Ireland legend Paul O'Connell has watched his eldest son follow in his footsteps, with rugby becoming a family affair for the former British & Irish Lions captain.
Paddy O'Connell, 16, plays rugby in Limerick and has already experienced the responsibility of captaincy.
In January 2024, he captained Castletroy College against Blackrock College in a schools fixture with a remarkable family connection.
His opposite number was Gabriel Farrell, son of Ireland head coach Andy Farrell and younger brother of England star Owen Farrell.
The encounter made headlines, with RUCK reporting on the unusual family rivalry.
Gabriel has since earned another leadership role at Blackrock College.
O'Connell opens up about his son
Speaking to The Irish Times in April, O'Connell confirmed Paddy continues to enjoy rugby.
However, the Ireland forwards coach has no intention of pushing his children towards professional careers.
"Not at all. I wouldn't want them to do anything unless they enjoy it," he explained.
"Paddy enjoys his rugby, I don't know if he has ambitions to play it at a higher level."
O'Connell also revealed he helps coach Paddy's team.
For now, the famous surname comes without pressure to follow Dad into the Ireland jersey.
Read also
10 facts about Paul O'Connell
- Born in Limerick on 20 October 1979.
- Won 108 caps for Ireland.
- Scored eight international tries.
- Made his Ireland debut in 2002.
- Won the 2009 Six Nations Grand Slam.
- Captained Ireland to the 2014 Six Nations title.
- Won three Six Nations championships.
- Played on three British & Irish Lions tours.
- Captained the Lions in South Africa in 2009.
- Won two European Cups with Munster before retiring in 2016.
🏉 Pick Your Ultimate Rugby XV
Think you know your rugby? Take on the RUCK Ultimate Draft Challenge. Pick your players, build a dream XV and see if your team can top the leaderboard.
