*l-r: Conor Moloney, Tony Butler and Ethan Coughlan
ENNIS Rugby Club is celebrating after three of its members were selected for international duty this week. Kildysart’s Conor Moloney has been selected for the Ireland u18 Schools side while Doora Barefield men Tony Butler and Ethan Coughlan have been selected for the Ireland u18 club side.
Ennis RFC Club President Richie Murphy told The Clare Echo that the call-ups are reward for hard work put in by the respective players. The three have represented Munster over the last two years at underage level while Ethan already holds one international cap.
“We’re delighted,” said Murphy. “There’s a lot of work going in behind the scenes for them to be competing for selection at this level, they’re up down to Cork twice a week for extra sessions under tutelage of Munster Rugby plus they’re also training with their club side. A lot of hard work has gone into this.
He continued, “It’s a great boost for Ennis; their success reflects well on us but ultimately it comes down to the players. Not only did they have the talent but they had the work ethic to back it up. We’re very proud of the lads and it’s great to give the youngsters in the club people to look up to.”
The boost comes after Ethan and fellow Ennis product Aaaron Hennessy recently enjoyed call-ups for Munster A.
