Rugby

(Vince Lombardi 1913-1970)

Our rugby teams performed admirably throughout the season culminating in two major trophies. The third XV had a fantastic season defeating all in their path, culminating in a superb victory against a ‘closed’ Methody 4^th XV in the Cup. My thanks go to Mr Creighton and Mr Dickson for a truly inspirational season. Who could forget Casablanca?  The Medallion XV won the Medallion plate defeating Foyle comfortably in the final. They had been knocked out of the main competition 12-5 by Regent who went on to lose narrowly in he Shield final. My thanks go to Mr Irwin and Mr Martin for another very good season.

The 1^st XV were knocked out by Ballymena in the Schools’ Cup, despite having out-played their opponents in the first-half. There were some very good performances throughout the season and the pack in particular was a match for any side. My thanks go to Mr McCarey and Mr Moles for their tireless work throughout the season.

The 2^nd XV had a fantastic season despite losing to Methody in controversial fashion. They lost only a handful of games all season and showed much promise for next year. My thanks go to Mr Johnston in his rookie year as coach.

The Under 14 team progressed very well, the highlight being a well-deserved victory against a useful RBAI side. It is important that these boys continue to develop their skills and the pattern of the game if they are to succeed in the Medallion Shield. Mr Hughes and Mr Stewart were a great help to me and a very positive influence on the boys throughout the season.

The Under 13 teams competed well, with some strong performances by the A and B teams. There is considerable potential in this year group if they are prepared to work hard and develop their listening as well as their playing skills. My thanks go to Mr Neill, Mr Budden and Mr Robinson for developing the skill-base of what is such an important year group.

The Under 12 team finished the season on a high winning the Plate competition at the Coleraine tournament.  My thanks go to Mr Moffett, Mr Young, Mr Jamison, Mr Bell and Mr Alexander for their considerable efforts on a Saturday morning.

Statistically the vast majority of teams performed the same if not better than last year. We defeated RBAI at Under 13, Under14, and thirds. This has not been achieved for many years. We congratulate Blair Nangle for representing Irish Schools’ and to Conor Spence for reaching the Ulster Under 18 squad.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Young for the contribution that he has made to the Rugby Club over the years. His tireless work as a coach and his fervent support in all endeavours has been truly inspirational. On behalf of all the Rugby Club I would like to wish him a very happy and blessed retirement, and remind him that there is always a pair of lost property boots available if he ever wishes to help with Form I on a Saturday morning.