Great day for Dundalk rugby says coach Ene

Dundalk RFC club coach and player Ene F’Aatau says the Leinster training session was a ‘great day’ for the club, but also a landmark day for rugby in the Dundalk.

“I think it helps to put rugby right up there with the likes of soccer and GAA. It’s a fantastic way for kids to see these guys live and up front too.

“A huge amount of work went on behind the scenes to get these guys down, and it’s great to have them here. It’s a big day for the club.”

Ene says that it also opportunity for club players to see how things are done at aprofessional level, with 35 players and another 35 staff arriving in Dundlak for the session.

“At this level there’s a huge amount of detail. It gives them something to aspire to.”

And there are also stories that can help inspire club players to make the leap to the professional game.

“Leo A’auva was picked up from Belevere, and Aaron Dundon was at Seapoint, and they now have contracts. It can be done.”

Dundalk RFC also have their own story of bridging the gap, with former player Afa F’Aatau signing a two deal with the Wellington Lions in New Zealand. “Afa has worked hard and he now has a great opportunity,” concludes Ene.