Former Leinster, Ireland & Toulouse lock Trevor Brennan presents the Bouclier trophy to Ally Brown (Men's 50s), Morgan Coghlan (Men's Open), Keagan Bradley (MXO), and Fiona O'Shea (Women's Open)
Ireland's national tag rugby teams won the inaugural "Bouclier de Brennan" on Sunday 13th October, overcoming the French national squads at Men's Open, Men's 50s, Mixed Open and Women's Open.
The tournament took place in Fronton, near Toulouse, and is the first-ever international tour involving French representive sides. Previously France has competed at Tag World Cups in 2018 and 2023, but had never hosted or travelled for an international series.
The series is named after Trevor Brennan, who supported the establishment of the international competition. Brennan represented Leinster, Ireland, and Toulouse in his professional career, winning two Heineken Cups with the latter. He lives and runs a number of businesses in Toulouse, and his three sons are professional rugbt players in the Top14.
Ireland won the Men's Open category 4 games to nil, but the series featured a number of tight encounters and prodigously talented French players. Morgan Coghlan took the MVP award by vote of the referees.
Ireland won the Mixed Open category 4 games to nil. After the first test saw a one-sided scoreline in Ireland's favour, greatly improved performances tightened the gap up to two points in the final test. Leo Wyer and Rebecca Conway took the MVP awards.
Ireland won the Women's Open category 4 games to nil. France's first-ever women's open team was well-coached and talented, and pushed Ireland hard in each test game. Megan Carroll took the MVP award.
Ireland won the Men's 50s category 2 games to 1, in a series which saw France's historic first win over Ireland and their first win over any ITF Board Member country in a test match. In typical Men's 50s style the games were tight and aggressive, but played in exemplary spirits by players with great respect for each other. Alex Synoud of France took the MVP award.
Interested in learning more about playing a higher level of tag, up to and including playing for Ireland? Email simon.bewley@tagrugby.ie for more information.
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