Tommy Bowe's outstanding season has been recognised by his peers with the Ulster wing picking up the IRUPA player of the year award.

Bowe received the honour at a reception in UCD tonight, capping a fine year that began in bitter disappointment.

Bowe was ommited from Eddie O'Sullivan's World Cup squad but his stellar performances for Ulster on both the domestic and European stages led to a recall for the Six Nations.

"After missing out on selection for the World Cup, the season seemed to just get better and better for me personally culminating in winning back my place on the Ireland team," explained Bowe, who had been shortlisted alongside Eoin Reddan and Jamie Heaslip.

"This has topped it all off as it is the ultimate award in Ireland and I take great pleasure in winning it as it comes from the ones who really matter, the players."

2008 Award Winners

Players' Player of the Year: Tommy Bowe

Unsung Hero: Andy Dunne

Try of the Year: Rob Kearney - Ireland v Scotland
 
Newcomer of the Year: Cian Healy