Irish schoolboy Stevie Mulrooney sprung to prominence in November 2023 following his appearance on the ultra-popular RTE show The Late Late Toy Show.
Singing Ireland’s call on the show, Mulrooney was joined on stage by Irish internationals Peter O’Mahony and Bundee Aki in a moment that had the youngster saying, “It’s the best day of my life!”.
It wasn’t just O’Mahony and Aki who Mulrooney as the Kilkenny caught the eye of those at the IRFU who, along with Irish back row Josh van der Flier, invited the youngster to sing Ireland’s call before the team’s 2024 Guinness Six Nations clash at the Aviva Stadium.
Setting the tone early, Mulrooney carried himself like a true champion as he belted out the words beautifully.
From here, the Irish team did the rest as they scored six tries in a 36 – 0 win over the Azzurri.
Speaking post-match, Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was full of praise for Stevie.
“Oh wow. I tell you, I was actually saying before the game I was just watching him the whole time.
“I didn’t know whether he was standing with his mother or not but when I realised the other lady (Dalton) was not his mother and was singing the national anthem for the Italians… his confidence was amazing and I actually thought ‘I wish our lads are going to be like that’.
“He’s got his shoulders back, he was ready.
“He was waving to the crowd, stood there on his own. I thought: ‘this kid’s got it all’.
“He was amazing. He nailed it, didn’t he? It was a great start.” Said Farrell.
Well done to Stevie, who inspired the team and the nation, with many calling for him to sing the anthem at every home match!
Sign In