Irish Kicker Andy Quinn Aims for NFL Success After Boston College

Andy Quinn, a Galway native with strong ties to Kilkenny, is making waves in American football after a successful first season with the Boston College Eagles. As the sport gains traction among Irish athletes, Quinn’s journey reflects a growing trend of international talent in the NFL. His recent visit to St Martin’s GAA Club in Muckalee during the holiday season has generated significant excitement among local supporters.

Quinn, 19, has quickly established himself as a promising kicker in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), one of the premier collegiate leagues in the United States. His connection to Kilkenny runs deep, with his grandmother, Sarah Quinn from Castlecomer, instilling pride in his heritage. “My gran always made sure that my Kilkenny roots were there,” he shared, highlighting the importance of family in his journey.

The path to American football was not straightforward for Quinn. Initially a rugby player, he participated in Ireland’s Kicking King competition, competing against 180 participants. His performance led him to the final at the Aviva Stadium in front of 45,000 spectators. In 2022, at just 17 years old, he emerged victorious, a life-changing moment that propelled him into the world of American football. “I definitely didn’t think I’d be playing division one college football in America three years later,” Quinn reflected on the unexpected turn of events.

Following his success, he attended the NFL Academy in Loughborough, England, but faced challenges in securing college offers after his first season. Undeterred, Quinn traveled to the United States to participate in Kohl’s Kicking Camps, which are renowned for showcasing kickers, punters, and long snappers. His efforts paid off, as he climbed the ranks and was ultimately recognized as the 12th best kicker and 4th best punter in his recruiting class.

Quinn’s commitment to Boston College was influenced by the school’s strong Irish connections and its proximity to Galway. “Boston is probably the most Irish city in the country,” he noted. “It just made so much sense for me to go there.” His decision came amidst a growing recognition of Irish kickers in the sport, with players like Charlie Smyth from Mayobridge and Daniel Whelan from Enniskerry making significant impacts in the NFL.

As a full-time student-athlete, Quinn is also dedicated to using his platform to raise awareness for causes close to his heart. He serves as an ambassador for 22q Ireland, an organization focused on supporting families affected by 22q11 deletion syndrome, a condition that impacts his brother, Matthew. “Because so many good people have helped me, I feel obligated to help others,” he expressed, emphasizing the importance of community support.

During his freshman year, Quinn did not see extensive game time but made an impression with his performance. He achieved a net average of 55 yards per punt, the highest in the country, including a standout 68-yard punt against the SMU Mustangs in November. As he prepares for the 2026 season, he is focused on securing a starting position and ultimately aiming for a coveted spot in the NFL.

“In my head, I’m thinking that if I have the God-given ability, it’s down to me to put in the due diligence and the time into making sure that I get better in college,” Quinn stated, reflecting on his aspirations. “There are only 32 jobs in the world for what I’m looking at, so the odds are still really low, but I’m just looking forward to the season and building up my reputation.”

With his determination and skill, Andy Quinn is not only making a name for himself in American football but also inspiring others along the way.