All babies born in Ireland on February 15 will receive an Irish rugby replica kit from the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU).
The union has decided to welcome a new generation of rugby fans into the fold to mark the 150th anniversary of Ireland’s first-ever international men’s rugby match on February 15, 1875.
They have launched a unique initiative in which all babies born on that date will be gifted their very first Irish rugby replica kit.
Parents of these newborns can claim the gift by submitting a copy of their baby’s birth certificate via email to [email protected].
The IRFU will send out the exclusive kit to ensure that every baby born on this milestone day is introduced to the world of Irish rugby in the most memorable way possible, they said.
They added it will be a keepsake that will be cherished as both a symbol of children’s birthplace and a part of the sport’s rich heritage.
The IRFU President Declan Madden has described the Irish rugby jersey as an “iconic symbol of national pride and passion”.
“As families across Ireland celebrate the birth of their children on February 15, we’re thrilled to be able to share this moment with them by welcoming the next generation of rugby fans with open arms — and with their very first kit,” he added.
The chair of the IRFU Working Group, Paul Dean, added: “This initiative is a celebration of both the rich history of Irish rugby and the exciting future ahead.”
“We’re proud to offer these gifts to families and to be part of their joyful moments as we mark 150 years of Irish rugby,” he said.
The IRFU said February 15 promises to be a day of celebration for both the sport and the nation – and it will also be a day to welcome Ireland’s newest generation of rugby supporters, whether they grow up to pull on the green jersey themselves or cheer from the sidelines.