J oe’s family encouraged him to play a sport that suited him, rugby with its physicality and team environment was the perfect fit. ‘I started playing at my local rugby club Stradbrook when I was a child, and then progressed through the age groups before I played with the Senior Cup team at Blackrock College.’ In his first year at Trinity, Joe played rugby for the Trinity Rugby senior’s team in the All-Ireland League (AIL). After several standout performances with Trinity Rugby, Joe was called up to the U20’s Ireland squad for the Six Nations Championship and subsequently Leinster Rugby Academy. ‘After working hard at the Leinster academy for a year and a half, I got the opportunity to make my debut for the Senior Leinster team and was also called up to the Ireland Rugby team. I made my Ireland debut against Australia in November; it was special day to experience a packed Aviva Stadium with my family watching on in the stands – it’s something I will remember forever.’ Playing rugby has already given Joe incredible experiences, ‘I’ve had the opportunity to play alongside some amazing athletes, represent Ireland at the highest level, and travel to South Africa and New Zealand.’ Joe believes that everyone should have the opportunity to participate and enjoy sports regardless of their background or ability. Recently, Joe and his brother Paddy McCarthy, who’s also an Ireland U-20’s rugby player led an inclusive coaching session with students from Trinity Centre for People with Intellectual Disability (TCPID) hosted by Trinity Sport and Rugby Players Ireland. The event showcased the impact of inclusion in sport and promoted diversity within the sporting community at Trinity. ‘It was a rewarding experience to be involved in the inclusive coaching event, as I was able to share my passion for the sport and help promote an inclusive environment. It was great to see the TCPID students including activity as part of their day as it’s so important for improving mood and general health. Sport has a unique ability to connect people and make them feel involved. Throughout my career, I hope to play a small role in shedding light on the fact that individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities can excel in sports and academics when given the right support.’ He continued, ‘this is so important to me because my brother Andrew’s involvement in sports has shown me the positive impact it can have on individuals with disabilities. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to be a part of something they love.’ Joe’s advice to younger athletes, hoping to pursue a career in professional sport is ‘work hard, stay disciplined, and be resilient. It is very important to fully believe in yourself, because through my journey so far, I have had many coaches and people think I wasn’t good enough. That should drive you to push through whatever you may face whether it is selection or injury. Also, it really helps when you have a passion for the sport, I really couldn’t think of a better job than coming and training with my best mates every day.’ Looking to the future, Joe outlines that he ‘hopes to continue representing Ireland and Leinster at the highest level and contribute to the success of both teams. I also plan to use my Global Business degree to make a positive impact in the sports industry, particularly in promoting inclusion and diversity.’
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