Under-20s rugby team

Sir, – The unprecedented challenges faced by the Irish under-20s Rugby Team over the past few days reminds me of the quote by the American writer, William Arthur Ward: “Adversity causes some men to break; others to break records.”

These magnificent young men, their coaches and supporting team, led by Richie Murphy, are the epitome of what has made our nation survive so many obstacles, to achieve the success we enjoy today.

The dreadful tragedies surrounding the families associated with the team must have been very difficult for this group to comprehend, and deal with.

Making the semi-finals of this world-class event is a tremendous achievement. Good luck to the team for the rest of the competition.