Laois player to captain Senior Cup team at famed rugby school

Rockwell College in Cashel has announced its captains for the upcoming Senior and Junior Cup rugby campaigns, and Laois will be proudly represented at the helm of the Senior Cup squad. 

Mateo Gutierrez, from Killenard, Co. Laois, will lead the Senior Cup side this season, with Aidan Russell of Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, appointed Vice-Captain. The announcement comes as preparations continue across the squad in advance of their opening fixture.

A boarding student at Rockwell, Gutierrez comes from a strong family connection to the school. His older brother previously attended Rockwell, while his younger brother and sister are currently students. 

Now in his third year on the Senior Cup team, he has impressed coaches and teammates alike with his maturity, commitment, and work ethic. He leads by example both in training and during matches and is highly respected by his peers. In addition to his rugby leadership, Mateo serves as a prefect in the boarding house, where he is recognised as a role model for younger students.

Mateo’s sporting journey began at Killenard National School, where he represented the school in Cumann na mBunscol competitions. He has also played underage rugby with Portarlington RFC, soccer with Emo Celtic, and featured in a Midlands soccer development squad. A multi-talented athlete, he also plays Gaelic football with O’Dempsey's GAA Club, where he has captained several underage teams.

The appointment of Mateo Gutierrez as Senior Cup captain is a proud moment for both Laois and Rockwell College, as he prepares to lead his team in one of the school’s most prestigious rugby competitions.

The Senior Cup team will begin their campaign on Wednesday, January 28.

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