There’s something special about seeing players you’ve watched grow through the club pull on the green jersey – and this week, there’s plenty for Clontarf to be proud of.
The Ireland Women’s U21 squad has been named for the inaugural Six Nations Series, a new competition designed to bridge the gap between underage and senior international rugby and provide high-potential players with consistent, high-quality game time.
Teni Onigbode Leads The Way
At the heart of that announcement is Clontarf’s own Teni Onigbode – and few selections will feel more deserved from a club perspective.
In her first season with the senior women’s team, Teni has made a huge impact, playing a key role in a campaign that saw Clontarf secure promotion to Division 1. Consistently influential across the season, she has brought physicality, intent, and a real attacking edge to the side.
Her contributions were evident throughout the season, including in the decisive league clash against Greystones – a 2nd v 3rd battle with everything on the line – where she crossed for an important try as part of a strong all-round team performance that secured second place and a playoff spot, ultimately sealing promotion.
Her selection for Ireland U21 is not just recognition of potential, but of performance – and a proud moment for everyone involved in her journey at Castle Avenue.
X-Factor: Teni Onigbode weaves through the Greystones defense to run in a crucial try in their decider match against Greystones
Pathway Pride – Past & Present
There’s also a familiar name for Clontarf supporters in the squad, with Ava Usanova earning international recognition. While Ava moved clubs last season, she came through the Clontarf pathway up to U18 level, and her progression is another strong endorsement of the environment and development structures within the club.
Ava’s connection to Clontarf runs even deeper – she is the younger sister of Alex Usanov, who currently lines out for our senior men’s team, as well as representing Leinster and Ireland U20s.
Pathway In Action At Castle Avenue
Last week, Harry Heagney proudly represented Ireland U18 Schools at Castle Avenue, lining out on home soil and getting on the scoresheet in a six-try win over Wales. It was a special moment for both player and club, and another example of the Clontarf pathway producing players capable of performing on the international stage.
There was also a proud milestone for Coumba Sow, who featured for Ireland U18s in their recent preparation fixture against England, marking her first appearance in green and getting on the scoresheet with her first international try. A brilliant moment for a player who has come through the club’s underage pathway, and another sign of the next wave of talent continuing to push forward.
Built, Not Found
With the introduction of the new U21 Six Nations format – featuring fixtures against England, Wales and Italy – the pathway for young players is becoming clearer and more competitive than ever.
For Clontarf, moments like this reinforce what the club is building: a genuine, sustainable pathway where players can start, develop, and go on to represent their country.
From Mini’s through to Youth and beyond – the pathway isn’t just working.
It’s delivering.
Peter Connolly
Chair of Marketing