Navan RFC’s Alex Connor has been named to start at scrum-half for Ireland Women’s Under-21 Rugby Team in their opening clash of the Women’s U21 Six Nations Series against Italy this Saturday at Dexcom Stadium in Galway (kick-off 2:20pm). Selected by Head Coach Niamh Briggs, Connor’s inclusion marks a hugely proud moment for her family, teammates, coaches and the entire Navan RFC community.

Her selection is made all the more notable as she is the only starting player (and one of just three in the wider squad) from a club outside the top-tier competitions such as the All-Ireland League or England’s Premiership Women’s Rugby. Connor’s journey began in the Navan RFC minis and youth girls pathway, where her dedication and work ethic quickly set her apart. She went on to represent the North-East region and captain the Leinster Under 18 Women’s side, establishing herself as one of the province’s standout young players.

A talented multi-sport athlete, Connor also excelled in Gaelic football with Simonstown and was goalkeeper for Loreto St Michael’s, Navan when they captured the LGFA All-Ireland Post Primary Schools Senior “A” title in 2023. Her rugby progression has continued at pace, with involvement in Ireland Under 18 training squads, recognition last year as Navan RFC’s Under 18 Girls Players’ Player of the Year,
and further development through Leinster Rugby’s senior extended squad and the IRFU Women’s National Talent Squad.

Now a key figure for Navan’s Women’s 1st XV, Connor has impressed with her composure, game management and leadership from scrum-half. Her recent performances earned her selection with the Wolfhounds in the Celtic Challenge, where she played a role in their
title-winning campaign. A fantastic achievement for Connor, whose rise continues to inspire the next generation at Navan RFC.

Elsewhere, former Navan player Kate Jordan has been called into the senior Ireland Women’s Rugby Team squad, currently representing Blackrock College RFC. Ireland’s senior side will also face Italy later that evening at Dexcom Stadium (5:40pm), rounding off a landmark day of women’s rugby in Galway. Full Irish Women’s Under-21 squad announcement on the IRFU Website:
https://www.irishrugby.ie/2026/04/15/ireland-u21s-team-named-to-face-italy-in-galway/