It is with great pleasure, I have the honour of making you aware, that Leinster Rugby has named one of its trophies, after one our most esteemed, past members.
The ‘Chris Stapleton Memorial Cup’ will form part to the metro Leagues, awards, which where reformed last season. And have proved to be a massive success, within our own club and indeed the wider Leinster Rugby Family.
Chris was a founder member of Clondalkin, was instrumental in the success of Clondalkin Rugby Club, as leading light in the community of west Dublin.
Chris served on many of the clubs subcommittee, and was notably club president 1988-89.Chris epitomised the very ethos of club volunteerism, and was often to the lead in rebuilding and maintence of the club house, marking pitches , underage coaching and Committee Member. If fact there wasn’t one cap Chris wasn’t willing to wear.
It was often said if Chris didn’t know you , you hadn’t made it!!
His sons, Eamon and John , have been cornerstones of the club, for the last 40 years, indeed, playing in the first underage teams for CRFC.
Eamon , captained the Club , 1988-89, 1995-96 and 1999-00, and is still defining the years and plays the occasional game with the 4ths, instrumental in the team reaching this Saturdays league final. Eamon also has coached 1st and 2nd squads, as well coaching underage youth.
John, has had two distinguished, terms as president 2003-04 and 2010-11, and current member of the clubs committee, and was instrumental in kick starting the clubs Junior teams.
Chris s grandsons are now involved, in mini and youth sections of the club, and thus beginning the cycle we hope again.
The club would like to thank for LBIRFU, for the opportunity in this our 40th Season to recognise and remember the efforts such an important member and volunteer, and a family who are part of our past, our present and our future.
The league final will take place on Saturday in Foulkstown, where Clondalkin play Kilkenny in the league final KO 3.00pm 22nd March 2014, wishing both teams the very best of luck.
Yours in Rugby
Tom Duffy
President CRFC
