I felt it appropriate to pen a missive to our Munster supporters at the beginning of this my year of presidency. I regard it as a great honour to be elected as your President, one, which I value deeply, and I hope I can fulfil my duties in a manner which will enhance the position as titular head of the Munster Branch which you who ere recognised throughout the world as the best supporters of any rugby team, follow and support so faithfully.

I am sure you have all followed our summer signings and expect that you are relishing the prospect of seeing the 2003/2004 squad display their capabilities throughout the Celtic League-Cup and Heineken Cup. Now that the fixtures have been announced you can plan your itinerary and I hope that the marvellous performances which we have witnessed over the past years will replicate themselves.

On a personal level, now that I have finally left the field of play (perhaps not before time, I hear you say), I wish to offer every fibre of my being in support of Alan Gaffney, Brian Hickey, Jerry Holland, our medical team and trainers and our squad in their efforts to win all competitions but, in particular, that we may finally conquer Europe.

Last season, for the first time ever, I personally witnessed unacceptable behaviour at an airport. Although it was an isolated incident, this sort of behaviour could well tarnish the great name which you have deservedly earned and which is so uncharacteristic of Munster supporters. I would hope that should these same people repeat these scenes, that our own supporters would show an awareness that might neutralise their effect thus maintaining the good name of our Munster family.

I wish you all well for the summer and for the season and hope that you will continue your unequalled good humour and unqualified support for our team.

Dr Len Harty President Munster Branch IRFU 2003/2004.