it’s all Whyte for star Ethan

it’s all Whyte for star Ethan

22 October 2025

CROSSGAR rugby star Ethan Whyte has been awarded an international cap for Ireland’s U-18 rugby league side in the Home Nations tournament.

Ethan — who was 17 when he was handed his debut — lined out in games against England, Scotland and Wales back in May, June and July, before receiving the cap for his three appearances last week.

It represents a milestone moment for the Down High School student, who boats the unique status of having played to a high level in both codes of the sport, union and league.

He has come a long way from first taking to the pitch for Wellington and Cooke Rugby Clubs aged 11. 

A further two seasons, with Ballynahinch RFC, led to a trial with Rugby League Ireland side Featherstone Rovers — a club that has opened doors for the full-back.

Whyte’s performances with the Rovers, namely against renowned English side Widnes, resulted in an invitation to tryout for Ireland’s Elite Pathways Programme (EPP) and as he shone once more, he was selected to travel for training in Manchester.

The EPP could offer an opportunity for the local talent to take the next step in his rugby career, as he will now stake his claim for a place in the squad at next summer’s U-19 European Championships in the French Pyrenees.

The opportunities and achievements to date have not come without effort and while Whyte admits he has hard to work extremely hard, he knows it all has been worth it.

“A lot of sacrifice has had to be made,” said Ethan.

“It’s an English sport and I’ve had to travel over there regularly, going to Rochdale for training with Ireland U-18s every other weekend. You’re giving up weekends and it can hinder school, but it’s a great feeling to pull on that jersey. 

“You feel proud to represent your country and it means a lot to me and my family.”

And Ethan says he would love to pursue rugby as a career and explained the EPP can help achieve that, if he can join the programme and stick it out.

While the rising star dreams of turning professional and playing rugby for a living, as the only Ulster native in the running for the EPP, he selflessly has ambitions outside of his own interests.

“My main goal is to promote rugby league in the North of Ireland. We have a great talent pool, but I was the only one to go to the EPP trials and I would like to help progress the sport here,” he added.

Now, with a first international cap under his belt, Whyte will continue to train towards adding to his collection in France next June and July.