Rugby Development Officer (RDO) Spotlight – Micheál Glennon

14 January 2026

The name Micheál Glennon has been synonymous with the development of rugby in Roscommon for many years, having left a very visibile mark on the footprint of both club and schools rugby over the past decade. Micheál was Creggs RFC Club Rugby Development Officer (CRDO) 7 years where he worked not only with the club but also with the schools in the area. His passion and love of strengthening every community through rugby is evident and he's seen great success in the growth of rugby in the area, particularly schools rugby and Inclusion rugby. 

In his current role, Micheál works closely with Roscommon City Council and Sports Partnership – a strategic partnership which allows for increased funding for grassroots rugby in Roscommon. In this role, Micheál focuses on a number of key pillars of rugby participation, including working directly with National & Secondary Schools, Women in Rugby, Diverse communities, people with a disability and adult rugby.

Name and Role: Micheál Glennon, Rugby Development Officer for Roscommon. 

How long have you been in the role? I started in May 2025. For 7 years previous I was the Creggs RFC CRDO.

What area of Connacht do you work with (club/schools)? I work throughout Roscommon in Creggs RFC and various schools including primary and secondary schools. I started my role just as the last rugby season ended, but it gave me an opportunity to visit schools that were previously outside of my remit. I visited schools in the Boyle area like Corrigeenroe Cootehall and Croghan National School. 

What does a week look like for you in the Summer and then in season? This summer was quite busy with Connacht Rugby’s HelloFresh summer camps, tag rugby in Creggs and with "Her Outdoors" in association with Roscommon Sports Partnership. One of the highlights of my summer was taking part in "Camp Ability" which is a five day camp for kids with additional needs. Creggs RFC hosted the camp and it was one of the first of its kind in Ireland. I'm honored to have a job where I can be in the service of others on such occasions.

Now that rugby season is up and running, I have many schools to visit on a weekly basis. One day I'll be in Monksland and Athlone and another day I'm in Elphin, Boyle, Castlerea and soon Strokestown. I still help with coaching CBS Roscommon Juniors and the Mercy College Roscommon Girls' team as well.

What do you love about being an RDO? I love meeting new people and making connections through rugby. Working with young children & youths is exciting and their enthusiasm keeps me grounded and helps me to do my job to the best of my abilities. 

Why are RDOs important? RDOs are vital to the growth of the game in connacht. They help connect the schools and clubs in recruitment and player identification and development. We also bring the game we love to the wider community by getting involved in local Sports Partnerships and County Council initiatives.