25 Jul Emma O’Rourke Named in Leinster U18 Girls Squad
The proud tradition of elite female talent emerging from Balreask Old continues to flourish, as everyone at Navan RFC extends our warmest congratulations to youth standout Emma O’Rourke on her selection for the Leinster U18 Girls Squad!
Following a summer of rigorous training, high-tempo sessions, and relentless personal dedication, Emma’s exceptional work ethic and talent have been rewarded. She earns her place as one of just five players selected from the entire Leinster North-East area squad to make the final provincial setup.
Returning Champion at Number Eight
Emma is no stranger to the intensity of provincial rugby. She was a pivotal figure in the Leinster squad that stormed to victory in last year’s PwC Girls Under-18 Interprovincial Series.
Anchor and powerhouse at Number Eight, Emma produced consistently dominant performances throughout that championship campaign. Her ball-carrying, defensive work rate, and breakdown leadership proved crucial in bringing the trophy back to Leinster. Her re-selection this season is a testament to her continued growth and maturity as a top-tier player.
The 2026 PwC Girls U18 Interprovincial Series
Sponsored by PwC, the annual Underage Interprovincial Series showcases the premier age-grade talent across Ireland, serving as a critical stepping stone on the pathway from grassroots club rugby to national green shirts.
The U18 Girls competition kicks off in early August with three action-packed round-robin weekends, before culminating in a high-stakes Finals Day at Mullingar RFC on Saturday, 30th August!
Leinster U18 Girls Interprovincial Fixtures
Here is how the title defense shapes up for Emma and her Leinster teammates:
- Round 1: Saturday, 8th August 2026
- Match: Munster v Leinster (Other R1 Fixture: Ulster v Connacht)
- Round 2: Saturday, 15th August 2026
- Match: Leinster v Connacht (Other R2 Fixture: Munster v Ulster)
- Round 3: Saturday, 22nd August 2026
- Match: Ulster v Leinster (Other R3 Fixture: Connacht v Munster)
- Finals Day: Saturday, 30th August 2026
- Venue: Mullingar RFC
(Specific venues and kick-off times for Rounds 1–3 will be confirmed shortly by the IRFU).
Seeing Emma represent Navan RFC at the highest level of provincial youth rugby is a massive source of pride for her family, her teammates, her coaches, and our entire club community.
We wish Emma and the Leinster U18 Girls squad the absolute best of luck as they begin their title defense away to Munster on August 8th!
Emma O’Rourke