Biography
Michael Joseph Kiernan, born on January 17, 1961, in Cork, Ireland, is a former international rugby union player who had a distinguished career playing for Ireland and the British and Irish Lions. Known for his exceptional skills as a centre, Kiernan’s contributions to the sport have left a lasting legacy.
Teams Played For and Years
- Dolphin RFC: Played club rugby for Dolphin RFC during his career.
International Caps
Michael Kiernan earned 43 caps for the Ireland national rugby union team from 1982 to 1991. He scored a total of 308 points for Ireland, including 6 tries, 40 conversions, 62 penalties, and 6 drop goals.
Most Important Moments in His Sports Career
- Ireland Debut: 1982, marking the beginning of a successful international career.
- British and Irish Lions Tour: 1983, toured New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions.
- 1987 Rugby World Cup: Played in three games, scoring 1 try, 7 conversions, 5 penalties, and 1 drop goal, totaling 37 points in the tournament.
Early Life and Education
Michael Kiernan attended Presentation Brothers College, Cork (PBC), where he began to develop his rugby skills. He comes from a family with a strong rugby tradition, with his uncles Tom Kiernan and Mick Lane also being Irish internationals and Lions players.
Playing Career
Kiernan’s playing career was marked by his consistent performances as a centre. He was known for his reliable kicking, strategic playmaking, and ability to score points under pressure.
International Career
- Ireland: Earned 43 caps, scoring 308 points.
- Scoring Breakdown: 6 tries, 40 conversions, 62 penalties, and 6 drop goals.
- British and Irish Lions: Selected for the 1983 tour to New Zealand, showcasing his talents on an international stage.
World Cup Participation
- 1987 Rugby World Cup: Represented Ireland, playing in three matches and scoring a total of 37 points. His performance included 1 try, 7 conversions, 5 penalties, and 1 drop goal.
Legacy and Contributions
Michael Kiernan’s legacy in rugby is characterized by his outstanding scoring ability and his contribution to Ireland’s international rugby success during the 1980s. His familial ties to rugby added to his prominence, as he continued the legacy of his uncles, Tom Kiernan and Mick Lane.
Kiernan’s career is celebrated for his skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. His performances on the field have inspired many young players, and his impact on the game remains significant in the history of Irish rugby.
Personal Life
Michael Kiernan is also known for his family connections in rugby. His uncle Tom Kiernan was a notable Irish international and Lions player, as was his maternal uncle Mick Lane. Michael has three children: Alison, James, and Paul.
Kiernan’s life after rugby continues to reflect his passion for the sport, and his legacy as one of Ireland’s great rugby players endures.