Dave Kearney to Leave Leinster Rugby

Leinster and Ireland back Dave Kearney to leave Leinster at the end of the season.

Kearney has, to date, won 185 caps for Leinster since his debut against Dragons RFC in May 2009, and has also represented Ireland on 19 occasions.

He has scored 55 tries in blue and a further five tries in green, while winning the Heineken Champions Cup, Amlin Cup and six PRO12/14 trophies.

Kearney started his rugby with Dundalk RFC and represented Lansdowne FC in the All-Ireland League and together with brother Rob, was part of the Ireland Six Nations winning team of 2014 and part of the Rugby World Cup squad in 2015.

"It’s been nearly 14 years to the day since I first had the privilege of wearing the Leinster Rugby jersey for the first time.

"As I reflect on my career, the overriding feeling I get is that of gratitude.

"Walking through the doors of Leinster rugby to join the academy in 2008, I never could have dreamt I’d still be here almost 15 years on. To have had such a long career playing for the team I grew up supporting, as well as representing my country has been a dream come true.

"It’s been an incredible journey, filled with some of the most special moments of my life, ones that I’ll cherish deeply. There have been plenty of challenges along the way, ups and downs, but I wouldn’t change a thing.

"I’m going to enjoy every moment I have during my last few weeks as Leinster a player and I’m going to do all I can to help this team finish the season on a high..."