Friday 14th July, the Under-20 Rugby World Cup Final takes place in Cape Town South Africa with Ireland taking on tournament favourites France. Lining up in the Ireland squad is 6”8 Charlie Irvine. Charlie was a central part of the Glenavy GAC’s youth teams from the age of 7 when he was introduced to Gaelic Games through a partnership with Lisburn Rugby Club. This successful program saw young players introduced to each sport at the start of the GAA and rugby seasons. Charlie was one of a group of eight kids who continued to play GAA through the age grades, with Charlie playing up to Minor before concentrating on his rugby career. 

Charlie Irvine celebrates after Ireland’s semi-final win over South Africa.

Another two from the group that played both sports are Tim Honeyford and Darragh Armstrong, with both continuing in Gaelic games and now important members of the Glenavy GAC senior squad, as indeed are the Malley brothers Finn and Ryan.

The under-20 Rugby World Cup final kicks off at 6pm on Friday, with everyone in Glenavy GAC and Antrim County standing Shoulder to Shoulder with Charlie and the Irish Squad. A proud day for Charlie as well as Richard and Jill, his mum and dad, and his wider family.

Charlie, who now plays his club rugby with QUB, was a memer of the team who beat the tournament hosts South Africa in the semi-final, but drops to the bench for the final as his place is taken by the only other Ulster player in the squad, James McNabney of Ballymena RFC, who returns after suspension.

Pics by Bert Trowlen

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