Irish born former rugby professional Paul O’Connell is Munster through and through. What’s more, as well as a strong career with that domestic side, he also had the great accolade of leading the British & Irish Lions as captain during their memorable test series in South Africa in 2009. Born and raised in Limerick in Ireland, Paul played in the second row of the pack and was also a top swimmer in his earlier days. It was though the ranks at Munster that he progressed as a professional, and on his debut for Ireland he scored a great try against Wales in 2002. Just three years later he toured with the Lions and was one of the most acclaimed players in world rugby, often being likened to the mighty Martin Johnson.

With his club side, Paul won many trophies including the Heineken Cup in 2006 after beating Biarritz, and in 2006 he picked up the great individual honour of being the only northern hemisphere player to pick up a nomination for IRB player of the year. In 2008 Paul was a key part in Munster wining Heineken Cup glory and just year later he was also instrumental in Ireland’s historic Six Nations Grand Slam triumph. In 2012 was when Paul was O’Connell was installed as Ireland captain for the 2012 Six Nations and put in some great performances in the ensuing tournament. As such, should you be looking for a sporting star to inspire or motivate audiences with his great after dinner speeches, Paul O’Connell is a fine choice.