Denis Buckley calls time on his Connacht career
Tight-head prop is second on Connacht’s all-time appearance list
Connacht's second most capped player ever is set to leave the province at the end of the season, after Denis Buckley confirmed he is bringing a 17-year career at the Dexcom Stadium to a close at the end of the season.
Buckley, who has made 275 appearances for his native province, said he is still "exploring potential opportunities" as to what he will do once he leaves, but says he believes it is time for him to move to pastures new.
“It’s hard to put into words what this place has meant to me," said Buckley, who will turn 36 in August.
"From pulling on the jersey for my first cap against Treviso in 2011 or to reaching 275 caps and becoming the second most capped player in the club’s history, every moment has been a privilege. To be part of this club’s journey and to share the pitch with so many great teammates, coaches, and staff has been something I’ll always be proud of," the Roscommon man said.
Buckley joined the Connacht Academy in 2009 and made his senior debut in September 2011, coming off the bench against Benetton Treviso in the PRO12. A cornerstone of the front row since then, he was a member of the wider squad that won the Guinness PRO12 in 2016.
He made his 100th appearance later that year, followed by his 200th cap in 2021. During his career he was also twice named in the PRO14/URC Team of the Season.
Connacht Rugby CEO Willie Ruane has paid tribute to Buckley’s longevity and dedication to the club, saying the club "owe him a debt of gratitude for all he has given rugby in Connacht".
"Since making his debut 15 years ago, he has embodied the grit and resilience that defines the club, and his 275 appearances since that day is a testament to his durability and professionalism.
"He should also be very proud of the impact he has made on his local club Creggs RFC and the wider Roscommon community, where he has helped to inspire a new generation of players.
"On behalf of the organisation I want to thank him for everything he has done for Connacht Rugby, and wish him, his wife Gill and young daughter Clodagh every happiness in the future.”
Connacht Rugby Head Coach Stuart Lancaster says that in the short time he has have worked with Buckley, he has been very impressed by his professionalism, and his qualities as a loosehead prop.
"To play 275 times for your home province is an incredible achievement, and a rare quality in professional rugby these days. It speaks volumes of his character and commitment to rugby in the West of Ireland, and I want to thank him for all the contributions he has made over his many years at the club and wish him and his family all the best for the future," he said.
As for Buckley, who is only topped by John Muldoon (327) in appearances for the province, he said the support of his family was a major part in the longevity of his Connacht career.
"A huge thank you to everyone behind the scenes who keep the wheels turning, and to the fans who have supported us through the highs and the lows — your passion never goes unnoticed and it means more than you know. I’d like to extend a special thank you to Creggs RFC — not only for introducing me to the game, but for the constant support behind the scenes, from my early days in underage and Connacht development squads right through my career.
"Most importantly, I want to thank my family for their constant support through every challenge and milestone along the way. And to my wife Gillie — thank you for everything you’ve sacrificed, for your patience, and for being such a steady support. I’m so excited for what the future holds for us, especially with the recent arrival of our beautiful daughter, Clodagh,” he said.