The Journey of a Rugby Players

The Journey of a Rugby Players: Meet the Stars of Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC

Why Rugby Players Choose Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC

Rugby is more than just a sport, it’s a community, a passion, and a way of life. At Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC, every rugby player brings a unique background, skill set, and love for the game. Whether they are seasoned professionals or newcomers to the pitch, each rugby player contributes to the team’s success and the club’s welcoming atmosphere. Let’s take a closer look at the inspiring journeys of some of these dedicated athletes.

Meet the Rugby Players of Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC

James Petrie: A Rugby Player from Australia to Ireland

James Petrie began his rugby player career in Australia, playing for the Lennox Head Trojans. His journey took him to the UK, where he played for Quintins and Windsor RFC before moving to Ireland in 2019. Since joining Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC, James has become a key rugby player and even coaches the minis, helping to shape the next generation of rugby players.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby –  Just come along and have some fun.

Colman Stanley: A Dublin Rugby Player with a Passion for Journalism

Colman Stanley, a Dublin native and sports journalist, has been with the club since the 2015/16 season. He was introduced by friends and drawn to the club’s friendly atmosphere. As an experienced rugby player, he emphasises the importance of mastering ruck security and maintaining possession.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby – it’s not that difficult. Don’t give up possession cheaply, learn how to secure a ruck and you’ll be better than 95% of players.

David Henderson: A Rugby Player Dedicated to Teamwork

David Henderson is a dedicated rugby player from Ashford, County Wicklow. After playing at Balinteer St John’s, he returned to rugby and found a home at Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC. He values the club’s team spirit and encourages every rugby player to stay committed to training.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby – It’s not a sport that you can play half-hearted. If you’re sitting on the fence of commitment and dedication you’ll get knocked off it very quickly.

Eoin Crossan Murphy: A Rugby Player Focused on Growth

Eoin Crossan Murphy played for Clontarf RFC for 15 years before moving to Dundrum and joining Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC. He appreciates the strong club culture and advises aspiring rugby players to come down with a positive attitude.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby – Come down with a good attitude and you’re halfway there.

Joe O’Dwyer: A Rugby Player Transitioning from GAA

Joe O’Dwyer has a background in GAA, playing for Kilmacud Crokes before switching to rugby. He started playing last year and has been loving it since. Joe highlights the supportive environment at Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC and urges new players to give rugby a shot.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby – Just do it, you won’t regret it

Martin Woods: A Rugby Player Who Found the Sport Later in Life

Martin Woods grew up in Louth and Monaghan, initially playing GAA and soccer. At 39, he decided to pursue his passion for rugby and joined Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC. Martin believes it’s never too late to become a rugby player and values the club’s inclusivity.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby – Just go and do it if it’s something you’re thinking about. I regret not taking it up when I arrived in Dublin first. I could have had 10 even 15 more years under my belt playing. You’re never too old!

Michael O’Sullivan: A Rugby Player with International Experience

Michael O’Sullivan, a Dublin native, played youth rugby with De La Salle Palmerston before joining Sligo RFC and later RC Linz in Austria. He returned to Ireland and joined Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC, where he appreciates the friendly and welcoming environment.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby – Getting in touch and showing up to your first training session is half the battle. It’s never too late to get involved and no matter your ability there is a level out there for you.

Pádraig Shanahan: A Rugby Player from Kerry to Dublin

Pádraig Shanahan moved to Dublin from Kerry and joined Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC through his brother Daniel. He values the strong camaraderie within the club and encourages everyone to experience the bonds created through rugby.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby – Stop looking and do it, just get up and try it and you’ll be hooked…it’s a unique sport that gels people together quickly and all sizes and experiences are very welcome in SRRFC

Erik Davila Kenny: A Legacy Rugby Player at Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC

Erik Davila Kenny started playing rugby at ten, inspired by his father. He has played for Barnhall, DIT, and DCU before returning to Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC. Erik highlights the club’s community spirit and emphasises that rugby is for everyone.

Bill Huckstep: A Rugby Player with a Team-First Mentality

Bill Huckstep, originally from New Zealand, has been in Ireland for over a decade. Growing up playing rugby in a country where it’s a way of life, he brought his skills to Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC, where he values teamwork and sportsmanship.

Advice for people looking to get into rugby – Give it a nudge. Score tries, doll out crunching tackles and hang out with the boys after for a few beers.

What Makes Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC the Perfect Club for Rugby Players?

Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC is home to a diverse group of rugby players who bring energy, skill, and dedication to the field. The club welcomes rugby players from all backgrounds, from seasoned veterans to those new to the sport. The team spirit, inclusivity, and strong coaching support make it an ideal place to grow as a rugby player.

The Benefits of Becoming a Rugby Player at Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC

If you’re considering taking up rugby, joining a club like Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC can be a game-changer. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, make new friends, or compete at a higher level, the club provides the perfect environment to thrive. From experienced mentors to passionate newcomers, every rugby player at the club has a story worth telling.

Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC is more than just a team; it’s a family. If you’ve ever thought about becoming a rugby player or rekindling your love for the game, this club is the perfect place to start. Come down to a training session, meet the rugby players, and experience firsthand what makes rugby such a beloved sport worldwide.

Two Rugby Teams, One Club, Home to Passionate Rugby Players

No matter your skill level, rugby players of all backgrounds are welcome at Stillorgan-Rathfarnham RFC, a rugby club in South Dublin that values teamwork, passion, and performance. Whether you’re an experienced athlete or just starting, our club provides a supportive environment for all rugby players to thrive.

1st XV – Metro Division 5

The 1st XV – Metro Division 5  rugby players are highly skilled and bring a wealth of experience to the field. Many have played at the school level or in competitive men’s rugby leagues, showcasing their commitment to the sport. This team is ideal for rugby players looking to push their performance and compete at a strong level.

2nd XV – Metro Division 8

The 2nd XV – Metro Division 8 rugby players come from diverse backgrounds, making it the perfect squad for those returning to rugby, switching from other sports, or starting fresh. Whether you’ve played before or are new to men’s rugby in Dublin, this team welcomes rugby players who are eager to develop their skills, enjoy the game, and become part of a strong rugby community.