Carrick RFC Summer Camp 2025- three days of fun, friendship & rugby skills

Carrick-on-Shannon RFC held their annual Summer Camp last week and it proved once again one of the highlights of the year for the club as 165 eager young rugby players descended on Castlecarra Road for three days of action-packed fun.

Despite a grey and damp start, enthusiasm was sky-high on the opening day. The club’s immaculate pitches and impressive ongoing site development work set the stage for a fantastic few days.

There were a number of special guests from Connacht Rugby on Day 1 with Club & Community Manager Joe Gorham, Development Officer Lyndon Jones and former Connacht Captain and Ireland international Gavin Duffy in attendance. The trio chatted with the young players, shared stories, and watched them showcase their skills. 

There was a very special guest on Day 3 of the camp with Carrick RFC’s own Diarmaid O’Connell in attendance. A true homegrown success story, O’Connell began as a U7 mini at Carrick before moving through the underage structure in the club and Sligo Grammar School before going on to represent Ireland at U18 & U19 level and recently signing with the Connacht Senior Rugby Academy. 

Diarmuid spoke to each age group, sharing his journey and encouraging the next generation to chase their rugby dreams.

Across the three days, friendships were forged, skills sharpened, and memories made. The club extended heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the camp possible – from coaches and youth helpers to the tireless volunteers who handled everything from traffic management to pitch and activity preparations.

“Every role matters, and every effort counts,” noted Youths co-ordinator Ciaran McBrien. “Our minis are the future, and it’s clear that the future is bright.”

Carrick-on-Shannon RFC will soon announce registration details for the upcoming season with various underage group sessions starting in the coming weeks - keep an eye on various social media channels and the club website www.carrickrugbyclub.ie

SENIORS

Senior Training continues each Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7.30pm at  Keenaghan (at the roundabout at Aldi take the Castlecarra Road, after approx. 1 km turn right after the pedestrian crossing, our Club Grounds is on the first entrance on the right).

New members, as always, are very welcome.