21 May Navan Legends Enshrined: IRFU Unveils Historic Women’s Heritage Cap List
There was a monumental and richly deserved celebration of 33 years of Irish Women’s international rugby at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday, connecting generations of players who have worn the green jersey with pride.
At a special post-match function following Ireland’s dramatic Six Nations victory over Scotland, the IRFU officially unveiled its definitive Women’s Heritage Caps List. For the first time, every player to have ever represented Ireland across both the 15-as-side and Sevens senior international arenas was honored with a unique, permanent playing number.
The initiative bridges the gap between the trailblazing pioneers of the inaugural 1993 team who played their maiden international against Scotland at Raeburn Place, Edinburgh and the modern squad, cementing the sentiment that today’s successes are built entirely on the shoulders of those who came before.
For Navan RFC, the evening was a historic validation of the club’s incredible contribution to the international game. A magnificent contingent of nine former and current Balreask Old stars have been permanently etched onto the national board of honor.
From early code-converters to modern giants of the game, here are the official Ireland Senior Heritage Numbers for the Navan RFC family:
- Orla Brennan — #129 (15s) / #4 (7s): Holding the distinction of a double-digit entry across both formats, Orla has been an iconic dual-international pioneer.
- Sinéad Ryan — #132 (15s) / #16 (7s): Another historic dual-code star whose legacy spans both the expansive sevens game and the physical test arena as well as on the pitch in Balreask Old this past season.
- Jackie Shiels — #148: The current Navan RFC Women’s Head Coach, whose extensive international career continues to inspire the thriving senior section at the club today.
- Marie Louise ‘Maz’ Reilly — #157: A legendary, towering lock who was a fundamental cornerstone of Ireland’s Six Nations and World Cup campaigns.
- Orla Fitzsimons — #178: A powerful second-row engine whose consistency at the highest level helped define a positive era for Irish Women’s rugby.
- Jenny Finlay — #211: A dynamic front-row technician whose call-up capped off years of elite performance.
Completing the illustrious list are names synonymous with the wider Navan RFC family:
- Sharon Lynch — #180: Known for her relentless work rate in the pack, Sharon’s international pedigree has been a massive asset to the club’s current squad.
- Michelle Claffey — #218: Current 1st XV Player/Assistant Coach, who recently served as Assistant Coach to the Ireland Women’s U18s, further strengthening the link between international standard and grassroots development.
- Sam Monaghan — #248: The current Ireland forward, former national captain, and proud Navan native. Sam remains a close friend to everyone at Navan RFC, acting as the ultimate role model for young boys and girls starting their rugby journeys at the club.
To see nine names with deep roots in Balreask Old receiving their permanent international cap numbers is a phenomenal milestone for Navan RFC. It reflects decades of elite coaching, a dedicated player pathway, and a club culture that fosters international-grade talent.
Congratulations to all our heritage cap recipients, your unique numbers are a permanent reminder that you didn’t just play for Ireland; you helped further the building of the Green Jersey to where it is today!