Irish dream beckons
T O W N S V I L L E ’ S D e c l a n Maguire will soon chase his professional rugby dream in Ireland.
Maguire, 17, has signed with Northern Ireland’s Bangor Rugby Club, a feeder side for Ireland’s iconic Pro 14 club Ulster.
Ulster are one of four Irish teams to play in the Pro 14, which features professional teams from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Italy and South Africa.
Maguire, who is captain of the Cathedral School’s open rugby team, got his spot at Bangor thanks to contacts within the Australian Stockman Rugby Union program, which helps players from regional areas gain access to development opportunities.
Maguire enjoyed a breakout year which included representing the North Queensland open schoolboys team and winning the under- 17 Townsville and Districts Rugby Union grand final with Brothers.
Maguire was also named the TDRU’s best back for his age group.
“It’s a wonderful oppor- tunity for me to experience a new style of rugby, even a totally new culture,” he said.
“I feel very privileged to be given the chance to focus on playing the game that I love.
“Ireland is an awesome spot.
“I’ve watched a few Ulster rugby games and I’m looking forward to experience playing over there.”
Cathedral rugby coach John Rauch, a former Queensland schoolboys coach, said Maguire had been handed a massive opportunity.
“It is a great opportunity for Declan and whether he succeeds at reaching the professional level or not, it’s the opportunity that’s important,” he said.
“It’s up to him to make the most of it. If he’s in that academy world, it will be a pretty high standard.
“He’s a talented footballer. I think he will rise to whatever standard he plays at, he has a great attitude and he is a good leader with the respect of his peers.”
Stockman Rugby spokesman Shaun Mackin said Bangor would be a perfect fit for Maguire.
“There are a lot of people in Bangor RFC who will look out for Declan and integrate him into what is going on,” he said.
“Depending on his per- formances and ability, he may spend some time with the Ulster Academy straight away, but that’s up to the rugby guys over there.
“We feel very privileged to be involved in this and can’t wait to see where it leads.”
Maguire said he hoped to see more regional players follow his lead and keep their minds open to any rugby opportunities.
“Something like this is a great idea for country players who want to play overseas,” he said.
“I’ll head over early next year after school finishes and aim to put some size on in the off- season.”