There was a sense of honour and delight in Portlaoise RFC when the news broke on Friday that club member, Cian Butler had been selected on the Ireland U-18 Clubs squad for the upcoming two-match series against Italy.
Head Coach Jamie Kirk selected 27 players to travel to Pedua in Northern Italy ahead of the opening match against Italy U-18s at Eugenio Municipal Stadium on Wednesday (6.30pm local time/5.30pm Irish time).
The two sides will then renew battle lines at the Gianni Visentin Municipal Stadium on Saturday 2 November (2pm local time/1pm Irish time).
Just what Cian’s selection means to the club and his team mates is shown in the following piece written by Liam Culliton.
He said: “Cian Butler, our academy captain, boards a plane on Saturday bound for Italy.
“He’s going on the Irish U-18s tour to Italy to represent his country which is a massive achievement.
“Cian came to us as a shy U-9 kid, really quiet and unassuming. His enthusiasm for rugby was clear from that early age.
“As Cian moved up through the age grades, in mini’s his work rate and willingness to learn really stood out.
“When he eventually got to youths and full pitch rugby, he really excelled.
“He was a born leader and all the other lads looked on Cian as their leader as he just grew and grew into the game.
“When he was selected on the North Midlands squad the progression process started.
“Next up was the Leinster squad where he had stand out performances on the way to a clean sweep of wins in the inter-pro’s where he led the pack by his example.
“Cian’s next chapter is beginning with Ireland’s U-18s and we know he’ll represent his country, just the same as he does his club, with pride and respect.
“We wish Cian the very best of luck on this biggest stage of his rugby career. We know he’ll wear the green jersey with savage pride.
“The very best of luck from everyone in Portlaoise RFC.”
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