Argentina star Contepomi, who helped the Pumas finish in third place at the World Cup last month, has been a key figure for Leinster during his four years at the province.

The 30-year-old was shortlisted for the 2007 International Rugby Board player of the year award, which was won by South Africa winger Bryan Habana.

Garryowen were voted club of the year and the Tom Rooney award for making an exceptional contribution to the game went to former Ireland and Lions prop Phil Orr.

Rooney was also manager of the Grand Slam winning Ireland Under-20 side that scooped the Dave Guiney perpetual award for team of the year.

Hooker Ken Kennedy and free-scoring winger Alan Duggan were inducted into the hall of fame.