Nonprofit Leader Kicking mirrors the Irish American Partnership’s mission of investing in Ireland’s future–by creating and supporting a pathway for young Irish athletes to access a United States college education.
BOSTON, MA, June 9, 2023 (PR.com) – Leading transatlantic educational charity the Irish American Partnership is delighted to announce its support of, and partnership with, Leader Kicking.
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.
“We are committed to supporting young people across Ireland on their educational journey, investing in Ireland’s future as we have done for almost 40 years,” said Chief Executive Mary Sugrue.
She continued, “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.”
The Irish American Partnership provides targeted grants to schools, access scholarships to every major Irish university, funds the development of education centers for homeless youth, supports peace and reconciliation initiatives in Northern Ireland, and champions Irish arts, culture, and sport both in Ireland, and the US.
"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,” said Leader.
“In a short space of time, we have helped secure scholarships for two Irish athletes to further their athletic and academic careers. This is just the beginning of our partnership, and the positive impacts we can make on the next generation.”
Leader Kicking’s immersive program includes all aspects of kicking and punting, coaching and development, strength and conditioning, lifestyle, sports psychology, and, most importantly, guidance for the American education system.
The initial program saw three athletes complete a whirlwind tour dotting both coasts of the US. Ross Bolger (below) from County Laois, Noah Byrne from Dublin, and Ronan Patterson from County Cavan visited athletic programs at University of Connecticut, University of California - Davis, Boston College, Monmouth University, University at Albany, and University of Massachusetts, and Idaho State University.
After receiving multiple offers, Ross Bolger has accepted 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 beginning his final year of high school.
“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.
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ABOUT THE IRISH AMERICAN PARTNERSHIP
Dedicated to connecting Irish America and friends of Ireland to their heritage through targeted giving – we invest in education, community development, and peace initiatives across the island of Ireland. Since our inception in 1986, our supporters have raised over $56 million for young people and communities, North and South, empowering and educating the next generation of global leaders. For more information visit irishap.org.
ABOUT LEADER KICKING
Leader Kicking was established in 2023 with one main focus, to provide life-changing opportunities for the youth of Ireland through a combination of sport and education. Our goal is to place Irish kicking athletes on US college scholarships throughout the United States. Kicking is in our heritage, it's in our DNA. For more information visit www.leaderkicking.com.