Carr on the Road to Europe

A Swords schoolboy is set to make sporting history this summer - but first must tackle the challenge of the Leaving Cert.
Peter Carr has been selected for the Irish U-18 rugby league for the upcoming European Championships, the first home grown player to represent his country.

‘I had trials in Leeds at the start of April and was selected that day,' the Coláiste Choilm student said. ‘I'll be going over in July to meet up with the squad. I would have gone over at the end of May, but I have to do my exams.' Peter began his rugby career at Swords Rugby Club, where he was amongst the first players to represent the club at youth level and has become an integral part of the Under-18 side, playing at outhalf.

He took up rugby league less than a year ago, playing with the North Dublin Eagles. ‘When I started playing rugby, I looked at league and I prefer it,' he continued. ‘It's faster and there's more stuff going on. The lines that you have to take are different and the angles are a lot more complex.' Peter has already had a taste of international league competition, when he was selected for the European Celts U-16 side last year, while he also represented the North East Development team in union this season.

The championships take place in Prague in September after which Peter will look to make his mark with his home club. ‘I'll be coming back to Swords and hoping to play for the seconds or firsts,' the River Valley native added. ‘There's no point going anywhere else to make them look good. I'm there nearly four years now.‘My coach JP (John Prendergast) has really helped with my kicking and shown me how to control a game.' Still just 16, Peter clearly has a bright future ahead of him.

Swords RFC president, Richard Cowman, said the club were delighted with Peter's progress and to see their youth system get its rewards, after years of hard work.‘It's good to hear that Peter will be coming back to Swords RFC,' Mr Cowman said. ‘We wish him every success.'