CJ STANDER’S OUTSTANDING debut season in an Ireland jersey has been recognised by his fellow players after he was voted the IRUPA Players’ Player of the Year for 2016.

The Munster forward collected the award at the 14th annual awards ceremony, which was staged this evening in Dublin.

Stander has been a shining light during an otherwise disappointing season for the southern province while he made a major impression on the international stage for his adopted country.

The 26-year-old made his Ireland debut against Wales in the Six Nations and marked the occasion with a man of the match performance. He continued his rich vein of form throughout the championship and scored his first try against Italy.

“I’m delighted to win this award,” Stander said. “Receiving recognition from my fellow peers is the ultimate accolade. I will remember this season fondly, from winning my first cap, to scoring my first international try and ultimately winning this award.”

Stander also received the Supporters’ Player of the Year award.

Meanwhile, Josh van der Flier was crowned the Nevin Spence Young Player of the Year after a stellar season for both Leinster and Ireland.

It's been a memorable breakthrough season for the Leinster flanker. Colm O'Neill / INPHO Colm O'Neill / INPHO / INPHO

The young flanker enjoyed a meteoric rise during the 2015/16 campaign as he established himself in Leo Cullen’s side and then made his international debut at Twickenham.

Ronan O’Gara was inducted in the IRUPA Hall of Fame, Jamie Heaslip won Try of the Year for his effort against Italy while Sene Naoupu was recognised as the Women’s Player of the Year.

Award winners:

• IRUPA Players’ Player of the Year: CJ Stander (Munster)
• Nevin Spence Young Player of the Year: Josh van der Flier (Leinster)
• Try of the Year: Jamie Heaslip (Ireland v Italy, Six Nations)
• Vodafone Medal for Excellence: Isaac Boss (Leinster)
• Hall of Fame 2016: Ronan O’Gara
• Supporters’ Player of the Year: CJ Stander (Munster)
• Powerscourt Hotel and Spa Moment of the Year: Connacht’s victory at Thomond Park
• Women’s Fifteens Player of the Year: Sene Naoupu
• Women’s Sevens Player of the Year: Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe
• Zurich Contribution to Irish Society: Niall Breslin.

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