7 / 44
5
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