The Week 0 matchup between Georgia Tech and Florida State at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland, is set to be a special game for Yellow Jackets punter David Shanahan. Shanahan, a native of Castleisland, County Kerry, Ireland, is believed to be the first Ireland native to receive a full scholarship to play American college football. This game will give him the opportunity to play in his home country, a dream come true for the senior player.
Shanahan’s journey to American college football was not a straightforward one. Growing up in Ireland, he excelled in rugby and Gaelic football, but as he approached adulthood, he sought a new challenge. He decided to try his hand at American football, specifically punting, and eventually made the bold decision to move to Australia to train at Prokick Australia, a renowned academy for punters. With the support of his parents, Shanahan embarked on this journey, working hard to hone his skills and pursue his dream of playing college football in the United States.
After impressing coaches and recruiters, Shanahan received a scholarship offer from Georgia Tech and committed to the program in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, his arrival in Atlanta was delayed, but he continued to work on his game with the help of Prokick alum Tom Hackett in Utah. Shanahan made his debut for the Yellow Jackets in 2021 and has since become a key player on the team, showcasing his punting skills and adapting to the nuances of American football.
Off the field, Shanahan has also adjusted well to life in the United States, excelling academically and integrating seamlessly with his teammates. His upcoming game in Ireland will be a special moment for him, as it will be the first time his family will be able to watch him play in person. Shanahan is looking forward to sharing his culture with his teammates, including introducing them to local delicacies like blood pudding, a traditional Irish dish.
As Shanahan prepares to take the field in his home country, he reflects on the journey that brought him to this moment. From his humble beginnings in Ireland to his success as a college football player in the United States, Shanahan’s story is one of determination, hard work, and a passion for the game. His presence in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic is a testament to his perseverance and the support of those who believed in his talent and potential.