Old Wesley Touch once again found itself at the heart of Irish Touch Rugby success as players, coaches and officials played leading roles at the 2026 European Youth Touch Championships, held at the University of Warwick from 13-16 August. The tournament brought together the best young Touch Rugby talent from across Europe, with teams competing in U15, U18 and U20 categories. Ireland fielded six squads across the various age grades, a remarkable achievement that reflects the strength and growth of the national youth pathway.
Much of the credit for this success belongs to Ireland Touch Head Coach Tania Rosser, whose vision and leadership have helped establish Ireland as an emerging force in international youth touch. The Irish coaching set-up also featured strong Old Wesley representation, with Michael Kearney, Gary Hynes and Ron Degani all playing important roles in preparing and developing Ireland’s young athletes for the European stage.
Historic Gold for Ireland and Old Wesley
Among the standout performers were Old Wesley sisters Cara and Niamh Summerbell, who continue to make history in Irish Touch Rugby.
Having only recently returned from representing Ireland Women’s Open at the European Championships, where the team secured Ireland’s first ever medal at Women’s Open level, Cara and Niamh once again donned the green jersey, this time with the Ireland Mixed U20 squad. Their efforts culminated in a memorable championship final against England, where Ireland delivered an outstanding performance to claim the gold medal. The victory marked a historic moment for the sport, securing Ireland’s first ever European Junior Touch Championship title and writing a new chapter in the development of Irish Touch Rugby.
Representing the Club Beyond the Field
Old Wesley’s contribution to the championships extended beyond players and coaches. The club’s long-standing commitment to developing the sport was also evident in the officiating ranks. For Old Wesley, seeing two club members contribute to such a landmark achievement is a source of immense pride and a reflection of the quality of players emerging from the club’s thriving Touch section.
International referees Issy Tierney and Aoife McCarthy, both closely associated with Old Wesley Touch, continued to represent the club with distinction at the highest level of the game. Their involvement highlights the club’s reputation not only for producing talented athletes but also for supporting the growth of elite officials within the sport.
A Club at the Centre of Irish Touch Rugby
While Old Wesley is best known as one of Ireland’s leading rugby union clubs, its Touch Rugby section has become one of the largest and most successful in the country. The performances and contributions seen at the European Youth Touch Championships are further evidence of the club’s central role in the continued growth and success of Irish Touch Rugby. From international players to national team coaches and world-class referees, Old Wesley’s influence could be felt throughout the tournament. As Ireland celebrates a historic youth European title, the club can take great pride in knowing that so many of its members helped make that success possible.
Congratulations to Cara and Niamh Summerbell, Michael Kearney, Gary Hynes, Ron Degani, Issy Tierney, Aoife McCarthy and all of the Irish squads on an outstanding European Youth Championships campaign.
