Irish rugby player throws his support behind expansion plans at local Wexford club

Irish Independent

9 hours ago

In 2024, New Ross launched the 300 Club, a fundraising effort with an ambitious development plan to build new dressing rooms and install a 4G pitch. This will cater for the growing numbers and future proof the club for more success down the line, such as that of Tadhg Furlong, the international Irish rugby star who continues to support his local club.
Tadhg started playing rugby with New Ross as a mini player in 1998, playing with the u8's despite being a couple of years young for the team at the time. He was always a standout mini player and put in some memorable performances at the various u10 and u12 blitzes that were to follow. His late father James helped to coach these minis teams, offering a wealth of rugby advice that he had built up from playing as a prop himself for the New Ross 1st XV for many years. James is fondly remembered by everyone in New Ross RFC, especially those who were lucky to be part of these mini teams growing up.
When Tadhg graduated to youth rugby he continued to stand out, he had settled into life as a tight head prop but also did some lineout throwing, could pass off both sides and had a left boot that many out halves would be proud of.
In 2006, when New Ross won the u14 McGowan Cup for the first time in their history, Tadhg played at prop in the final against Edenderry RFC where New Ross came out on top in a 6-0 thriller. Tadhg was now part of a team that knew how to win, and he was usually found leading the way with tackles and strong carries. He made his way up through u16 rugby, always competing at premier division level and becoming a household name amongst many opposing teams.
Tadhg played his last season with New Ross in 2009 to 2010, aged 17, whilst also navigating the Leaving Certificate as well as being a Leinster and Irish youth player. New Ross was again victorious in this season, winning the Leinster League u19 Premier Division beating south-east rivals, Enniscorthy, in a 9-8 final win. Tadhg set the standards in this team, but this was also a talented group who were well able to mix it with the best players in Leinster at the time.
But for all of his success, Furlong has never forgotten where it all started. 'I think New Ross Rugby Club, the start they gave me, the friends I've made there, what they give from a social aspect to our family as well, it's been a big part of my life,' he added. 'They are proud rugby people in that part of the world.'
Tadhg is now a New Ross RFC supporter, and is often on the bank on a Sunday in Southknock, the home of New Ross RFC. The rugby club has continued to grow and is a very different club to the one Tadhg started off in back in 1998, as it now boasts seven minis and 13 youth teams, as well as a senior section with first and second teams for both men and ladies.
In April 2025, IRFU president Declan Madden visited New Ross and turned the sod on the new dressing room building. As works are under way, the club is calling for support with their 300 Club fundraising campaign, whereby they seek 300 participants to contribute €30 per month for three years. More information can be found at nrrfc.ie/300.