Leader Kicking provides a route for young Irish athletes to pursue higher education in the United States
Founded by Tadhg Leader, former rugby union player and gridiron football placekicker, Leader Kicking is a non-profit organization that creates and supports a pathway for young Irish athletes to access a college education in the US.
It is his belief that organic exposure to Rugby, Soccer, and Gaelic football puts these athletes in a prime position to be skilled kickers and punters in American collegiate football – and the exciting athletic and academic opportunities available through scholarships to universities in the United States.
“When we began to discuss potential partners to join us on this journey, we wanted to find those who have synergy with Leader Kicking’s core values, and in the Irish American Partnership, we couldn’t have found a better partner.”
Beyond offering one-of-a-kind and thrilling sports prospects, Leader Kicking dramatically decreases the expenses of higher education. In participating, athletes gain access to new athletic experiences in American football as well as potential scholarships that make prestigious universities more affordable.
“Leader Kicking is the intersection of my passion, purpose, and skillset. I’m here to guide these athletes on this journey - I know firsthand what life is like as a scholarship athlete and the phenomenal opportunities that come with it, on and off the field,” said Leader.
When I met with Tadhg earlier this year, it was clear to me that both our organizations exist to provide life-changing opportunities for the youth of Ireland, with a focus on education, and we are both immensely proud of our Irish heritage.
- Mary Sugrue, President & CEO, Irish American Partnership
The various aspects of kicking and punting, coaching and advancement, strength and conditioning, lifestyle, sports psychology, and—above all—advice for the US educational system are covered in Leader Kicking's immersive program.
In the first program, three athletes completed an exciting trip that visited the east and west coast of the US. Ross Bolger (below) from County Laois, Noah Byrne from Dublin, and Ronan Patterson from County Cavan visited the athletic departments of several universities, including Idaho State University, University of Connecticut, University of California – Davis, Boston College, Monmouth University, University at Albany, and University of Massachusetts.
After receiving multiple offers, Ross Bolger has embarked on a two-year scholarship from the Division One College Football program at Idaho State. Ronan Patterson has also been offered a Division 1 scholarship, while Noah is still a youth prospect.
“Tadhg, and Ross, Noah and Ronan – we are inspired by your vision, and celebrate your successes with you. The Irish American Partnership is proud to partner and support Leader Kicking,” concluded Sugrue.