Rob Russell selected for the Emerging Ireland tour to South Africia
Rob Russell is no stranger to Leinster supporters. Rob finished top URC try scorer in his first and is a regular in Lenister blue with Ben just recently winning an U20 Grand Slam with Ireland and securing a Leinster Academy spot.
As Wanderers underage players Rob used to see one of their parents waiting for them on the sidelines in Merrion Road. They used to wonder what it would be like to have a Leinster player train them. That was exactly what happened for mini players during our mid-term camp in the club. They very kindly turned up in the wind and rain to train our players.
"It's something I really enjoy doing," Rob told our Youths Coordinator. I found out a few days before I was coming and didn't tell anyone as I wanted it to be a surprise for the kids, and it was a big surprise for them, but just to come to the club where I started my rugby and give something back makes it a bit extra special. Rob very generously donated one of his match day jerseys to the underage section. Once the clubhouse reopens after its recent works we are looking forward to hanging it on the wall with pride.
Adult players who have come through our own system understand our DNA, our history, our values and our spirit. We provide a great arena for children to thrive, meet new people outside their own schools and neighbourhoods. It is important to understand the diverse nature of modern day society. Being seen as a figure who embraces being part of the community in Wanderers is a big part of the culture our underage committee has tried to build in recent years. When Dermot Rafter (Youths Coordinator) was asked about this he told us that children need role models and who are better than home grown ones?
Rob is a regular in Leinster blue but now adds green after being selected for the Emerging Ireland tour to South Africa. This is a huge achievement and we hope a great stepping stone to Andy Farells squad. We are very lucky to have Leinster & Ireland players associated with the club. It is a also a tribute to our great men and women volunteers who regularly assist our underage section, well done everyone and congrats Rob, once a Wanderer, Always a Wanderer.
