Ireland have poached yet another South African schoolboy talent.
Centre Rourke O’Sullivan, who matriculated from Michaelhouse last year after representing the Sharks at the U18 Craven Week, represented Ireland in a U19 clash against Wales at Cardiff Arms Park last weekend.
O’Sullivan, who has joined Connacht’s academy, is the third member of the 2025 school-leaving class to make the move to Ireland.
Former Rondebosch and SA U18 flank Josh Neill linked up with Leinster earlier this year and has already featured for Ireland U20, while Bishops utility back Rynard Gordon has joined Ulster’s academy.
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Michaelhouse posted the following from Rourke’s mother, Siobhan, on their Facebook page:
Rourke has always had a passion for rugby and a drive to succeed. Playing club rugby for Pirates in Johannesburg exposed him to tough rugby and coaching, and his move to Michaelhouse in B-Block was a game changer.
To be in a school that embraces a holistic approach, where rugby is part of a broader system that helps boys hone their craft, grow as individuals, and being surrounded by like-minded boys and coaches supported both on and off the field, has really helped Rourke.
Having an Irish passport opened doors, but the right connections within the IRFU, especially through James Fleming, were invaluable. In July of his matric year, Rourke gave up his holiday and played in the IQ Rugby (Irish Qualified) series, giving him exposure within the IRFU programme. It took determination and sacrifice to move to Ireland rather than follow his friends to UCT or Stellenbosch.
He signed an Academy contract with Connacht Rugby, arrived mid-season without knowing anyone, and faced challenges – like not having accommodation for the first ten days!
Adulting hasn’t been easy, missing home, missing friends and doing everything on his own, but playing rugby five days a week and representing at the highest level of playing for one’s country is his dream, and the sacrifices have been worthwhile.
The call-up to the IRFU U19 team is a dream come true. After Cardiff, he now looks forward to two matches against France in the coming weeks. He will begin his studies at the University of Galway in September while continuing with Connacht Rugby. Hopefully this is the start of great things.
The post SA schoolboy makes Ireland U19 debut appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Ireland have poached yet another South African schoolboy talent.
The post SA schoolboy makes Ireland U19 debut appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
