The Ireland squad took time out of their preparations for the upcoming Nations Championship Northern Hemisphere Series by visiting young patients and their families at Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) Hospitals at Crumlin and Temple Street this week.
The visits provided an opportunity for players to spend time with children receiving care, meet their families and bring some Irish Rugby spirit to the hospital wards, sharing conversations, signing memorabilia, and posing for photographs.
While Andy Farrell’s squad continues its preparations for the November campaign, which gets underway next week against Argentina at Aviva Stadium, the visit served as a reminder of the importance of representing Ireland beyond the rugby pitch and the privilege that comes with wearing the green jersey.
For the two sets of players who visited Crumlin and Temple Street, it was an immense privilege to meet hospital staff, young patients and their families, who show the true meaning of courage and resilience.
‘Inspiring A Nation’ is a central part of the team's identity, reflecting a commitment to representing Ireland with pride and making a positive impact on communities across the country. Through these visits, the squad sought to bring encouragement and moments of happiness to children and families, while recognising the extraordinary work of the healthcare teams caring for them.
Commenting on the visit, Bundee Aki said: “These visits are a really important part of what it means to represent Ireland. Rugby is a huge privilege, and wearing the green jersey comes with a responsibility to inspire people, both on and off the pitch.
“To spend time with the children and their families, see the strength they show every day and hopefully bring a few smiles to their faces is very special. You leave the hospitals with a lot of perspective, and it reminds you that representing Ireland is about much more than what happens on the rugby pitch.”