PLAYERS from Leinster have been showing their support for departing defence coach Kurt McQuilkin by shaving or dying their hair ahead of the new rugby season.
McQuilkin, a New Zealander who played for Ireland in the 1990s, is having to return to his native land for undisclosed personal reasons, but is in need of a helping hand along his way.
Players such as Ireland internationals Cian Healy and Devin Toner will take to the pitch with an unfamiliar look this Friday in Leinster’s seasonal opener against Treviso having undergone their transformations on Tuesday.
First dye results are in... Cian and Cian. #LRShaveorDye (link: https://t.co/8UaZM94GTT) #slimshadys pic.twitter.com/93AnO7q5tm
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) August 30, 2016
Please donate towards a great cause! #LRShaveorDye (link: https://t.co/i5bceXvsgM) pic.twitter.com/NHvXRPeK3J
— Ian Nagle (@iannagle) August 30, 2016
Finally bit the bullet, any help for Kurt would be greatly appreciated #LRShaveorDye https://t.co/GKHMOVXbJZ pic.twitter.com/MuBgZHjW71
— Devin Toner (@DevinToner4) August 30, 2016
Shave or Dye for a great mans family, so I shaved and Dyed https://t.co/bnNC7NgcBZ pic.twitter.com/5VJzFAM4xs
— Sean O' Brien (@SeanOBrien1987) August 30, 2016
Meanwhile, Munster legend Paul O’Connell has shown his respect by auctioning a signed painting to add to the cause.
Superb gesture by @shanemdesigns - signed Paul O'Connell painting for #LRShaveorDye Auction https://t.co/H6t9qlf6gr pic.twitter.com/kFcRDVbyNK
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) August 30, 2016
Former Leinster player McQuilkin was considered the brains behind Leinster’s commendable defensive record last season, having conceded fewer tries than any other team in the Pro12.
Leinster Head Coach Leo Cullen said: "This is very sad news for Kurt and his family and our priority is supporting Kurt in his decision as best we can.
#LRShaveorDye @leinsterrugby pic.twitter.com/pcIgh7KvLz
— Jack McGrath (@jackmc100) August 30, 2016
Anyone else think @MikeRoss03 and @ProperChurch are pulling this off?! #LRShaveorDye pic.twitter.com/xH97pMOMsD
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) August 30, 2016
"He will head back home with our very best wishes in very trying circumstances and with the thanks of everyone at Leinster Rugby for his stellar contribution over the last 12 months.
"Right now our focus is on Kurt and ensuring that his move back home is as seamless as possible."
All proceeds from their ‘shave or dye’ fundraising campaign will be distributed to the McQuilkin family to help them through a difficult period.
