Although he played Gaelic football as a youngster, Gilsenan ultimately chose rugby union when, as a teenager, either avenue was open to him.
Gilesenan cited his biggest influence in his chosen profession as coming from his family and 'role-model', Irish rugby player; Brian O'Driscoll.
[3] Three successful years in Leinster's academy meant many International caps for Ireland at various youth levels.
Highlights in the years that followed included captaining the club in their run to the British & Irish Cup semi-final (2016-2017 season).
[4] He was not named in London Irish's squad update in August 2020,[5] it was later confirmed he had been forced to retire for medical reasons.