David O'Connor

Now in his late twenties, David O'Connor has been part of the Connacht set-up after progressing through the western province's academy structure. Born on 19 May 1995, the back-row forward has built a career around consistent involvement and the workmanlike qualities that flanker rugby demands. O'Connor's role within the Connacht squad has been to provide depth and dependable performance in a back-row where competition for places has steadily intensified. His game is centred on the breakdown, both clearing and competing for the ball, alongside the defensive contribution that any flanker is expected to deliver across an 80-minute shift. Connacht's identity as a side that has historically punched above its weight in Irish provincial rugby relies on players like O'Connor: locally-developed, deeply familiar with the squad's systems, and ready to contribute when called upon. The flanker has been part of the Connacht journey through United Rugby Championship campaigns and European competition, accruing the experience that comes with sustained involvement at professional level. As a member of the wider squad, his contribution extends beyond match minutes to setting the standards in training that the back-row group runs on. With the Connacht back-row continuing to evolve, O'Connor remains a trusted senior option in the wider squad picture.