the moment johnny knew he was having children, he was certain of one thing: he would never pressure them into playing rugby. he never wanted any of his children to feel like they had to follow in his footsteps, and although rugby was a sport that he played with all the children, he never put any of you in clubs unless you showed an interest.

and you had.

rory played, but not seriously, and conor was into hurling like uncle joey, but you? his youngest child and only daughter?

you were a rugby girl, through and through.

johnny spent hours with you out on the field in the back of the garden, practicing your running and throwing the ball, and when you showed your interest in joining a team and later confirmed you were wanted to go professional, johnny had been proud.

but also scared.

scared because he knew the pressure he put on himself at your age to perform. to be the best. he’s johnny kavanagh — famous irish rugby player, which means that you, his daughter, will be getting a lot of attention. and god, if he isn’t proud of you. you’re just like him, and the whole family rally around to watch your games at tommen with the girls team.

he’s scared because he knows what can happen. injury. pain. pressure. dieting. stress.

and he doesn’t want that to happen to you. doesn’t want to be your coach first and dad second. he wants to be dad first, always.

shannon had of coursed soothed him, explaining that they’re both there for you, and that if you was struggling, johnny would be the first one to notice.

so now he’s in the back field with you. it’s early, and you’re running laps around the pitch with him.