Career
He played as a fullback. He had 26 caps for Ireland, scoring 5 tries and 2 conversions, 25 points in aggregate. He played club rugby for London Irish and Harlequins.
Staples played at the 1991 Rugby World Cup and at the 1995 Rugby World Cup.
He played 5 times at the Five Nations, in 1991, 1992, 1995, 1996 and 1997. During his playing career Staples weighed well over 82 kg and was 1.88m in height.
He is best remembered for being a fearless player. Who was unfortunate to suffer a couple of severe injuries during his career.