WE'RE thrilled to acknowledge that our own Dave Heffernan has signed a new two-year contract renewal with Connacht, further extending his long and illustrious career with his home province.
Dave began his rugby journey in Heffernan Park and is an inspiration to all of us in Ballina RFC. He has represented his home club brilliantly over the years and we are indebted to him for all the joy, excitement and pride he has given us over the years.
He made his professional debut in March 2012. In the following 13 years he has made 212 appearances, putting him eighth in Connacht's all-time record appearances list.

Dave has also made international appearances at numerous levels, including the Ireland U20s, Wolfhounds, Emerging Ireland and Barbarians, and has earned seven caps for the senior Ireland team.

This season he has continued his good form as joint vice-captain of Connacht, with three tries in 12 appearances. His latest contract extension keeps him at Connacht until 2017, which will mark 15 years since his senior debut.

Connacht head coach Pete Wilkins says:
“Dave continues to prove himself as one of the key leaders in the playing group. He’s an ultimate professional who still has the same passion and drive to succeed, even with all he has achieved in his career. He’s proven that again this season with some of the best rugby of his career. His commitment to a further two years here is a great boost for the club.”