Ulster Schools' Cup Final 2016

Similarly I am pleased that many of the Principals and and Masters in charge of Rugby from our participating schools are also joining us today. Without their support and continued commitment to the game, rugby in Ulster could not flourish. I hope that you enjoy the occasion and this rare opportunity to socialise with colleagues away from the normal day-to-day challenges which you face. Another group to whom the Schools’ Committee owes much gratitude for their assistance throughout the season is the Ulster Society of Rugby Football Referees and I offer best wishes to today’s officials, led by referee Stuart Gaffikin. I hope they have an enjoyable game without controversy. There are many people working behind the scenes to ensure the success of schools’ rugby and the development of schools’ players in Ulster and I thank them all. Including the members of the Schools’ Committee for their dedication to develop our game and the administration of all our competitions; the administrative staff at Ulster Rugby, particularly Jill and Lesley; our PRO, ‘Barney’ McGonigle who ensures that schools’ rugby gets unsurpassed coverage in the press; the Ulster Rugby professional staff, under the direction of Kieran Campbell, who are supporting the development of players and coaches in schools and, of course, all those coaches and assistants who are working with our young players. Without this contribution, schools’ rugby in Ulster would be in a much poorer place. Finally, I trust that today will be an occasion to remember with all involved proving themselves as excellent ambassadors for their schools and for our great game. I wish the coaches, under the leadership of Dan Soper and Brian Robinson, and the players from both schools all the best for today… may the better side win.

Stephen Black // Chairman Ulster Schools’ Committee

5