The New York City Friends of Munster Fundraising Dinner took place at the New York Athletic Club on Wednesday, September 9th, bringing together almost 300 guests for a special evening celebrating Munster Rugby, Irish heritage, community and philanthropy.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the New York Friends of Munster Award to Michael J. Dowling, CEO Emeritus of Northwell Health. 

A proud Limerick native and Irishman, Michael was recognised for his outstanding career in healthcare leadership and his contribution to the wider community.

Munster Rugby legend Paul O’Connell was also in attendance as a special guest, joining supporters, business leaders, alumni and friends of the province.

Supporting Rugby in Munster

The annual dinner raises vital funds to support community rugby throughout Munster, with a particular focus on increasing participation among young people and strengthening grassroots development.

Since its inception in 2018, the event has supported Club Community Rugby Officers, school blitzes and tournaments, coach education workshops and equipment grants for clubs. This support has helped thousands of children access rugby and provided emerging and isolated clubs with valuable resources to develop the game.

Munster Legends Meet Young Players in New York

As part of the wider Munster Rugby visit to New York, more than 60 young players aged between four and 16 took part in a special training session at Lansdowne Rugby Club in Yonkers, led by Colm McMahon, Head of Rugby Development.

Paul O’Connell, Dave Kilcoyne, Barry Murphy and Oli Jager were also in attendance, giving the young players the opportunity to train alongside some of the province’s most recognisable rugby figures.

Continuing the Connection

The New York Friends of Munster Committee continues to support grassroots rugby in both Munster and New York. Through its partnership with Play Rugby USA, 2026 marked the third year that two young players and a coach travelled to Ireland to attend the Munster Rugby School of Excellence at Rockwell College.

The event remains an important part of Munster Rugby’s international fundraising programme, bringing the Munster family together in New York while supporting the next generation of players and the continued development of grassroots rugby.