Andy Friend says Connacht is now a proven destination for any player hungry to play and hungry to prove they are good enough to represent Ireland.
Uncapped trio Tom Farrell, Jack Carty and Caolin Blade, as well as Bundee Aki and Ultan Dillane, were all named in Joe Schmidt's38-man Six Nations squad on Wednesday.
"A great day for them and a great day for Connacht" - A proud Andy Friend has been reflecting on the Westerners' five Ireland call-ups with @Darrenfrehill #RTErugby pic.twitter.com/GoSGuBD2g8
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) January 16, 2019
Friend heaped praise on the rookies, while also highlighting the environment out west that allows talented players to really show their worth.
"I'm absolutely delighted for all five of them," Friend told RTÉ Sport's Darren Frehill. "It's a great day for them and a great day for Connacht.
"Caolin, since the day I've arrived here, he's really impressed. When Kieran [Marmion] got injured, Bladey stepped up and there's been no looking back for him.
"It's going to be a great battle between Kieran and himself when Kieran does come back and that's what you want, you want that competition in the squad.
"I've been impressed with Jack's demeanour and his skill set. He's a calm, collected footballer.
"He's very considered a a young man and that's the way he plays his rugby. There's a lot to like about him and I know he's not going to look out of place if he gets that chance in an Irish jersey.
CONFIRMED | Connacht trio Jack Carty, Tom Farrell & Caolin Blade have all been named in the Ireland squad for the first time ahead of the @SixNationsRugby! 🇮🇪
— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) January 16, 2019
They'll be joined by internationals Bundee Aki and Ultan Dillane #StrongerInGreen ☘️
➡️ https://t.co/H6payP0jQQ pic.twitter.com/DX5C16gGyt
"Tom is a real handful to play against. We've played him at 12, we've played him at 13. He look confident at both. I'm really, really pleased for that man. He definitely deserves his opportunity too."
Friend has brought the feelgood factor back to the Sportsground since taking the reins last summer. The Australian took great pride in seeing his men get the Ireland call, and said the secret to their progression has been quite simple: they've played.
"One of the great things you get when you come here to Connacht is the opportunity to play. The only way you become a better footballer is by playing football.
"And what we're seeing with those selections is, come to Connacht, you'll get an opportunity, let the national coaches have a look at you and chances are, if you're good enough, you will get selected for your country."
