Leinster rugby selection
GIVEN that sport has been temporarily put on hold for the past few weeks it was more than refreshing for rugby in Co. Wicklow to receive positive news about six youth players who have been selected on the Leinster under-18 girls extended squad.
Arklow RFC will have two representatives, Gráinne Flynn and Ava Kavanagh, while four Wicklow RFC players, Vicky Kinlan, Molly Flood, Ciara Brennan and Beth Roberts will represent Ashtown Lane.
Gráinne Flynn is a strong running centre/full back has been playing with Arklow since mini’s (her formative years spent sharing the pitch with boys where she stood out!)
Kavanagh is a hooker and began playing three years ago. She has improved hugely in the past 12 months. Initially the girls were sent to train with the South East girls panel for the past number of months. Given both are only 15 years old the exercise was viewed purely as an opportunity for them to gain experience. However, both have grasped the opportunity. Whilst it is an extended Leinster squad, both girls have an exciting future with two more years to play at this level.
ARFC and Wicklow RFC are exceptionally proud of the girls who, despite their talent, have worked hard to improve every aspect of their game to get to this level.
On a wider level this selection demonstrates the growth or underage girls’ rugby in both clubs with teams at under-18, 16, 14 and 12 levels going into the 2020-21 season.
The clubs always welcome new players so any girls interested in playing should check out the clubs’ Facebook pages or websites for a list of contacts.