Munster
If you were compiling a list of the great rugby grounds of the world, Thomond Park would have to be somewhere near the top. Home of Munster Rugby and sitting in Limerick, this is a ground where the atmosphere isn't an optional extra — it is part of the experience.
Thomond Park has been Munster's home since 1934 and has witnessed some remarkable occasions, but two in particular have become part of rugby folklore. In 1978 Munster famously defeated the All Blacks, while in 2003 came the extraordinary European Cup victory over Gloucester, better known as the 'Miracle Match'.The old Thomond Park was redeveloped between 2007 and 2008, but one of the cleverest things about the redevelopment was that the architects didn't try to turn it into another anonymous enclosed bowl. The new stadium was specifically designed to retain the atmosphere and the close relationship between spectators and players.
It worked.
The present stadium holds around 25,100, following a reduction in the East Terrace to improve comfort and safety, and despite the redevelopment it has retained much of the character that made the old ground famous.
And then there are the supporters.
Munster have a reputation for being among the most passionate and knowledgeable rugby supporters anywhere, and there is something rather special about hearing a full Thomond Park singing before, during and after a match. The famous tradition of supporters observing almost total silence while an opposing kicker takes a shot at goal adds another dimension. Then the noise returns.
The stadium isn't completely enclosed, either, which is another deliberate part of its character. The redevelopment retained visual and acoustic connections with the surrounding city rather than creating a sealed-off bowl. Even the designers noted that the sounds of the neighbourhood and traffic form part of the distinctive Thomond Park atmosphere.Getting there is reasonably straightforward. Thomond Park is only around 2.6km from Limerick's Colbert railway station, and the club describes it as a short walk from the city centre. There is no matchday parking at the stadium, so using city-centre parking or public transport makes more sense.
One of the most famous occasions in the new stadium came almost immediately after its redevelopment, when Munster hosted the All Blacks in 2008. It was an extraordinary way to open the new ground, and while the All Blacks eventually salvaged a draw with a late penalty, the occasion demonstrated that the new Thomond Park had retained the intimidating atmosphere of its predecessor.
Admission
Prices vary by opponent and competition, but recent URC fixtures have started at around €22.50 for adults, with junior tickets from €11 and family packages from €50. Bigger matches can cost more, and some fixtures sell out well in advance.
Thomond Park isn't the newest or largest stadium in European rugby, and that really isn't the point.
It is a ground with history, tradition and an atmosphere that has survived a major redevelopment. You can build new stands, install modern facilities and increase the capacity, but you can't manufacture what Thomond Park has.
Some rugby grounds are places where rugby matches are played.
Thomond Park is a place where rugby happens.
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