The Exiles Under-18 squad will be travelling to Ireland this week for their annual trip to Ireland to test themselves against some of the brightest young home talent. The squad will be bolstered by two young hopefuls flying in from America.
Two young players, prop Bryan Johnson and winger Oliver Cregg will fly from Los Angeles, at their own expense, to join the Exiles Under-18 squad, who will depart for Ireland on August 27.
Both young men have already represented the US Eagles at age group level but see their future with Ireland.
They will stay with the Exiles Honorary Secretary Ces Shaw for four days before joining the squad.
The Exiles U-18 squad assembled for the first time this season on Tuesday before flying to Ireland.
The squad will be based in Armagh and have the use of training facilities at Armagh Royal School and Armagh Rugby Club.
The coaches, Kevan Bell and Danny Lyons, have little time with the players, so encourage them to express themselves and make their own decisions on the park.
Their first game is against Ulster Under-18 Clubs at Malone RFC on Friday evening (August 28) at 6.30pm.
Following on from the Ulster game, the Exiles then play Leinster U-18 Clubs at Ashbourne RFC on Sunday, August 30 at 1.30pm.
Playing two games in quick succession will test the depth of the squad but also offers all the young players a chance to impress the Ireland U-18 Clubs coach.
The Exiles have contributed handsomely to this squad over the years and in particular in recent seasons.
The Exiles U-18 squad are always well supported by parents, who fly in from the UK and relatives from Ireland who turn up to support them.
Such support helps to encourage the ‘Irishness’ of the Exiles and encourages these dual qualified players to choose Ireland.
Given that these young, talented players have a choice of which country to play for, it is wonderful for them to receive a warm, friendly and hospitable welcome on their tour.
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