Hugo Keenan is an Irish professional rugby union player who was born on June 18, 1996. He primarily plays as a fullback for Leinster in the United Rugby Championship and the Ireland national team.
Keenan attended Blackrock College for his secondary education, where he played rugby and was part of the team that won the 2014 Leinster Schools Senior Cup. Known for his running and passing skills, Keenan scored a try in the final of the competition.
At the international level, Keenan represented the Ireland under-20 national rugby union team as a wing. He played in all matches during the 2016 under-20 Six Nations and the 2016 World Rugby under-20 Championship, including Ireland's historic victory over New Zealand.
In early 2017, Keenan joined the Ireland national rugby sevens team camp and participated in the 2017 Grand Prix Series. He played a crucial role in Ireland's victory at the 2017 Moscow Sevens, scoring several tries, including one in the semifinal against Russia.
Keenan made his debut for the Ireland national team on October 24, 2020, in a Six Nations match against Italy. He started on the wing and scored two tries in a 50-17 win.
Following his impressive performance, Keenan became a regular starter for Ireland, featuring in their next 17 internationals from 2020 to 2022. He scored tries against Georgia, Italy, USA, England, and New Zealand.
Keenan's strong performance in Ireland's win against England in the 2022 Six Nations earned him recognition, and he has been touted as the successor to Rob Kearney as Ireland's fullback.
In addition to his international career, Keenan has played for Leinster. He made his debut for the club against Zebre in November 2016. Keenan has primarily played as a winger for Leinster and has showcased his aerial skills and ability to beat defenders.
He scored his first try for Leinster against the Dragons in December 2018. As of November 2019, Keenan had made 10 senior appearances for Leinster, scoring 5 points. He was also named in Leinster's squad for the 2019 Champions Cup, making his debut in the tournament.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Keenan has been named in the squad for Ireland.
KG(30/06/2023)
Career
Leinster Rugby Fullback |
2016 - present | |
Ireland 7's Left Wing |
2018 - present | |
Ireland Fullback |
2020 - present | |
Ireland A Fullback |
2022 - present | |
Ireland U20's Left Wing |
2016 - 2017 | |
Blackrock College Left Wing |
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UCD RFC Left Wing |