In this player profile, Sports Editor Dara Smith-Naughton gets to know one of UCD’s own footballers, Danú Kinsella-Bishop.

Age: 

21

Height: 

5’11

Preferred Position: 

Striker

League of Ireland 2023 stats: 

2 goals in 5 appearances

Hometown: 

Rathfarnham

Course of Study at UCD: 

Information Communication with English (Joint Honours)

Favourite player of all time:

My favourite player of all time is Messi. However, my inspiration growing up would probably be Fernando Torres or Didier Drogba. 

Moment and/or match which made you fall in love with football:

Moment:

I’d have to say the 2012 Champions League final that took place in Munich between Chelsea vs Bayern. I was 10 and had been playing football for years by then, but I would have to say that was a moment that made me realise how much I love the game. 

Match:

Leeds vs Spurs 2010 FA Cup. I was 8 and the game was end to end. It went to a replay and my Dad and I were buzzing. 

Favourite goal you’ve scored: 

Although it was a shame we didn’t get anything from the game, I would say my favorite goal I’ve ever scored is the opener against Bohemians at Dalymount park on St. Patrick’s Day this year. 

Favourite teammate: 

Ciaran Behan (Beaner)

The worst thing about being a footballer: 

Any injury. Such a difficult thing to deal with mentally. 

Proudest moment as a footballer: 

Scoring my first professional goal against Sligo Rovers in the LOI premier division

Career goals: 

My goal is to be a professional footballer and be able to do it as a full-time career for as long as possible. It’s something I’ve been manifesting since I was 4 and I won’t be stopping until I make it. I’ve always had the dream of playing in a European match (Champions League). Even if it’s only 1 game.

Dara-Smith Naughton – Sports Editor