Longford's Shane McGuigan called into Leinster Rugby select U ...

16 Dec 2023

Longford Leader

Longford Rugby Club are proud to hear that Shane McGuigan, a member of the Longford U-17 team, will be joining fellow club man, Yaw Appiah, in the Leinster U-18 side on Wednesday evening for a game against Newbridge College Senior Cup team.

Shane, who hails from Aughnagarron, Granard, has been a member of the Rugby club since he was six years old, starting in the mini’s and progressing through the youth ranks.

Shane's talent and dedication to the sport have been evident throughout his rugby playing at Longford Rugby Club.

He has been an ever-present figure in the team and has consistently demonstrated his ability, strength and determination to overcome the opposition. His coaches recognised his abilities and have deployed him in various positions over the years, to neutralise opposition players.

Attending Wilson Hospital School in Multyfarnham, for his secondary schooling, Shane benefited greatly from the additional rugby opportunities. He has showcased his power and rugby intelligence while playing for the junior side and currently playing with the senior team, despite still only being in transition year.

Shane has proven himself against his own club teammates, many of whom are also playing with St. Mel’s College rugby team, in local club and school challenge games against Wilson's Hospital. In the most recent outing against his Longford Rugby Club U-17 side, Shane opted to play for his club team!

Shane's exceptional performances caught the attention of the Leinster Midlands area development squad coaches, and he was invited to participate in their Shane Horgan group last season.

Over the past 12 months, he consistently demonstrated his skill set, power, and ability to dominate the opposition from the number 8 position. Coaches have praised his development and growth during his time with the Midlands side. It was no surprise to his club coaches that he would continue to impress.

Recently, Shane stood out among players from all the Leinster area development squads during a blitz at Presentation College Bray. As a result, he was selected to represent a Leinster team in an interprovincial blitz held at the IRFU high-performance centre in Blanchardstown. Playing against Munster and Ulster, Shane's performances helped secure two victories for Leinster.

Shane's impressive performances have earned him an invitation to join the Leinster under 18's team as they prepare for the upcoming season. On Wednesday night next he will make his U-18 debut in the Leinster jersey as he lines up against Newbridge College.

All at Longford Rugby Club are immensely proud of Shane's achievements and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavours with Leinster Rugby.

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