Westport's rugby rise continues as Sweeney selected for Ireland
Westport's growing reputation as a breeding ground for elite rugby talent has received another boost
It’s great,” Ryder said. “It’s such a good representation of the club and the girls coming through. It’s unreal for Kitty as a player and for her development, but it’s also brilliant for Westport. There are so many girls coming through now and representing the green jersey.”
Ryder’s own journey has taken her from the west of Ireland to the heart of Leinster rugby, where she now works developing the women’s game. Despite her move east, her Connacht roots remain strong.
“I still play for Connacht,” she explained. “Working with Leinster is a dream job, helping get more girls into rugby, but every summer I go back and put on the Connacht jersey – my home jersey.”
Looking ahead, Ryder’s ambitions remain firmly tied to her province. “To win an Interpro with Connacht is the goal,” she said. “This summer is really exciting with international players coming back. Everyone loves the Interpros – it’s always such a great competition.”
Back in Westport, the game continues to flourish. Speaking from Barnhall, where another busy day of sevens rugby was unfolding, Ryder reflected on the club that shaped her.
“My years in Westport Rugby Club were amazing. It played such a big role in where I am today,” she said. “It’s unreal to see the growth, even hearing about it from Dublin. And with Sacred Heart as well, it’s great to see girls out there enjoying the same experiences I had.”
With players like Sweeney now following in her footsteps, Ryder’s legacy in Westport rugby is already clear—and still growing.
No comments:
Post a Comment