MUNSTER RUGBY OPPORTUNITY FOR CASTLEISLAND TEEN

AFTER learning the ropes and playing rugby for just one season at underage level, Castleisland teenager, Jordan Coffey impressed enough to be selected to try out for the Munster U-16 Development Squad.

Having only joined Castleisland RFC last year at the persuasion of club coach, Bill Horgan, Jordan took to the game ‘like a duck to water’ – as one close observer put it.

Taking it on the chin is second nature to Jordan by now as he already holds Kerry and Munster titles at his favourite sport, boxing.

Favourite sport ? Up to now that is. Jordan, a student at Castleisland Community College, has been advised to step out of the ring as part of his new regime in the Munster Rugby scheme of things.

Community college teacher, Doreen Killington said that the school is delighted for Jordan. “He’s a lovely young man and we’re very proud of him and delighted with the opportunities which are opening up for him,” she said.

Only recently Jordan got a text message from another Castleisland RFC coach, Denis Cronin with the invitation to join the Munster squad trials appropriate to his age group.

Jordan’s new sporting journey began under scrutiny last week at the University of Limerick pitch. He got through that phase and was invited back to the next session which was held at the Irish Independent Park in Cork.

It was after this try-out that he got the good news that he was selected to be part of the Munster Rugby Development Squad.

“We know he has a lot of hard work ahead of him to keep his place on this squad but he’s very dedicated to whatever he’s involved in. To say we are proud is an understatement,” said his beaming mom, Jennifer on behalf of herself and husband John.

“I’ve seen how he dedicates himself during the boxing season and if he applies himself to rugby in the same way – and with luck – he’ll make it through.

“He loves rugby and we hope for him it lasts as long as he wants it to.

“It’s great for the rugby club to have two players involved with Munster as Denis Cronin’s son, Dean has made it onto the Munster U-17 squad,” said Jennifer.

Photo by John Reidy The shape of things to come: Castleisland student, Jordan Coffey who has been taking part in trials for the Munster Rugby U-16 Development Squad. Jordan is pictured with a product of the Castleisland Community College woodwork room lathe.