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WELCOME FROM
DANSKE BANK
The Schools’ Cup is one of the most highly
anticipated sporting events of the year, with
a strong following of pupils past, present
and future from across the Province.
It is the second oldest rugby competition in
the world and yet continues to evolve and
develop. This year saw the addition of the
Danske Bank Girls Schools’ Cup competition
and of course today’s final is taking place in
the world class new Kingspan Stadium for
the first time.
Over the years the Schools’ Cup has
showcased many outstanding young players
who have gone on to represent Ireland on
the international stage. Andrew Trimble,
Chris Henry and Paddy Jackson, to name a
few, are now household names and stars of
the rugby world. A look at the Ulster squad
in recent years gives a clear indication of
how many have used the competition as a
stepping stone to move into a professional
playing career. At Danske Bank we take
great pride in our role supporting the
development of such amazing young talent.
I would like to give special thanks to the
Ulster Branch who have worked alongside
the Ulster Schools’ Committee to make this
tournament possible, and the welcome they
have shown to Danske Bank at the many
events and fixtures leading to this final.
For the players from RBAI and Wallace
HS, this will be the most important match
of their school rugby career. Both teams
have shown grit and determination to make
it to this final and I would like to take this
opportunity to congratulate the teams, their
captains and their teachers. On behalf of
everyone at Danske Bank, I wish them all
the very best of luck on this memorable
occasion.
Gerry Mallon
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Chief Executive
Danske Bank UK
Today marks ten years of collaboration between Danske Bank and
the Ulster Schools’ Cup and it continues to be a privilege to support
this historic competition.