David Poyntz leads Clogher Valley RFC 2nd XV for the 2026/27 season

Clogher Valley Rugby Football Club’s 2nd XV are being led by 21-year-old David Poyntz this season, as he takes on the role of captain for the first time.

Despite his young age, David has already built up several years of experience within the club, and he is relishing the opportunity to lead the team through the 2nd XV league. A back-row forward, he is enjoying the challenge of captaincy and the opportunity to learn from the more experienced players around him. “It’s a privilege to be trusted by the lads to lead them through the 2nd XV league,” David said. “It’s also a great achievement to be given the opportunity to captain the team at such a young age.”

David is now in his third year of senior rugby, having previously spent two years playing in Clogher Valley’s youth section.

After completing his education at The Royal School, Armagh, he returned to his home club, County Cavan RFC. However, following an amalgamation due to low playing numbers, he became part of the Clogher Valley set-up, where he has continued to develop as a player and now takes on greater responsibility within the squad.

Away from the rugby pitch, David works as a joiner and uses the off-season to focus on gym training, helping him prepare for the physical demands of the game. Rugby has always been a significant part of David’s family life, with both his parents sharing a keen interest in the sport and encouraging their children to get involved from a young age.

His mother served as President of Cavan Rugby Club for two years, while his father has played and coached rugby over the years. His older brother, Dylan, also plays for City of Armagh Rugby Club, bringing a little friendly rivalry into the family. With such strong rugby connections at home, it is no surprise that the sport has played a major role in shaping David’s journey.

David is quick to recognise the contribution of his teammates, particularly the senior players within the squad, who have helped guide him as he takes on the captaincy.

“All of the senior players in the group are a great source of motivation and have plenty of good advice to offer” he added. Clogher Valley RFC wishes David every success for the remainder of the season and looks forward to seeing him continue to grow as a leader within the club.