Youth and experience have been a winning formula for Bournemouth Rugby this season. Breaking into the squad last month was new scrum-half Ollie Byrne.
The 19-year-old made his debut by scoring in a win against Newbury and now looks to be a regular feature.
Born and raised in Poole, he was first introduced to the sport during a six-year stint whilst living in Spain, where he played for Club de Rugby del Estrecho. Upon returning to the UK, Ollie moved to Bath and became a key member of the Bath Academy from U14 to U18.
He has also represented Somerset at county level and was selected for the Irish Rugby Football Union’s IQ Player Pathway at U18/19.
His ambition is to follow in the footsteps of his family members, who have a history of international rugby representation for Ireland.
Currently, Ollie is studying for a degree in Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Exeter and concentrating on his playing career at Bournemouth Rugby.
“Joining Bournemouth Rugby has given me a taste of senior club rugby and the opportunity to express myself, whilst developing my game further,” says Ollie Byrne.
Ollie’s passion for rugby, coupled with his athleticism and tactical awareness, make him a promising player with the potential to make a significant impact at the highest level.
His recent match debut came as a starting appearance due to one of Bournemouth Rugby’s most experienced players Sam Hardcastle being unavailable to play.
“Sam’s got 400 caps and it’s great to have those players in and around the squad, as they’ve they got a lot of experience. I ended up starting and had a good game. I felt like I fit in there nicely and all the lads were welcoming. I’m now planning to stay there for this season and get as much game time as I possibly can,” added Ollie.
The player believes that Bournemouth Rugby has a big future and one where youth talent is allowed to flourish.
“Bournemouth Rugby are going places, and they’ve got big aspirations. The new coaching staff are welcoming and giving young players an opportunity. There is a lot of potential here.”
This blend of youth and experience has been fundamental to the successful start to the season on the pitch.
“Ollie is someone we are delighted to have signed. He comes with a great pedigree and a terrific skill set, as is often the case with academy graduates. However, it’s his maturity, feel for the game and how it should be managed that sets him apart as a young scrum-half. We are so lucky to have Sam Hardcastle as a shining light, but Ollie coming through also gives us great continuity,” says director of rugby, Will Croker.
Ollie Byrne is a name to watch and will likely play a bigger role as Bournemouth Rugby push for promotion this season.
Will Croker adds: “He’s settled in very well, the boys like his ambition and feistiness too. We’re looking for him to continue playing with control and tempo, which so far has been impressive.”
