Southport Rugby Club player Daniel Kirk is celebrating becoming an international player after being selected for the Finland national rugby squad today!
At just 18 years and three months old he becomes one of the youngest players in the modern rugby game to debut at senior level internationally.
The kick-off for the Andorra – Finland Conference 2 North game in the Andorra National Stadium, Estadi Nacional – Andorra la Vella, has been confirmed at 5pm local time.
Finland are currently top of their group, which includes Andorra, Denmark and Norway.
The Myerscough College student follows Amy Dale, who played for England Under 20s earlier this year, as the second international player at the Waterloo Road club.
Daniel, an Open Side Flanker, qualifies to play as his Mum, Tina, is Finnish, and he spent some time growing up in Finland as a child.
Daniel Kirk said: “I am really looking forward to being part of the squad against Andorra!
“It’s a massive honour to be selected.
“I’ve had a really good reaction from players and coaches at Southport Rufby Club, they’ve been really proud of me.
“This is such a big game for Finland too. If we win, we win promotion, which is very exciting.
“I have enjoyed playing at Southport Rugby Club for the past few years. I have just finished playing for the Senior Colts, and have played a couple of senior games.
“I have been playing at Southport Rugby Club since I was five years old.
“I have recently come back from playing in the Lisbon Youth Tournament with Myerscough College, where we finished third.
“I am really looking for sponsors at the moment to support my journey in rugby.”
Daniel’s proud father, Tim Kirk, said: “To put Dan’s achievement into perspective when he plays for Finland in Andorra at just 18 years and three months and 22 days old he will become one of the youngest international debutants in modern rugby history worldwide.
“He has achieved this through incredible dedication and hard work. He trains very hard both physically and tactically.
“As well as Southport Rugby Club and Myerscough College Daniel has trained with Helsinki RFC during the summers since he was 14. This is where Finnish National coach Alastair Davies first saw his potential.
“After Dan’s 18th birthday at Christmas he was invited to visit Finland for four training / selection camps in January, February, March and April which he really excelled in to achieve the matchday squad.
“The match will be broadcast live via Rugby Europe TV and is available online.”
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