Yet, despite making the bold decision to up sticks after 10 happy years and take up residency in the West Country, he feels the opportunity to create some more Champions Cup memories is very strong.
The 30-year-old lock has quickly made himself at home at The Rec since agreeing a three-year deal in April. He celebrated a first Premiership try in last weekend's loss to Bristol, and demonstrated his passion for his new cause.
It took a soul-searching little having been born and raised in Dublin, and knowing that the annual trophy-chasing Irishmen would be again fighting for more silverware this season. But he felt that if he was going to take up a new playing challenge entering a crucial time in his career, Bath ticked every box when it came to promise, potential and solid foundations.
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