Tony Buckley is a prime example of how with hard work, progress can be made to International standard. After playing U/20 with Shannon in the second row, he lingered around the 3rd XV and 2nd XV for a period playing in positions ranging from No.8, 2nd row and prop. He established himself as first choice prop for the club and was instrumental in AIL Titles. Professional rugby beckoned and after a spell with Connacht he was given an opportunity with Munster in 2005. His progress to an International cap was never linear, but in 2007 he was included in Ireland’s tour to Argentina and his first cap came when he replaced Bryan Young in a 22-20 defeat. His first nine caps came off the bench, but in 2009 he made his starting debut against Canada in Thomond Park. He was selected for the Ireland Rugby world Cup squad 2011.
http://www.espnscrum.com/ireland/rugby/player/15614.html