Connacht chief lauds Bradley's efforts

Bradley departs The Sporstground at the close of the current campaign having taken over in 2003 and his chief executive has praised his contribution during his time in charge.

"Michael has six-and-a-half years with us and he's brought an awful lot to Connacht Rugby," said Gerry Kelly.

"Michael's leadership and guidance over those last six-and-a-half seasons have certainly helped to form our minds as to how we might go forward in the future."

Connacht finished ninth in the 12-team Celtic League in Bradley's first year in charge but have since come bottom of the Magners League in each of the last two seasons.

They are currently propping up the Magners League standings two thirds of the way through the 2009/10 campaign but Kelly has no doubt that improvements have been made both on and off the field.

The province have produced a number of internationals at all levels of the game, while Bradley has coached Ireland A to Churchill Cup success and led Connacht to the knockout stages of the European Challenge Cup on no fewer than five occasions.

"Through a difficult period, he has worked very hard to improve the professionalism of Connacht Rugby, both on and off the field," added Kelly.

"There have been a number of highs over the years and the big wish for us all is that we have as many highs as possible for the remainder of this season."