New publication shines a spotlight on Limerick's rugby heroes

A NEWLY published book, Limerick Lions: Limerick and the British and Irish Lions 1888–1988, offers rugby fans and historians a definitive account of the city’s extraordinary contribution to the famed touring side.

From the pioneering William Roche — the first Limerick-born Lion in 1924 — through to celebrated names like Tom Clifford, Tom Reid, and Gordon Wood, Limerick Lions documents the stories of nine remarkable men who proudly wore the famous jersey.

Between them, these players earned 109 Lions appearances and 18 Test caps, spanning historic tours to Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Canada, Namibia, and Kenya.

“You can’t tell the story of Irish rugby, or the Lions, without telling the story of Limerick,” says co-author Des Ryan.

“These men were not just players — they were heroes who carried the dreams of their clubs and city across the world.”

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Beyond on-field achievements, the book shares rarely-heard personal stories, including, a long-lost letter from the 1924 Lions tour, printed in full for the first time, William Roche’s remarkable WWII encounter with Rudolf Hess, Tom Clifford’s leadership, commemorated at Young Munster’s Tom Clifford Park, Tony Ward’s dual sporting achievements in both rugby and soccer, and Gerry McLoughlin’s rise from Lions prop to Mayor of Limerick

Written by Des Ryan and Stephen Ruschitzko and published by TTT Press, the book is available to purchase in O’Mahony’s Bookstore Limerick or online.

The authors drew on the support of players’ families and original archival material, providing fascinating insights into Lions tours before professionalism, when amateur players balanced everyday jobs with epic six-month journeys.

Limerick Lions: Limerick and the British and Irish Lions 1888–1988 is essential reading for anyone passionate about rugby history, Limerick sporting culture, or the enduring romance of the British and Irish Lions.