Several Kilkenny College alumni set for provincial rugby action this weekend
Three Kilkenny College alumni, Sean Naughton, Stephen Smyth and Charlie Tector, will feature in their provincial sides this weekend, with Connacht facing the Stormers in Galway on Friday night
A number of Kilkenny College alumni will have a prominent role to play in their provincial sides this 2026/7 rugby season - and three will feature in this weekend’s opening action.
Sean Naughton (Class of 2023) has been with Connacht for the last number of years progressing through their academy under the watchful eye of Stuart Lancaster. With 19 appearances including eight starts, the out-half /full back brings his additional goal kicking skills to the squad .
Always a welcome visitor at Kilkenny College, Sean regularly practises his kicking at his alma mater on the Castlcomer Road when he is in Kilkenny. This weekend, Connacht face off against the Stormers in the Dexcom Stadium in Galway on Friday night.
Sean’s dorm mate is the former back rower converted to hooker Stephen Smyth, (Class of 2023). The Carlow native has also gone the academy route and has had four senior appearances last season along with a tour to South Africa with Emerging Ireland .
Stephen flew to South Africa last Sunday as Leinster have two away games against The Lions next weekend and The Sharks on Saturday week. Also on that flight was Charlie Tector.
Charlie (Class of 2020) plays 10 (or 12) and has 27 senior appearances to date. The Rathnure man was also an accomplished hurler as a teen before focusing on his rugby. Following his Leaving Certificate in 2020,Charlie went on to study Agricultural Science alongside being part of the Leinster Academy.
“Everyone at Kilkenny College wishes all three men the very best for the season ahead,” says deputy principal Aubrey O’Keeffe.