Ireland’s Hugo Keenan, a prominent fullback, has secured a place in the Olympic men’s squad for the Rugby Sevens to be staged in Paris. The men’s squad will march under the leadership of Harry McNulty, whilst Lucy Rock, previously Mulhall, takes charge of the women’s team. The Rugby Sevens games will take place at the Stade de France starting from the 24th to 30th of July.
Responding to the official team selection, men’s team skipper Harry McNulty expressed his profound honour in guiding his team to the Summer Olympics. He described the team’s remarkable performances during the season, the highest yet, and how it forms a robust basis for their preparations ahead of the games. He emphasised the intense competition within the squad, inducing each player to push their limits every day. McNulty conveyed the team’s eager anticipation for the approaching Paris event and their unyielding efforts to prepare both mentally and physically to make the absolute best of the games and pursue their Olympic medal aspirations.
Women’s team captain Lucy Rock shared the palpable excitement surrounding the Ireland Sevens programme as both teams gear up for competition in Paris. She acknowledged the hard work, resolve, and sacrifices of the Women’s squad over three cycles to reach this stage. She touched on the honour of donning the Team Ireland jersey this summer, stating that it signified much more than individual representation, encompassing the wider team, families, friends, former teammates, support staff, and everyone who has encouraged them along the way. She expressed immense pride in leading the team in the Olympics.
The following players make up the Men’s team: Niall Comerford, Jordan Conroy, Hugo Keenan, Jack Kelly, Terry Kennedy, Hugo Lennox, Harry McNulty, Gavin Mullin, Chay Mullins, Mark Roche, Andrew Smith, and Zac Ward. Bryan Mollen and Sean Cribbin are listed as the travelling reserves.
The Women’s team includes Kathy Baker.
Megan Burns, Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe, Alanna Fitzpatrick, Stacey Flood, Eve Higgins, Erin King, Vicky Elmes Kinlan, Emily Lane, Ashleigh Orchard, Béibhinn Parsons, and Lucy Rock will be participating. If any additional members are needed, Claire Boles and Amy Larn are available as travelling reserves. Please note, the text must not be translated; it should be communicated in British English.