Ireland U18 Clubs Squad named for Italy International
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Ireland’s rising rugby stars are gearing up for an international challenge, as the Ireland U18 Clubs Squad, sponsored by PwC, prepares for a trip to Italy. The squad, representing clubs from all four Irish Provinces and the IQ Rugby pathway, will begin their preparations at Clongowes Wood College on October 27th before facing Italy in Cosenza on Saturday, November 1st at 2:30 PM local time.
The selection, announced by Head Coach Johne Murphy, recognizes a cohort of players who have consistently demonstrated extraordinary skill and dedication throughout the season. According to Murphy, the players earned their spots through “strong performances in the Interprovincial Series and Clubs representative fixtures.” This tour represents a crucial growth possibility for these young athletes as they continue their rugby journeys.
Squad Breakdown: Provincial depiction
The squad showcases the depth of talent emerging from across Ireland, with critically important representation from Leinster, Munster, and Connacht, alongside players from Ulster. Here’s a detailed look at the selected players and their affiliated clubs:
- Leinster Rugby: Aidan McGovern (Boyne RFC/St.Mary’s Diocesan School),Alan Higgins (Skerries RFC/Skerries Community College),Cillian McElwee (Kilkenny RFC/St. Kieran’s College Kilkenny), David Cron (DLSP RFC/St.Columba’s College), Franklin Onwuzulumba (Clondalkin RFC/Moyle Park College), Harry Heagney (Clontarf FC/glenstal Abbey), Jack Power (MU Barnhall RFC/Lucan Community College), James Walls (Skerries RFC/Skerries Community College), Joshua O’Keefe (newbridge RFC/Patricians Secondary School, Newbridge), Tadg Young (Suttonians RFC/st.Fintan’s High School)
- Munster Rugby: Callum Tutty (Dungarvan RFC), Daniel ward (Bantry Bay RFC), Dave Sargent (Tralee RFC)
- connacht Rugby: Cathal Moffatt (Sligo RFC/Sligo Grammar), Cian Hynes (Tuam RFC/st. Jarlath’s College), Second Walsh (Corinthians RFC/Coláiste Éinde, galway), Darragh Glennon (Buccaneers RFC/Marist College, Athlone), JJ Phillips (Galwegians RFC/Coláiste Iognáid, Galway), OisÃn O’Donoghue (Buccaneers RFC/Marist College, Athlone), Reuben Flynn (Corinthians RFC/Cistercian College, Roscrea)
- Ulster Rugby: Sam Harper (Omagh Accies RFC/Omagh Academy), Tyrese Dunlop (Ballymena RFC)
- IQ Rugby: Charles Shortall (Rugby Club Massy Essonne), Dylan Jenkins (Saracens)
Management Team ready to Support
Supporting the players is a highly experienced management team, led by Head Coach Johne Murphy. The full team includes:
- Johne Murphy – Head Coach
- brett Wilkinson – Assistant Coach
- Ricky Andrew – Assistant Coach
- Anthony McKibben – Team Manager
- James O’Sullivan – Athletic Development Coach
- Foster Horan – Team Physio
- Dr. padraigh Sheeran – Team Doctor
- Dylan Holmes – Team Analyst
- Tom Nyham – Team Logistics
This dedicated team will provide the players with the necessary support to perform at their best during the upcoming international. The tour to Italy promises to be a valuable experience for the entire squad, fostering growth and development as they represent Ireland on the international stage.
