Kieran Paul Treadwell, born on November 6, 1995, is a professional rugby union player known for his contributions as a lock for United Rugby Championship club Ulster and the Ireland national team. Although born in England, he qualifies to represent Ireland internationally through his Irish ancestry.
Treadwell began his rugby career in England, attending The John Fisher School in Sutton, south London. His mother is of Irish descent, which led him to represent Ireland at the under-18 level.
He initially joined the academy of English club Harlequins for the 2014-2015 season, where he honed his skills and made his senior debut. Treadwell also had a dual registration deal with London Scottish, playing in the British and Irish Cup during the 2015-2016 season. His performances caught the attention of selectors, and he earned caps for England at the under-20 level, being part of the squad that triumphed in the 2015 Six Nations Under 20s Championship.
In 2016, Treadwell made a significant move to Ulster, joining the Irish province ahead of the 2016-2017 season. He quickly made an impact, enjoying regular playing time due to injuries and departures of other locks in the squad. He made 21 starts in his first season with Ulster, showcasing his skills in the lineout and contributing to the team's performance. His impressive form earned him recognition, and he was called up to the Ireland national team by head coach Joe Schmidt for their 2017 Summer Tour.
Treadwell continued to solidify his place at Ulster and became an integral part of the team's pack. He demonstrated consistency and resilience, making a significant number of appearances and displaying his abilities in tackling, rucking, and ball-carrying. Throughout his career, he has shown versatility by playing in both the second row and back row positions when required.
Although there was a gap in his international appearances, Treadwell's consistent performances for Ulster caught the attention of the Ireland selectors once again. In 2022, he was called up to the Ireland squad for the Six Nations Championship, indicating a return to the international scene. During the tournament, Treadwell made his presence felt by scoring his first try for Ireland in a commanding victory over Italy. He was subsequently included in the squad for Ireland's tour of New Zealand, highlighting his growing stature as an international player.
Treadwell's playing style is characterized by his physicality, athleticism, and work rate. He is known for his prowess in the lineout, where he provides a reliable option and disrupts opposition ball.
His tackling ability, combined with his agility and speed, makes him a valuable asset both in defense and attack. Treadwell's continued development and dedication to his craft suggest a promising future for him at both the club and international levels.
KG(29/06/2023)
Career
Ulster Rugby No 5 Lock |
2016 - present | |
England U20's No 4 Lock |
2015 - 2016 | |
Harlequins No 5 Lock |
2014 - 2016 | |
Ireland A No 4 Lock |
2022 - 2023 | |
Ireland No 4 Lock |
2017 - 2023 |