McFarland's rugby journey began at Headfort School and
Clongowes Wood College, two institutions with a strong tradition of producing rugby talent. Before turning professional, he gained valuable experience playing for Navan RFC, DUFC, and
Clontarf RFC in the All-Ireland League. McFarland achieved notable success during his youth, winning the Leinster Schools senior cup with Clongowes and an All-Ireland league medal with Clontarf. He also played a crucial role in Trinity Rugby's promotion to the AIL 1A, scoring match-winning tries in both the semi-final and final against Ballynahinch and Ballymena. Before turning professional, McFarland scored a hattrick against the
Barbarian Football Club and also represented
Watsonians RFC. ==Professional career==