Portlaoise RFC U/18s claim Leinster Youths School Cup 

The Portlaoise U/18 team ended their time as members of Portlaoise RFC’s Youth Section on a high by capturing the Leinster Youths School Cup. Their success bodes well for the future of the club’s adult sides which depend greatly on the youth players coming through the system.

In a facebook post the club noted, “The majority of this team would have joined the club at U/6 level. Winning a cup was hard to come by over the years but coaches and managers stuck by these players and made sure they developed into a cup winning team.

“Over their 12 years in Portlaoise the players would have enjoyed many a trip including Alton Towers Manchester, Thorpe Park London , Disneyland Paris, Delphi Adventure Centre, Breffni House resort Mayo and most recently witnessing the Ireland U/20’s beat France in Musgrave Park, an Ireland team that went on to win the Grand Slam in 2023.

“Of course there were the multiple blitz’s away in Seapoint and Shannon and as always the U/10 game in the RDS is a notable memory.

“stone was left unturned in the development of these young players as they now move on to play adult rugby with the club. The coaches and managers of the team can only hope that the players enjoyed their time playing in Portlaoise RFC youth’s section and that they were influenced in a positive way and they have a strong sense of belonging to the club.

“No matter what happens, the lads have made friends forever and hopefully they will continue to represent Portlaoise in the years ahead.

“Thanks to the ‘Mammy’ of the group for all your help over the years, of course that’s Laura Mahar and thanks to Mick Comer for being this year’s physio.

“The managers and coaches would like to thank all the sponsors over the years who include JP Fitzpatrick Solicitors, Paddy Bergin Woodcraft, Martin Reddin Ltd, A1 Metal Recycling Ltd, Dunkeen Oil, Hughes Pharmacy and Rigid Packaging.

“A special mention has to go to Jim Kenny (RIP). Jim was an integral part of our backroom team where he took on the role of physio. Jim will always be missed and hopefully he was looking down on us as the team achieved their goal.”

Well done to the following players whose exploits were recognised at the recent awards night.

U17’s -

Most improved players, Nathan Flanagan, Aaron Kingston;

Players player of the year, Eoin Rooney;

Player of the year, Daniel Thornton;

U18’s -

Most improved players, Adam Glynn, PJ Larkin;

Players player of the year, Dara Phelan;

Player of the year, Mathew Coonan;

Pat Kelleher Shield, Dylan Kelly