Deeny is glad he rediscovered love of rugby

COMING from Wexford town and attending St Peter’s College, Brian Deeny always felt like he was up against it in terms of making a breakthrough in rugby.

The oval ball was nowhere to be seen in a school where GAA dominated, so Deeny got his rugby fix with Wexford Wanderers.

Peter’s had a strong football team and it wasn’t long before the Wexford minors came calling after Deeny impressed.

Just as it looked like rugby would be parked came a surprise offer to play Sevens with Ireland.

“When you’re coming out of the club system, you probably wouldn’t be as recognised as some of the schools lads,” said Deeny. “I got dropped, I never played Under-18 Schools or Clubs. Things like that drive you on because you’re more jealous.

“I was playing county minor with Wexford. I was more focused on that. Simon Broughton and Mark Butler asked me to play for the (Ireland) Under-18 Sevens. I appreciate that, them giving me a chance to come back.

“I came back and played well enough, and got selected for the Irish Under-18s that went over to Lithuania. I enjoyed myself, maybe found my love for rugby again and focused more on rugby.”

Deeny hasn’t looked back since. The Leinster Academy lock got a taste for the big time with the Ireland Under-20s last season and is set to play a much more prominent part this year, starting tomorrow against Scotland at Irish Independent Park.

New Ross native Tadhg Furlong has become the poster boy for Wexford rugby. Deeny knows if he can follow his lead, he will be doing well.