Sam Kildunne: The Underestimated Talent Making a Name for Himself in Rugby

As the younger brother of England's World Cup-winning sensation Ellie Kildunne, Sam Kildunne has often been overshadowed by his sibling's achievements. However, he is quickly carving out his own path in the rugby world, earning recognition for his speed, trickery, and elusiveness on the pitch. Having scored on his debut for Ampthill in the Championship, Kildunne has also impressed in the Safari 7s in Kenya, finishing as top try-scorer overall. His dream is to represent Great Britain in the world sevens series, emulating his sister's international success.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sam Kildunne, the younger brother of Ellie Kildunne, is making a name for himself in rugby, despite being underestimated by others.
  • Kildunne scored on his debut for Ampthill in the Championship, a 45-24 victory over Cambridge, and followed that with a successful stint at the Safari 7s in Kenya.
  • He finished as top try-scorer overall at the Safari 7s, demonstrating his speed and trickery on the pitch.
  • Kildunne's dream is to represent Great Britain in the world sevens series, a goal he shares with his sister Ellie.
  • Despite being smaller than many of his peers, Kildunne relies on his pace, footwork, and evasive skills to outmaneuver opponents.
  • He has been praised for his commitment to his craft, having spent hours training with his sister Ellie during the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Kildunne's family has a strong rugby background, with his mother and father supporting him throughout his career.
  • He is currently living with a former Loughborough University colleague, Seb Smith, and is expecting to apply for graduate schemes and job opportunities in the future.

Statistics:

  • 23-year-old Kildunne has already made a significant impact in the Championship, scoring on his debut for Ampthill.
  • He finished as top try-scorer overall at the Safari 7s in Kenya, demonstrating his speed and trickery on the pitch.
  • Kildunne weighs around 13st 7lbs, making him slightly smaller than many of his peers.
  • He has spent years training with his sister Ellie, including during the Covid-19 pandemic.
  • Kildunne's family has a strong rugby background, with his mother and father supporting him throughout his career.

Sources:

  • Instagram/Sam Kildunne
  • BBC Rugby - "Sam Kildunne: The underdog with a chance to make a name for himself"
  • Rugby World - "Sam Kildunne: The sibling rivalry that's driving him to success"
  • Daily Mail - "Sam Kildunne: The young winger with a big future in rugby"