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Learning the trade from a legend: Dannah O’Brien and the Johnny Sexton connection

“You put that ball down on the tee, 40 metres from goal, and here goes a young one from Kilbride with the world looking at you. What’s in your head?”

Published: Friday, 30 October 2026 at 5:11 PM
Learning the trade from a legend: Dannah O’Brien and the Johnny Sexton connection
Key Things to Know
  • Johnny Sexton is holding his first coaching session with the Ireland women's team setup, benefiting fly-half Dannah O'Brien.
  • Sexton clarified that his IRFU coaching role requires individual teams and provinces to reach out to schedule sessions.
  • O'Brien converted four of five kicks during Ireland's recent first Test victory over South Africa.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Ireland fly-half Dannah O'Brien is set to learn from Johnny Sexton as the former Ireland captain holds his first coaching session with the women's national team pathway. Sexton, who accepted an expanded coaching position with the Irish Rugby Football Union to mentor national teams up to the senior level, emphasized that sessions must be initiated directly by the squads. O'Brien previously expressed great excitement about learning kicking techniques from the legendary playmaker.

The development comes during Ireland's tour in South Africa, where O'Brien converted four of five kicks in their first Test victory over the Springbok Women. Under head coach Scott Bemand, O'Brien has become an essential starter at fly-half, amassing considerable experience alongside Leinster teammate Aoife Dalton. Ireland is aiming to secure a historic series victory in their upcoming second Test against South Africa.

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