St Mary's College RFC Yearbook 2020-21

ST. MARY’S

COLLEGE

RUGBY

FOOTBALL

CLUB

YEARBOOK

2020-21

Passionately supporting

rugby since 1900

CLUB STRUCTURE

Trustees

L B/ IRFU Delegate e

em

Manag ment Committ ee

Disciplinary

Committee

Cl ub For

um

ommunications

Working Group

s

C orporate

Finance,

House &

Sponsorship

Administratio on

Ground ds

Working

& Governanc

e

Work in ng

Gr oup

W orking Gr ou

p Grou

p

Ru

Wo

gby

orking

mbership

orking

C

Health & Safety

Group

Working

Gr

u M

em

Wo

G

roup

Group

A

Members

Activities &

undraising

Events

F

Working

Group

Hon Match/Fixtures Secretary

Michael Fanagan

Chairman of Rugby

Alan Shirley

Child Welfare Officer

Pearl Healy

House & Grounds

Gareth Roche

Officers

Vinnie Cunningham, Patrick Crawford,

Richard Halpin, Gareth Roche,

Colin Smyth & Liam Byrne

Trustees

Liam Birkett, Brian Fanning,

Brendan Spring & James P. Sweeney

Ground Advertising

Morgan Crowe

Health & Safety Officer

David Mowlds

Pitch Assessor

Gareth Roche

ST. MARY'S COLLEGE

RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB

Leinster Branch Representative

(Acting)

Michael Fanagan

Press Relations Officer

Maurice Davin

Membership Registrar

John Bainbridge

IRFU Registration

David Donohoe

International Tickets

Ronnie McBrien & Michael Fanagan

St. Mary’s College P.P.U. Rep.

Maurice Davin

Covid Officer

David Mowlds

Physiotherapy

David Lyons

All-Ireland League Match Day

Marie Hammond & Jack Ebbs

Medical & Doping Officer

Ossie Fogarty

Bar Secretary

Robert McHugh

Club Administrator

Marie Hammond

Bar Manager

Tony McGuinness

Groundsman

Peter O’Kelly

Templeville Road, Templeogue, Dublin 6W.

Tel: 490 0440 Fax: 490 1089

Web:www.stmaryscollegerfc.com

President

Vinnie Cunningham

Captain

Richard Halpin

Chairman (Acting)

David A. Fanagan

Vice-President

Patrick Crawford

Junior Vice-President

Gareth Roche

Immediate Past President

Michael O’Flaherty

Hon. Secretary

Colin Smyth

Hon. Treasurer

Liam Byrne

Photography:

We would like to thank Ian Murray for the photography included in this Yearbook.

Cover photo: Club Captain, Richie Halpin in action (Photo: John Crothers, JC Sports Photography).

Passionately supporting

rugby since 1900

3

o

WELCOME MESSAGE

FROM THE CLUB PRESIDENT

Dear fellow members and supporters,

I am indeed delighted and privileged to have been elected

President of St Mary’s College Rugby Football Club for the

2020-21 season.

It is a particularly special honour for me as my late father

John was also President (1998 -1999). The late, great Matt

Gilsenan and his son John being the only other father and

son Presidents.

I have said on many occasions that I believe that this club

of ours is among the best in Ireland, boasting as it does, a

clubhouse, a gym and other facilities which are second to

none. Our many dedicated volunteers help to make it so

by their tireless work in so many aspects, continuing, as

they do, the much-envied club tradition of rugby

excellence. The welcoming hospitality of our members is also

hugely admired by the many visitors to our club.

Our successes are evident at all playing levels, from our 1st XV,

through our Junior teams, our Youths and Minis.

Down through the years the club has produced 12 British and Irish

Lions (including a captain); 33 Men’s internationals (including 6

captains); 13 Women’s internationals (including a captain).

Our administrators have worked in the Leinster Branch (including

3 Presidents) and the IRFU (including 1 President).

As we are committed to maintaining the great traditions and

legacies of our predecessors, it places the responsibility on all of

us to ensure that we hand over our club to the next generation in

as good condition, if not better, than that which we inherited.

The Covid 19 pandemic has presented all of us with varying

degrees of uncertainty in our daily lives. In the life of the club, this

manifests itself with a set of many challenges, the greatest of

which is financial. Fundraising, as we have come to know, it will

be severely curtailed as customary events will not take place.

Therefore, we should all commit to helping the club by signing up

for our brand-new Monthly Draw for just €10 per month and a

guaranteed prize of €1,000! The Draw will also include

attendance prizes and promotions and will be held in the Bar on

the 3rd Friday of each month beginning on Friday, September

18th. By participating you will help to defray the many expenses

of our great club. So please sign up now by downloading the new

App ClubZap.

Yours sincerely in rugby

VINNIE CUNNINGHAM

President, St. Mary’s College RFC, 2020-2021

5

WELCOME MESSAGE

FROM THE CLUB CAPTAIN

As Club Captain for the 2020/2021 season, it is an immense honour for me to

proudly extend a warm welcome to all of you. Even though this strange

season means that we have not been able to enjoy each other’s company

during and after matches, your presence is sensed.

At the outset, a special thanks must go to my fellow players, coaches, our

management (in particular Paudge McGill), Director of Rugby, Alan Shirley

and the Rugby Council. This year has brought unprecedented challenges.

However, everyone has risen to these challenges to ensure that all

precautions have been taken so that we are kept safe and ready to return

to play when circumstances allow. The commitment across the board

has been exemplary. I would also like to recognise the efforts of last

year’s Captain, Tommer O’Reilly and President, Michael “Flatts”

O’Flaherty. Tommer and Flatts navigated us through what turned out

to be a very difficult year, as the Covid pandemic cut short our season.

We retain our All-Ireland League division 1B status this year. This

league is unrelentingly tough, typified by such close points spreads

from 1 st to 10 th place, over the last number of seasons. We look forward

to more of these challenging fixtures around the country, when we are able to

resume play.

This year’s squad has retained almost all of its players, with energetic and

exciting prospects all over the park and the usual suspects still putting in shifts.

Many of our younger players have gained crucial experience in the AIL, and I

believe that this young playing group truly has the makings of a great Mary’s

team. Steve Hennessey is ever present directing proceedings, with unshakable

commitment. Jamie Cornett takes command of the forwards, adding his valuable

years of experience with this team once again. Mark Sexton has come in this year

to replace Barry Lynn. Barry was a great coach and an invaluable man to have

around Marys. His passion for the club was evident and we wish him and his

young family all the best. Mark brings a vast pool of rugby knowledge and nous

to our set up, and he has proven an incredible addition so far. A huge thank you

must also go to our S&C coach Marcus O’Driscoll (2018/2019 Club Captain).

Marcus has worked tirelessly putting in place programmes to keep us match fit

during the pandemic, constantly motivating, adapting and never wavering in the

face of government lockdowns and restrictions.

To our President, Vinnie Cunningham, while this is not an ideal year to serve as

Club President, we are lucky to have you at the helm. Over the years, Vinnie has

always been a great supporter of the Club and has worked behind the scenes to

ensure the future of Mary’s is secure and bright, never looking for any plaudits

along the way. I look forward to working with Vinnie this year and wish him and

the other officers of the Club the very best.

On behalf of St. Mary’s, I would like to thank all of our sponsors, in particular Jim

Coffey and Susan Spence of SoftCo. In addition, a big thanks must go to Gerry

McCormack (G-Mack), Charlie Chawke, Fanagans and Hugh McCarthy. Your

continued commitment to the club is valued highly, especially during these

difficult times; without sponsors our club would find it difficult to survive.

It is hard to foresee what this year holds in store for us. What it has shown me, is

that club rugby is alive and well and it is about far more than just rugby. Ironically,

during its absence, its importance has never been more evident. It is a support

system, a pillar of our personal communities, of which we are all very lucky to be

a part. We truly cannot wait to welcome you all back through the Templeville

gates once again and pick up where we left off.

Our club motto has never been more appropriate, Fidelitas in Arduis.

RICHIE HALPIN

Captain, St. Mary’s College RFC, 2020-2021

7

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MESSAGE FROM THE

PRESIDENT OF THE IRFU

It is my privilege as President of the Irish Rugby Football Union

to extend my best wishes to St. Mary’s College RFC for the

2020-’21 season.

Clubs earned the right to complete pre-season and stage

competitive fixtures in September and October by putting

the safety of members at the heart of their operations. This

season will be like no other, but the reputation of

community spirit in clubs and their importance as a vital

outlet for health and well-being has only been enhanced.

I congratulate the clubs of Ireland whose players and

members – male and female – valiantly played their part

in holding the line against a deadly virus.

I also commend the clubs for their supportive role in

consultation with the IRFU in bringing about the agreed modified

programme for the 2020/’21 season in which player welfare and

COVID-19 risk mitigation were the main considerations. The

pandemic has impacted greatly on our clubs – on and off the

pitch – and the Union demonstrated its backing by its support,

including the allocation of monies provided by the Government.

While the principal spotlight of our game focuses on our National

and Provincial teams, the IRFU’s resolve for the well being of

men’s and women’s club fare is evidenced in the various

initiatives put in place to help increase the vibrancy of the club

scene, of which this season’s one-off modified structure is an

example.

After extensive consultation with the clubs I believe a most

attractive and novel competitive fixtures pre-programme

emerged across the men’s and women’s game which saw the

creation of the Energia Community Series. In keeping rugby

local, we have given ourselves every chance of completing a

successful season.

Meantime, I outline the gratitude of the IRFU to Energia, the

official energy partner to Irish rugby, highlighted by title

sponsorship of the men’s and women’s All-Ireland League

competitions.

DES KAVANAGH

President, Irish Rugby Football Union, 2020-2021

9

MESSAGE FROM THE

PRESIDENT OF LEINSTER RUGBY

I welcome the invitation to contribute to the annual St. Mary’s College RFC

yearbook and do so in a manner that reflects my admiration for a club that I

have been acquainted with during my career as a player and rugby

administrator.

I wish to congratulate Vinnie Cunningham on his election as Club President

and on behalf of all involved in Leinster Rugby wish him and all the Club’s

Committee, Members, Players, Volunteers and Supporters an enjoyable and

successful 2021. Vinnie has the distinction of following in the footsteps of his

father John in becoming Club President and it is an honour richly deserved

in view of his contribution to his Club, Leinster, Ireland and the Lions.

St. Mary’s has always been a welcoming and inclusive club to all as players

and supporters. The club has made a significant and positive contribution

to Irish Rugby since it’s foundation in 1900. A visitor to the welcoming

Templeville Road clubhouse will be acutely aware of the rich legacy of the

club and its status as one of the most successful clubs in Leinster.

Portraits of the legendary 39 Club players who have represented Ireland

and the Lions (12 Players) adorn the walls of the clubhouse bar.

During my period of involvement in Leinster Rugby I have been fortunate

to have benefitted from the knowledge, wisdom and dedication of the St. Mary’s

Club representatives serving on the Branch. These include John Hussey (President

of the IRFU & Leinster), Niall Rynne (President of Leinster and designate Chair of

the IRFU Management Committee), Patrick Crawford (Chair of the Leinster Senior

Clubs Committee) who have followed in the footsteps of D O’Brien and John

Doddy, all of whom have represented the core values of our great sport.

As a result of the Covid-19 Pandemic the past 9 months have impacted on our

sport and on our clubs and we have faced challenging times. Our sincere thanks to

all the Club members, volunteers and sponsors who have answered the call to

support our clubs during this difficult period. I’m confident that under the

guidance of the officers and the extended members of the coaching and

management committees that your club will soon overcome these challenges.

I look forward to a renewed visit to Templeville and hopefully a visit as President

of Leinster. I have always enjoyed the unique atmosphere of attending a game

there as a neutral or as an opposing supporter. I have fond memories of attending

some of the major clashes in the AIL between St. Mary’s and the southern

brothers of Young Munster, Garryowen and Young Munster and in particular a top

of the table decider in the latter fixture in 1993. St. Mary’s are just one of 4 Leinster

Clubs to have lifted the All-Ireland League title and have done so on two

occasions.

My “home” club of Naas has a long, friendly relationship with St. Mary’s and it

would be remiss of me not to take this one opportunity to record those individuals

who served both our clubs with distinction. Former Ireland captain Jimmy Kelly

played and coached in Naas, Ken Sparrow, former President of St. Mary’s was one

of the key individuals who introduced a Youth Rugby structure in Naas. The

remarkable Joe Carbery whose leadership on and off the field was to result in the

re-emergence of Naas as a force in Leinster rugby and to the acquisition of

Forenaughts. Pat O’Brien has also coached with tremendous success at Youths for

both clubs including bringing an All Ireland title to Naas. Naas players who have

played for St. Mary’s including Seamus Lenehan, Joe O’Reilly, Dermot Fitzsimons,

Mark Cuddihy, Adam Coyle and Cillian Dempsey while Declan Fanning, Steve

Hennessy and Noel McCarthy (and son Nick) have played and coached in the

“short grasslands”.

On behalf of Leinster Rugby I wish all involved in your great club a happy and

enjoyable season and that the New Year brings you and those you hold dear joy

and happiness into your lives.

Until we meet again “Keep The Faith”.

JOHN WALSH

President, Leinster Rugby, 2020-2021

11

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MESSAGE FROM AIL SPONSOR

We at Energia are extremely proud to have further

strengthened our commitment to Irish rugby since

becoming the Official Energy Partner to the Irish Rugby

Football Union (IRFU) and title sponsor of the Energia

All-Ireland Leagues (AIL). Through our partnership, we

are committed to supporting rugby at all levels

through the teams, clubs and competitions the

breadth of the nation, especially through these trying

times.

Energia understands the value of the AIL and the

importance of fostering and nurturing Irish rugby

clubs and we welcome the IRFU’s introduction of

the Community Series for the coming months. We

look forward to continuing working closely with the

IRFU over the coming years to help facilitate the future

development of rugby in communities up and down the

country through our campaign #PositiveEnergy.

We are delighted to welcome the resumption of Club

rugby at this time and we welcome back all clubs who

were part of the Energia AIL along with a special welcome

to the new teams joining the Women’s divisions. We wish

all clubs the best of luck in what is sure to be a gripping

season ahead.

GARY RYAN

Managing Director,

Energia Customer Solutions

11

Message from SoftCo

Never a dull moment!

After the disappointment of relegation, the latest instalment of the sponsorship of St.

Mary’s College Rugby Club was an impressive promotion charge delivering the league

title and an immediate return to Division 1A. The momentum was fantastic with victories

achieved against the odds. I was fortunate to be in Ballymena when it seemed every

player (and a few of the fans) orchestrated a push over try from under our own posts with

the final play of the match to snatch victory.

We were stalked by Trinity until a ‘winner takes all’ nail biting victory at home was

Now SoftCo achieved into is particularly our via sixth a tactical year delighted master Clubclass to Sponsors support and unbelievable to and St Mary’s sponsor commitment. College St Mary’s RFC, College Our we congratulations

feel RFC, very during much

at this go home. most to outgoing difficult Over President the season past Declan seasons of very Fanning, we little have rugby, Captain developed but Robert continuing Sweeney, a great friendshi commitments. the entire psquad with It the and is

club indeed the and coaching a we most are team. challenging delighted Special that mention time our for support also all goes clubs. has to the helped We amazing congratulate the travelling club grow President fans.

d develop. Vinnie

The

Cunningham,

achievements his committee,

of the club

and

to

the

maintain

club

n

administrator,

such a strong

Marie

brand

Hammond,

in such a

for

tough

the

splendid work they are doing in maintaining equilibrium.

environment We look forward is testimony to St. Mary’s to all solidifying involved. its place in Division 1A this season with an

We experienced, greatly value talented our relationship panel of players with led St by Mary’s new Captain and all Brian the McGovern warm friendships and an we

have exciting

gained, coaching while

team supporting led by Jamie the

club Cornet.

and its teams.

St. Mary’s

is a

special

Club and

we have

been

pleased to

meet so many of your players,

past

and

current,

and

congratulate In October,

SoftCo you on is your launching continued

a major

success. new product

platform,

SoftCo

10, which is

the

with culmination such an admirable of a significant and investment estimable over reputation.

the last 5 years. We are delighted that one of

Congratulations to Richard Halpin on his election to Club Captain. Once again you

the key media events will take place in St. Mary’s and we hope that club members can

Of have

attend course, built another

what we should wish exciting Michaelyoung be an exciting O’Flaherty, squad

day. club and president hopefully and a meaningful his committee competition a successful will

ensue,

so Richard

can

enjoy

fully

the

honour

bestowed

on him.

We

would

like

to congratulate Caelan Doris on his deserved and highly successful elevation to

particularly Finally we would Tom O’Reilly, like to once clubagain captain thank and Marie his Hammond senior team, and an Rynner outstandi for all ing their season

international status.

assistance

throughout

the

year.

We

wish new

President

Kevin Conboy

and all involved

of When with the Covid-19 St season. Mary’s relents College sufficiently, RFC the very it best is our of sincere luck for wish the forthcoming that St Mary’s season. will thrive again

and march back to AIL Division 1A. Hopefully before this season is over, we will have

the opportunity to meet many

of our

St Marys’

friends and

attend some games and

enjoy those

lunches!

Jim Coffey,

with Stay

Chairman, our safe Spon and nsorship best wishes of St. from Mary’s all at College SoftCo RFC. for continued success.

SoftCo.

Chairman,

SoftCo.

@softcogroup /softcotv /softco www.softco.com

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St. Mary’s College RFC

Ulster Bank League Squad 2020-21

RICHIE HALPIN

(Club Captain – Hooker)

AARON O’NEILL

(Out Half)

ADAM McEVOY

(Scrum Half)

ALEX DIX

(Full Back)

BEN WATSON

(Out Half)

CONOR CORCORAN

(Back Row)

CONOR McELEARNEY

(Prop)

CRAIG KENNEDY

(Wing)

DAIRE McCORMACK

(Centre)

DANIEL LYONS

(Back Row)

17

DAVID FANAGAN

(Full Back)

DAVID ASPIL

(Back Row)

DYLAN JAMESON

(2nd Row)

EOIN BYRNE

(2nd Row)

EOIN POWER

(Back Row)

GAVIN O’BRIEN

(Hooker)

GAVIN POTTS

(Back Row)

GEORGE HASSETT

(Prop)

HUGO CONWAY

(Wing)

HUGO DIEPMAN

(2nd Row)

JACK DILGER

(Back Row)

JAMIE KENNEDY

(Full Back)

JOE NOLAN

(Back Row)

KEALIN QUINN

(Prop)

KEITH MANNION

(Prop)

KEVIN O’CONNOR

(Centre)

18

LIAM CORCORAN

(2nd Row)

LIAM CURRAN

(2nd Row)

LORIS NIKOLOV

(2nd Row)

LUKE MANNION

(Full Back)

MARK FOGARTY

(Wing)

MATT TIMMONS

(Centre)

MATTHEW OPPERMANN

(Out Half)

MATTHEW TALBOT

(Wing)

MICHAEL McCORMACK

(Prop)

MICHAEL O’GARA

(Centre)

MYLES CAREY

(Centre)

NIALL HURLEY

(Back Row)

NIALL McENIFF

(Prop)

NICK McCARTHY

(Back Row)

PADDY O’DRISCOLL

(Scrum Half)

PETER STARRETT

(2nd Row)

19

PODGE DUNDON

(Prop)

RONAN WATTERS

(Back Row)

RUAIRI SHIELDS

(Out Half / Full Back)

RYAN O’LOUGHLIN

(Wing / Centre

SEAN BOURKE

(Out Half)

SEAN HEERAN

(Back Row)

STEPHEN O’BRIEN

(Hooker)

TIM MacMAHON

(Centre)

TOM O’REILLY

(Prop)

20

REPRESENTATIVE PLAYERS

CAELAN DORIS

JORDAN LARMOUR

JACK McGRATH

ROBIN COPELAND

RHYS RUDDOCK JONATHAN SEXTON SEAN CRONIN TERRY KENNEDY

MANAGEMENT TEAM 2020-21

STEVEN HENNESSY

Head Coach

JAMIE CORNETT

1st XV Forwards Coach

MARK SEXTON

1st XV Backs Coach

MARCUS O’DRISCOLL

S & C Coach

PAUDGE McGILL

1st XV Manager

RUAIDHRI MORAN

Assistant Manager

GERRY PELOSI

Assistant Manager

GARETH ROCHE

Assistant Manager

COLM McMAHON

Assistant Manager

CONOR O’NEILL

Assistant Manager

ALAN SHIRLEY

Chairman of Rugby

IAN BLOOMER

Referees Affairs Officer

PAUL BRENNAN

J1 Backs Coach

ROBERT SWEENEY

J1 Forwards Coach

PAUL CONLON

J1 Manager

21

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St Mary’s College RFC 10 - 13 Lansdowne FC

Energia Community Series, Templeville Road, 10th October 2020

Overall:

Observing the desolate terraces, the hollow

almost ethereal, resonances of the scant

voices, brings a strange, sad nostalgia, with

memories of gigantic jousts and clamour,

wild, sideline scenes and emotional

animations. Oh’ for those lusty days, the safe

mingling, the healthy fears, not for

contagion but for sporting outcomes.

Looking at those red, yellow and black

stripes; then the much loved star dashed

blue and white regalia appear, stirs the

senses to the their vibrancy and the

youthful, optimistic puissance. Thus the cold,

contumacious, Covid Canopy collapses, as

the sun glints, shimmers, and blinks the eyes.

So joyous hope returns, the game begins.

And what a game it was. Games such as

these do much to boost forbearance and

optimism. Both teams can be proud of

today, as indeed can Steve Hennessy and his

colleagues; and our one time AIL hero, Mark

McHugh (who was indeed most welcome

back) and his. There was an effervescence

about the game, it was played with pace,

skill and uplifting sportsmanship. As is often

the case for St Mary’s, there was noticeable

discrepancy in size between the two sides.

Lansdowne lining out behemoths. They also

had some real top class experience in their

side, especially in their big backrow. Our lads

did not notice.

There was once again a disappointing

aspect, having had a little more possession,

territory, strikes, and actual tries, physically

scored, our penalty count (including a

penalty try) conceded, was higher and so we

lost the game. That said there was very

much to be proud of, with a notable fluidity

and continuity. In the first half when playing

towards the Road end with a strong wind,

we did not use that advantage to kick to

Carvill Corner, that glue spot for defences.

Speaking of which, the home defence was

well organised and effective. Indeed, in allround

high levels, there were some

performances of special note.

The backrow again worked hard. With

periodic exceptions, the lineout was fluid

and great credit must be given to Liam

Corcoran, who runs the lineout efficiently

and makes a major personal contribution.

Action from the

St. Mary’s v

Lansdowne Energia

Community Series

game in

Templeville Road

10.10.2020.

Photo by

JC Sports Photography.

23

flanked by two top wingers. Having said

that, it is almost invidious to mention

individuals today, as every player who took

to the field showed that old Marys’ spirit that

has carried us favourably through 120 years

of history. Although one who must be

mentioned is Jerry Sexton, who is very

welcome back to his old club and to his old

friends. It is a real boost to have Jerry back

after his successful spell in the professional

game. David Fanagan and Nick McCarthy

were missing due to injury, but two other

highly influential players returned from

injury, David Aspil, part of that backrow, and

prop Mick McCormack.

Action from St. Mary’s v Lansdowne Energia Community

Series game in Templeville Road 10.10.2020.

Photo by JC Sports Photography.

(Congratulations to his brother Conor who

made his first senior competitive start in that

backrow).

The class of Myles Carey shone out today, as

he conjured some magic moments, while

unselfishly, he worked in both attack and

cover defence. A person who needs special

mention, Mark Fogarty. Mark is not the

biggest player, but none has a bigger heart.

He is fast, skilful and brave, his work rate is

high; he gets hammered and he is straight

up again, looking to do more. His positional

play improves each game, and his ability to

attack a line is notable. He had a fine game,

Game:

From kick-off it was clear that both sides

were willing to play. Therefore it was a

pleasure to watch. After a number of

attacking phases, with Hugo Diepman and

hard-working Podge Dundon involved; on

seven minutes, Myles made a stinging run

from right to left and made good forward

progression, he gave the ball to the ever

supporting Mark, who made some ground

and gave the ball to flying winger, Mathew

Oppermann. He was in a mangle of players,

he just stepped and subtlety, slalomed

through three, and went over in the Gate

Corner. Mick O’Gara converted comfortably.

Near the end of the half, Lansdowne had a

strong patch with lots of possession and

several phases of attacks on the home line.

The defences stood hard and fast. Then in

injury time, our scrum came under pressure

Action from the

St. Mary’s v

Lansdowne Energia

Community Series

game in

Templeville Road

10.10.2020.

Photo by


24

Podge Dondon is

held up in the

St. Mary’s v

Lansdowne Energia

Community Series

game in

Templeville Road

10.10.2020.

Photo by


on our line and on a third reset, in the Well

Corner, the referee went under the posts

and the score at half time was 7-7.

Unfortunately, we lost the impressive Niall

McEniff to injury in the first half. The second

half Marys stepped up the pace further and

put considerable pressure on Lansdowne. A

fine penalty, Mick O’Gara made the score 10-

7. But the visitors equalised, before going

ahead with about ten minutes to go, and we

could not make up the ground in spite of

great effort. So it ended 10-13.

Post Script:

Losing is never easy, but having played with

undying effort and skill, made today’s loss

more digestible, certainly from the

supporters’ point of view. Showing now,

since games returned, that we can compete

with AIL 1A sides, such as Lansdowne, gives

vital confidence and experience. It will take

a little more time to get the scrum back to

the imperious prowess of last season, the

errors and penalty counts will ameliorate.

Steve has a very fine young coaching team

with him and it augurs well. It was very

good to see a 2012 AIL medal winner, Colm

McMahon (son of Pat, one of the most

dedicated St Marys’ supporters), who Steve

recruited, there today, helping out. He was a

fine player and an exceptional young man,

there is little doubt but he will be a big

success. (He even drives himself now L). We

25

must not lose sight of the work being done

by Steve Hennessy, Jamie Cornett

(congratulations to Eimear and Jamie on the

birth of twin boys. Their names are down

don’t worry), Mark Sexton, the invaluable

Marcus O’Driscoll, Colm, Robert Sweeney

and Paul Brennan. Also the management

under Paudge McGill, Ruaidrí Moran, Ian

Bloomer, Paul Conlon and Conor O’Neill);

this is a tough number under present

conditions. All rugby has to be kept alive,

organised and informed, that falls to the

hard working RC under DoR, Alan Shirley,

with Eoin Quinn, Kevin Conboy, Paudge

McGill and Stephan Shirley. We look forward

to next week’s game away to Naas, Covid

permitting. Please all be patient and support

as much as possible, the club and all those

who are working hard to keep rugby alive

for us. All of us in club, community rugby,

must pull together and try to stay within the

guidelines; and by staying safe, keep others

safe too.

D O’Brien

Squad:

1 N McEniff, 2 R Halpin (Capt), 3 P Dundon,

4 H Diepman, 5 L Corcoran, 6 D Aspil,

7 C Corcoran, 8 R Watters, 9 P O’Driscoll,

10 R Shields, 11 M Oppermann, 12 M O’Gara,

13 M Carey, 14 H Conway, 15 M Fogarty,

16 S O’Brien, 17 M McCormack, 18 J Sexton,

19 N Hurley, 20 A McEvoy, 21 M Timmons.

Principal: Peter J. McEvoy.

Consultants: John M. Fitzpatrick,

Fergus J. Gallagher

Orby Chambers,

7 Coke Lane,

Smithfield,

Dublin 7,

Ireland

Tel: (01) 8729730 Fax: (01) 8724602

Email: info@fgmcsolicitors.ie

Best of luck to St. Mary’s College RFC

for their coming season from

Fitzpatrick Gallagher McEvoy Solicitors

UNDER 20s RUGBY REVIEW

At U20s level the beginning of the season

can often be season defining with the

qualifiers and new players and trying to get

the team to bed in together. With a new

coaching ticket on board with Brian

McGovern (Head Coach), Eddie Devitt

(Backs Coach) and Peter Smyth (Assistant

Coach), we returned to training in the

middle of July which got all the lads brought

into the season objectives.

The qualifiers system was changed last

minute and unfortunately in our two

qualifiers we came up just short. Straight

after we lost the qualifier our objective was

to go unbeaten in Prem 2.

With trips to Galway and Athlone we

managed to do that and in our last game

against Dublin University we managed to

win the league.

The team was captained by Sean Bourke

who led by example both on and off the

pitch. Luke Mannion was a standout player

who scored five try’s in one game, a regular

nominee for man of the match. George

Hassett was also a standout, he played on

both prop and hooker during the season and

even scored try’s. Loris Nikolov who

returned from long term injury and played

great during the season. We discovered

Michael McEvoy can not only play centre but

also wing and was a persistent performer

throughout the season. Craig Walshe who

also returned from injury in the latter part of

the season.

As well as playing for 20s a special mention

should go to those the kitted out for the

U20’s captain Sean Bourke receiving the cup

from our own Niall Rynne

junior teams in the club which was needed

during the season. Matthew Kennedy,

Darragh Gibson, Craig Walshe, Michael

McEvoy, Niall McDonnell, Donal McAuilffe,

Michael Connell and all the others.

As we now turn to look towards next season,

we will have the same coaching and

management teams as this season. All these

players have great futures ahead of them at

20s, firsts and junior rugby.

Vincent Murray

The victorious U20’s squad that won the league.

27

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YOUTH RUGBY REVIEW

The 2019/20 season began well. The Youth

Section of the club fielded 6 teams with 140

active players... then Covid intervened!

The Bisto Girls won in December, the only

cup in the Youths Section in 2019/20 beating

Athy in the final of this Leinster Branch

Competition. This is the first Girl’s cup at

Youth level in the club’s history and a great

achievement… with credit to head coach

Sarah Fallon and her team.

We had two under 13’s teams this season A’s

and a B’s, The A team reached the play-offs

and B team had some good results. The B

team was made up of those that were new to

rugby and the success there was keeping the

team together and full of happy players.

Thankfully, and due the hard work of the

coaches and managers, we achieved our goal!

Our under 15’s team managed to get a team

together and had a good season.

U16’s, playing in the Premier League, were in

the play-offs for the league and were still in

two cups when Covid 19 arrived. It is

noteworthy that three of the squad had been

selected for the under 16 Leinster metro

squad, Evan Gernon, Josh Keogh and Senan

Phelan. Senan went on to be selected for the

under 17 panel. Well done boys!

The under 18’s was also in the Premier

Division and were undefeated all season in

league and cup and we were probably in line

for some silverware when Covid 19 put a stop

to that. As we didn’t have an end of season

presentation night, we did not get a chance

to thank the under 18 coaches and managers

… some of whom had been with the team

from the beginning. Thank you and well

done. The future looks good for Youth Rugby

in St. Mary’s.

My sincerest thanks to all the managers and

coaches for all of their support, drive and

passion, which is truly humbling to see, week

in week out. Thanks also to our President

Mick O’Flaherty for all of his support

throughout the season … he was always

there for us.

I am most grateful to Marie Hammond for

her continued friendship and support for the

Youths.

The club’s priorities have changed due to

this pandemic but we have all made a huge

difference to so many young people’s

The victorious

Bistro Team.

29

Personal Training

Bootcamp Classes

Online Coaching

Nutrition Coaching

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Check us out on Facebook and Instagram!

Sarah Brennan

Fallon celebrates

with her Bistro

Players.

activities by keeping them active and

motivated ... such as getting out of the

house and training with their team mates. It

is also important for the coaches and

managers to share the journey with the

players.

Each child joining will share the core values

of honesty, integrity, learning, passion,

teamwork and loyalty. A child joining St

Mary’s College RFC at under 6 will hopefully

be still playing in their late 30’s so it’s the

club’s duty to be the best it can be for that

child.

Finally in these strange times I hope

everyone stays safe, well and happy and

that we return to playing matches and

cheering on the star yet again!

Best regards,

Robbie O’Neill

Director of Youth Rugby

St Mary’s College RFC

We should also promote a special needs

team and embrace the support from the

IRFU and Leinster Rugby!

We all want to be part of a club that made a

difference and not just a team that won

something. I believe in a St. Mary’s culture

that makes parents proud of how we

develop the present and future players.

As Director of Youths Rugby and coach of

the Under 17s, I have coached since under

6s. I wish for each St. Mary’s player that they

be strong of character and demonstrate

attributes allowing them to be held in high

esteem by their peers and elders.

31

The Bistro’s raise the cup aloft.

A €650,000 heating decentralisation project was completed to

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Wishing st. Mary’s College RFC continued success

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MINI RUGBY REVIEW

Welcome to Mini Rugby at St. Mary’s College

RFC.

Mini Rugby embodies all that is good in the

game: fun, friends, new skills and a strong

sense of community. We field teams from

Under 6s to Under 12s and our focus is

always on welcoming all boys and girls and

making sure that they feel at home in our

club. We celebrate diversity and work hard

to make sure that every child feels included.

We have an outstanding group of Mini Rugby

coaches who work tirelessly to ensure the

ongoing success of Minis. Mary’s have been a

leading club in the field of Child Welfare,

working in conjunction with the IRFU

ensuring that all coaches are registered and

vetted. We also provide ongoing training in

all aspects of coaching young players.

Normally when we write about the Mini

Rugby season, we have many highlights to

focus on. These include teams playing at half

time in Leinster matches, away trips with our

Firsts for AIL matches, an overseas trip for

our Under 12’s and our annual landmark

occasions such as the eagerly anticipated

Under 6 / 7 Pro 14 tournament, our

outstanding Christmas party and raffle and

the end of season Fun Day.

However, for the 2020/21 season our

outstanding achievement was getting our

boys and girls back on to the hallowed turf

of Templeville Road, enjoying training every

Sunday (as well as mid-week on certain

occasions) in the safest possible

environment.

It has been an inspiration to us to see the

club come together weeks in advance of the

new season to plan, invest and prepare for

the safe return of Mini Rugby. It was so

encouraging to see the commitment from

the club with every pitch (including the

firsts!) made available to us. This has been a

difficult year for all sports clubs in Ireland

and around the world – nevertheless Mary’s

have not wavered in their support of our

Minis.

The all-important safety aspect was led by

David Mowlds who took the lead role in

getting rugby restarted in the club in the

Covid environment; he worked tirelessly to

this end and we are very proud to say that

33

Choose to win.

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Coleman Financial Planning Ltd. t/a Coleman Financial Planning is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Mary’s have been at the forefront of best

practice in returning to rugby in the safest

possible way. We are very grateful to David.

Junior, Youth and Mini rugby and we can

count on the support of all of these in

advancing the cause of our Minis.

We reached out for volunteers to act as

Covid Safety Officers for each team and had

a massive response. David organised training

for each of these as well as for our invaluable

Head Coaches and everyone responded in

the spirit and the letter of the new

guidelines. We launched the ClubZap App

(with valued support from John Bainbridge)

and our parents embraced it as a key safety

enabler.

We started back on Sunday 13 th September

after 26 weeks without rugby and we have

not looked back since! We launched our

Under 6 team with record numbers getting a

magnificent introduction to rugby by Head

Coach Joe Shine and his outstanding group

of coaches. We are pleased to report that our

parents have embraced the new restrictions

with good grace and good humour and we

have approx. 400 mini players in the club

every Sunday morning with some of the best

Autumn weather we have experienced

thrown in for good measure!

Mary’s is a truly unique rugby environment

where those who are new to the game drop

their kids off alongside legends of Leinster,

Ireland, Lions and world rugby. The club

fields teams at all levels from AIL through to

35

We want to acknowledge Club President, the

great Vinnie Cunningham, Honorary

Secretary (& Mini Coach!) Colin Smyth, our

Chairman and all the Executive who have

worked so hard for Mini Rugby – this year

more than ever.

We want to thank Marie Hammond for her

guidance, encouragement and tireless efforts

in support of our Minis. Thanks also to Mary’s

Child Welfare Officer, Pearl Healy, who

ensures the highest standards of child

welfare in Mini Rugby and also to the

Director of Rugby (and Mini Coach!) Alan

Shirley.

To our Mini Rugby Team Managers, Coaches

and Covid Officers as well as our numerous

volunteers; a big thank you for keeping the

show running so well in this year of years.

Finally, a big thanks to all our parents and

guardians for their continued loyalty and

support of St Mary’s College RFC Mini Rugby.

We have maybe all had a reminder of its

value and importance in the 2020/21 season.

Paddy Lennon & Shane Keown

Directors of Mini Rugby

Independent financial planning advice & services

Employee benefit schemes

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Life insurance planning for individuals & businesses

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W: www.simonshirley.com

Simon Shirley Advisors Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

PAUL MICHAEL DEAN – ‘DEANO’:

A ST. MARY’S GREAT

School Years

In the 50s and 60s we had an outstanding

and highly individual young man, James

Dean who fascinated the film world and in

70s and 80s we had an outstanding young

rugby player and person, Paul Dean who

fascinated and beguiled the rugby world.

Before that of course he had to enter the

world, and that he did on a warm summer’s

day in 1960 in Dublin. In 1967 as a seven year

old boy, he ventured down the road to St

Mary’s College at Rathmines, where he

enjoyed his time and excelled for 11 years,

leaving school in 1978. Sport was one of his

strongest points and at rugby he sparkled.

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) was

founded in 1875 and for its centenary in 1975,

the first schoolboys’ international games

were ventured upon. In both 1977 and 1978

Paul was the Irish outhalf, where he was a

star. In fact St Marys have produced superb

outhalves over its history, particularly. Sean

Cooke, Tony Ward, Paul Dean, Vinnie

Cunningham (centre/outhalf and current

president) and Jonathan Sexton. The latter

four being outstanding British and Irish

Lions)

Paul Dean

injured his knee in Australia, cutting down

his involvement and effectively ending his

playing career. That of course did not end his

contribution to Irish rugby.

His Clubs

When Paul left school he came straight up

the St Mary’s College RFC, then recently

relocated from College Drive to Templeville

Road and was an instant success. Over the

years different top players have been

inclined to have some special point of

excellence and although clearly Paul had a

brilliant all round game, he was endowed

with magical hands.

He enjoyed greatly his club rugby, all who

saw him did likewise, and as his game

developed he progressed to Leinster, which

team he captained and then in 1981 he was

capped for Ireland. He went on to play for

Ireland until 1989, gaining 32 caps. He was

part of the famous, Mick Doyle coached 1985

Triple Crown winning team. Then he was

selected for the British and Irish Lions’ tour

of Australia in 1989. Unfortunately, he

37

Meanwhile, his golfing acumen was

developing. While many golfers develop an

itch for the game, Paul developed to a

scratch golfer. He is a member of Blainroe

and Dun Laoghaire Golf Clubs He was captain

of Blainroe GC in 1992. He is still a top class

golfer. He only needs those three clubs!

Social and Personal

It wasn’t all rugby and golf, he found time to

marry the most personable Lorraine, who

has also contributed generously to St Marys

in many ways. And they both found time to

rear Holly, an HRC with PWC (sounds great);

and Conor, who at 22 is, like his father, a

highly talented outhalf who already has been

a very valuable dedicated St Marys player.

He is currently on a professional development

contract with Connacht. He stays in

touch with his club and it is hoped will in the

future at some time play for Marys again.

Paul has developed a successful business

career too. He worked with Smurfit Ireland’s

distribution company “Masser Hammond” as

area manager until his rugby retirement in

1989. Then after the Lions tour, he founded a

Licensing company (TopLion Sportswear Ltd)

to manufacture, sell and distribute

sportswear in Ireland. He has since sold his

interests in TopLion and set up as a Sports

Trade Consultant in 2013. He founded

Sportsaware Ltd 2016.

While with TopLion he has been an important

and appreciated sponsor to his club, St

Mary’s College RFC.

With all that going on, it is hard to see what

else he could have been doing. He was in fact

also extremely busy with rugby in another

way. He was assistant coach to the Leinster

Senior Team for 5 seasons. He was a member

of the Leinster Rugby Professional Game’s

Board. He just recently stepped down as

manager of the Senior Irish Rugby Team,

2016–2020. He is currently a member of the

IRFU Commercial and Marketing Committee.

And recently he has been honoured to enter

the highly prestigious Leinster Rugby’s Hall of

Fame.

His own club honoured him in 2000-01. This

was the centenary season of St Mary’s

College RFC. Paul was president that season.

He was the youngest president in the club’s

history. He enjoyed that periodexceptionally

well. The seasons running up to and during

his presidency was a time of great interest in

AIL rugby and the club famously won the AIL

in season 1999-2000 when Paul was vice

president to Brendan Spring, then president.

It was too, a time of high levels of social

interaction between clubs, with most

enjoyable trips around the entire island.

Deano revelled in this social interaction and

was an extremely popular and effective

ambassador for St Marys. He also showed the

other side of his magical hands. On many an

eve of match night, after a pleasant meal and

a surfeit of Spike’s jokes, Deano would get up

and give a scintillating show of magic. He is

an esteemed member of the Magic Circle. He

performed all sorts of magic and prestidigitation;

he had a particular display of

lights being eaten, ending up in gentlemen’s

pockets hanging out of the ceiling and so on.

There was no end to his magic. He once

turned a cow into a field. Then, one evening,

a particular alickadoo was being somewhat

troublesome - Deano made him disappear,

never to be seen again!

There is no doubt but that he has a great deal

more to do and enjoy, much of that it is

hoped, will be done and enjoyed at his club,

where he remains a popular star and is a life

honorary member. Deano! Deano!

D. O’Brien

Paul Dean in action

against Romania,

1st November 1986.

39

THANK YOU FROM MICHAEL ‘FLATS’ O’FLAHERTY

Dear Members and Friends,

As most of you will now be aware, the

decision has been made to end the 2019/20

rugby season. I would like to show my

gratitude to all our volunteers, sponsors,

coaches, managers, referees, parents,

supporters and players for all your support

over the last few months.

The rugby is over, for now, but we all have a

very important mission to undertake in this

unprecedented situation we find ourselves

in. I would ask that you all adhere to the

strict guidelines that have been set for us.

Social distancing, hand-washing, limited

contact with others, all familiar words in the

world today. We will get through this, there

will be an end, we need something to look

forward to.

A special thanks to all of those people from

the club, families and friends who are

working hard in the health service industry,

retail and logistics. These people are putting

their all into protecting and providing for us

so please stay indoors as much as possible

and limit the spread.

I want to thank the first squad under the

guidance of Steve, Jamie, Barry and Modser,

the management of Paudge, Peter, Ruari

and Ian, and the captaincy and leadership of

Watching on

in Donnybrook

at the Energia

AIL game.

41

David Lyons,

Shane Jennings,

Michael O'Flaherty

and Paddy Power.

Tom O’Reilly for maintaining our AIL 1B

status for next season. I have supported and

followed this young team throughout the

season. They have battled hard and won

away from home on many occasions, played

in terrible conditions and survived Storm

Jorge and will survive this virus. They

matured and learned as the season went on

and will be in contention next season for

promotion with this experience.

Our J1’s under the guidance of Paul, Ger,

Mick, Tom and Captain Matty Timmons who

will be gutted that they didn’t get to play in

the Metro 2 League final and gain promotion

to Division 1. They were a team in touch of

silverware and will be a threat again next

season.

Our J2’s led by Gav, Ronan, Harry, Ciaran

and Captain Fionan Magee had a great

season only to be pipped by a point to

playing in the Metro Division 3 league final,

with Donners playing as if he was still in his

twenties. They were looking forward to the

cup campaign.

Our J3’s under the guidance of Dan, Steve,

Colm and Captain Denis Daly had one game

left in their league against CYM to play. If

they won they would play in the league final,

if they lost they were relegated. They had

everything to play for and will look forward

to next season.

Our J4’s under the guidance of Ryan, Dave,

Rob, Caglar and Captain Eric Dunne had a

game in hand to qualify for the league final

and will be disappointed the season finished

early.

Our Under 20’s managed by Vinnie, Tony

and Peter, coached by Brian, Eddie and

Peter and Captained by Sean Bourke won

the JP Fanagan Premier 2 league.

They were unbeatable in the league and

were looking forward to the Purcell Cup and

taking another trophy.

All of our youth teams were in contention for

silverware. Our U18 Bisto girls had won a

junior Cup v Athy before Christmas and

Senan Phelan from our U17s was selected for

the Leinster U17 metro squad.

Our minis were going well with great

numbers playing every Sunday morning and

our U12’s were looking forward to their trip

to Biarritz. I would like to thank all the

parents and coaches for their huge efforts.

Our Rugby Council, chaired by Alan with

support from Kevin, Eoin, Paudge and

Stephen can now plan for the season ahead.

Our Directors of Rugby who have worked so

diligently I thank you. Mossy, Robbie, Shane

and Paddy and our Honorary Match and

42

Fixtures Secretary Michael Fanagan, thank

you so much for all your good work.

Marie Hammond, Rio and Tony, I will be

forever grateful for all your help.

We had two great unforgettable days in the

club when the place was packed. The night

we had Rake the Ashes play it was like an

old social and our ladies lunch was so well

supported by the ladies and friends.

To all of our Executive Committee, Pearl,

Gareth, John, Richie, Vinnie, Paul, Niall and

the trustees who gave of their time and

energy, thank you.

The DAF coffee mornings were such a

success and will continue once we come out

the otherside of Covid-19.

I also want to sincerely thank D O’Brien,

Past President, for all his eloquently written

match reports throughout the season. (See

Season’s Summary below)

To our Club sponsors, Softco, G-Mack,

Fanagans, Hugh McCarthy and The Charlie

Chawke Group, we could not manage

without your support.

I must thank my fellow officers for all their

hard work and help, mostly unseen.

To our Chairman Frank Kennedy who took

on this role with energy, pride and

leadership. To Vincent Cunningham Vice

President and Honorary Treasurer who

balanced the books and budgets, I wish him

all the best in his Presidential year and last

but by no means, Patrick Crawford Junior

Vice and Honorary Secretary who has put so

much time and expertise into his role over

the past number of years, I will be forever

grateful.

All in all it was good season cut short .

We have plenty to look forward to come

next season. We will enter the AIL’s 30th

year, our Clubs 120th season and the club

Tour to New York. We will also celebrate our

20th year AIL winning team reunion with a

gala dinner. These plus many more events

WILL happen .

So until we meet up again in the club to

support, train, play or socialise please keep

yourself and your precious ones safe. You

know the drill.

Yours in Rugby,

Michael O’Flaherty

President,


2019-2020

All the

President's

Men!!!

Michael with

past presidents

Jack Ebbs and

Eoin Quinn.

43

Best wishes to St. Mary’s College RFC

from

Best wishes to St. Mary’s College RFC

from

MORGAN CROWE

AirBNB

36 PARLIAMENT STREET

DUBLIN 2

MORGAN CROWE

AirBNB

36 PARLIAMENT STREET

DUBLIN 2

THE ABRIDGED AIL 1B LEAGUE 2019-20

In the 19th Century they had an unfinished

symphony (Franz Schubert’s 8th). In the 21st

we had an unfinished season. Both had much

to admire and enjoy and both had their

limitations.

We had a President, Michael O’Flaherty, who

was filled of bonhomie, and brought a

particularly happy and welcoming

atmosphere to the club, as he carried out his

duties with alacrity. It is sad for him to have

to close his club and end activities, but his

actions were timely and necessary. He had

total support from his officers and

committee and indeed all at the club.

We have been fortunate this season, now

gone by, to have greatly increased

involvement of relatively younger alickadoos,

team coaches and managers. This is vital for

continuity and development within. Much of

this has been due to a strong progressive

rugby council (RC), under chairman and

Director of Rugby, Alan Shirley who has

proved to be a highly efficient, strong leader,

with rugby insight, organisational skills and

charisma. It is especially propitious to note

the involvement at all levels and aspects of

club activities, of local community recruits.

Due to this, there has been an enjoyable and

successful season at mini, youth, U20s and

junior rugby. With a number of teams

heading for promotion and/or trophies. All

involved deserve great credit and gratitude.

It is at these levels that a club shows it

potential, its heart and long-term viability.

Probably the youngest senior squad in AIL,

showed resilience, skill and integrated

fellowship in a difficult campaign. Most of all

they showed immense potential. They

probably need the addition of some

experienced avoirdupois in the back five and

a line leader, to progress. Their scrum has

been remarkable and a credit. Much of that

has been due to their captain and local hero,

Tom (Tommer) O’Reilly. He is the epitome of

a good club captain, being approachable to

all, ever present; a hardworking and brave

leader.

The recruitment and development of this

young squad has been in great part due to

Steven Hennessy, strongly supported and

assisted by coaches, Jamie Cornett and

Barry Lynn and managers under experienced

and popular Paudge McGill. There has been

of course, the J1 and U20 coaches/managers

also, in vital back up and support. Steve, an

outstanding Marys’ man, has captained, and

been president of the club He has

outstanding coaching talent and that ability

to develop potential, and inculcate values

and discipline. He has brought this group of

players forward and will hopefully bring

them (with necessary additions) back to 1A.

1st team line up before the D6W Derby.

45

Best

wishes s to St. Mary’s College R

FC

for the season

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AIL (aborted) Campaign

The campaign commenced (5th October)

with a visit to newly promoted Navan and

after a close and sparkling game we

collected the four points. 18-23

A week later we entertained Armagh City

and were surprised by a fast attacking side,

as we here ahead 14-3 with 40 minutes on

the clock, with two superb tries by David

Fanagan and Hugo Conway and ended up,

losing 14-20.

On the 19th October, we took the short trip

to Donnybrook and Old Wesley where we

found a heavy team awaiting us. This was

one of those games where we deserved

victory. Both teams were 16 points on 74

minutes, when a foot clearly in touch was

not spotted and they scored a try. Final

score 16-26.

The 2nd November, for the first time ever in

AIL, we welcomed Highfield to Templeville

Road. They proved a surprise package, as

they have all season, they beat us in an

intense struggle, which fell their way

eventually; it ended 11-16.

The 9th November we headed north and

found Malone waiting. This was an epic

battle in biting wind and rain. This did not

take from a marvellous performance and

heroic efforts by all. It was an important fillip

to get a victory there having lost on the

previous visit. It ended 8-13.

The dreaded Friday night game was on 29th

November v Naas RFC. The St Mary’s fear-not

Dreadnaughts went to Forenaughts, under

cover of darkness, but before the end of the

night, they sparkled into the bright lights of

joyous fulfilment. This was a very fine win

against a strongly developing Naas side. The

score was 10-16.

On the 7th December we went to Thomond

Park. Munster were playing that day and so

we were on the tight back pitch with much

distraction and a near kilometre to walk from

UL dressing rooms. It was tough game

deservedly, under the circumstances, won by

Shannon, 24-11.

A week later, 14th December we entertained

Old Belvedere, in the last game of the first

47

Captain Tommer (Tom O’Reilly) leads out his men.

half of the league. And a tough battle it was,

we shaded it 14-13 and it gave us a happy

Christmas with reason to be merry.

The 11th of January saw the recommencement

of the league and we had the

return game against Belvo. It had the feeling

of a post Xmas hangover and unfortunately

we came off on the wrong side of another

close encounter of the rueful kind. 15-10. Both

clubs harvested five points from the two

games.

We had tough visitors in Shannon on 25th

January. We matched them in toughness,

only lacking experience to close out a game.

Four minutes to go, four points up after two

majestic penalties from Mick O’Gara, elation;

four minutes later defeat, dejection. They

scored with last play and it ended 25-28. A

damaging wound.

St Valentine’s Day brought us no love nor

succour as Naas came back to us and beat us

in AIL for the first time. Another Friday night

Podge Dundon on the charge.

game. They had a greatly improved team

and we fell, in a close game, but Naas

deserved their victory, 15-25. It was getting

close.

A brilliant and brave win at Rifle Park on

22nd February, gave renewed vigour and

optimism, when we won 22-24, showing

improved ball retention and game control. It

was well deserved and brought us back into

safer territory. We went home happy.

Our happiness was dented on 29th February

when leap year day, gave us no reason to

jump with joy. Malone brought a team with

seven contracted players. The game was

reminiscent another day in 2009-10. There

was a storm and against it we were astral

and at half time were only 0-14 in 20 point

wind. However with superb ball retention,

stalling, slowing and other subterfuges, the

clever pros on the Malone team managed

their game brilliantly, got a breakaway try

and a penalty. Seldom,19 we got the ball,

only managed seven points and ended the

game 7- 19.

That sadly ended the league, we were in

eight position just out of the relegation

playoff position. We hope and believe. We

fervently wish that all players, supporters

and members stay safe and unaffected by

this present, pestilential plague. So that was

it.

D. O’Brien

49

ALL THE BEST TO

ST. MARY’S RFC

For the Season.

OBL.IE

J1’S REVIEW – SEASON 2019-2020

How to sum up the season that was? Our

team was captained again this season by the

very popular and talented Matty Timmons,

ably deputised by Andy Mooney and Niall

McNiff. From the off both Matty and our

head coach Tom Lynch made it clear that

the squads targets for the season were

promotion to Division 1, where we belong as

Matty put it, and to win the League Final.

Mission partially accomplished as promotion

was confirmed prior to the lockdown and

the final was reached however it was

cancelled for obvious reasons.

The squad this year greatly benefited from

an injection of new players and the return of

some familiar faces. Paul Brennan came in as

backs coach early on in the season and

throughout an exciting brand of attacking

rugby was played as evidenced by 11 try

scoring bonus points being secured in only

13 league games, our final game being

conceded by Clontarf. Our back three,

usually including three of Alex Dix, Matthew

Opperman, Tim Dolan, David Sloan and

David Fanagan, no matter its composition,

terrorised opposing teams throughout the

season and all who played there had the

ability to score tries from anywhere on the

pitch, even those drafted in as make shift

wingers. Take a bow Ciaran O’Meara!

A number of different centre combinations

were tried with Matthew Timmons and

Matthew Talbot being the successful

combination for the better part of the

season. Rumour has it that Paul B. selected

them there as it was easier for him to give

instructions if both centres answered to the

same name!

For the same reason Ben Watson and Benn

Hoey started more often than not at half

back! It was Ben’s first season playing with

us and despite his young years he controlled

games excellently from 10 and was

instrumental in the attacking rugby played.

Ruairi Shields started for us at 10 too and

also excelled, notably away to Naas when he

nabbed a hat trick of tries.

We were lucky to have 3 excellent

scrumhalf’s vying for the starting position,

Benn Hoey, who decided to return from

semi-retirement and his game clearly

benefited from the pre-season warm

weather training he undertook in Mexico

along with Corky and Tally under the

tutelage of Tom, Adam McEvoy, from the

20s who was excellent whenever he played

for us, and Conor Kavanagh, who missed a

portion of the season due to illness but

reported back in fine form. Against Barnhall

Lineout success

against UCD.

51

away we had all three playing at once. Can

you imagine the poor referee having to

listen to three scrum halves on the one

team? Kav had only battled his way back

from the horrific injury he suffered away to

Clontarf in 2018 when a serious illness laid

him low. It was of great credit to him how he

remained positive and managed to defy the

odds and regain fitness and return to

playing in January. It gave the entire squad a

boost to have him back knowing what he

had gone through.

Our front row were stand out performers

comprising three of Niall McNiff, Keith

Mannion, Brian Mannion (who deservedly

was awarded the MVM award – Most

Valuable Mannion, sorry Keith!). Sean Healy

(a try scoring machine whose eve of match

ritual of a scatter of pints in Slatterys

resulted in him scoring a hat trick the

following day) and the one and only Podge

Dundon. Some have said that finding love

has caused Podge to mellow but I suspect

that opposing loose heads would beg to

differ! A big thanks to all those who helped

us out by stepping in at times to provide

cover at frontrow and to keep us legal.

Positions 4 to 8 must be spoken about

together as I suspect that every back row

Jumping high in Donnybrook.

53

Ian Bloomer tries to keep warm on 4th official duty.

played in the second row on some occasion

throughout the season after Liam and

Hugo’s most deserved elevation to the

Firsts, Cillian O’Neill treading a lonely path

as the only specialist second row. We had an

embarrassment of riches at backrow with

Andy Mooney, Conor Corcoran, Dan Lyons,

Sean Heeran, Jesse Lee, Ciaran O’Meara and

Gavin Potts to select from, though not once

were all available for the same game. Jesse

was sorely missed when he had to return

home to New Zealand in January but

hopefully, he will be back for the new

season as we all missed out on his end of

season Haka! Two matches in particular

stand out, both coincidently against

Barnhall. In the home fixture we were

missing a few players due to injury and

faced a huge Barnhall pack who up until

then had been demolishing all opposition

scrums. Barnhall were awarded a series of

penalties under our posts and repeatedly

chose to scrummage. A somewhat

makeshift front row, which was dwarfed by

their opposing numbers, made a heroic

stand winning a relieving penalty. We

On the attack

at home to the

neighbours.

ultimately went on to win that match by the

slim of margin of 5-3.On the morning of the

return fixture we had at one stage only 11

players available but eventually a team was

cobbled together, the back line ultimately

including a flanker, three scrum halves and a

rejuvenated David Lyons playing like he was

half his age. When we went 14-0 down after

ten minutes the worst was feared but the

team, led that day by Niffer, refused to

buckle and showed utter commitment,

exemplified by Sean Heeran and Conor

Corcoran who were both immense that day.

On the final whistle David Sloan scored the

bonus point try, having also been integrally

involved in the simply outstanding team try

scored earlier by David Fanagan, one which

rivals Alex Dix’s superb solo effort against

Greystones for the J1 try of the season. That

win guaranteed our promotion and place in

the final which unfortunately was not to be.

A big thanks to that J2 player who played

for us that day. Barnhall took to referring to

him as Hodor due to his gigantic physique

and ability to completely end hopes of them

pushing us backwards in the scrum. Thanks

again Alan Hodor Blake! A nickname like

that is a tribute.

It was a truly enjoyable season and there is

much promise in this young and exciting

squad. The hardest part of the season was

nominating only four of the players for the

55

Player of the Season Award as the entire

squad were worthy recipients of it.

Ultimately the squad voted that the

accolade should be awarded to the everpopular

Podge Dundon as a mark of his

commitment, both physical and verbal,

throughout the season.

Whilst we gained an assistant coach in Paul

Brennan this season, we are due to lose our

head coach Tom Lynch as Tom is scheduled

to take up a work position in Hong Kong.

Tom is a young coach with a bright future

ahead of him and one of the most

disappointing things about the final being

cancelled is that we didn’t get to send Tom

off with a trophy on his coaching resume.

Thanks for everything Tom. Maybe a little

good will come out of this Covid-19 hell and

your move to Hong Kong will be postponed

allowing you to continue as coach – anyway

if half the stories from Mexico ’19 are to be

believed it is unlikely that you would survive

long on foreign shores without Corky, Tally

and Benn to look after you!

We are not sure when it will come to pass

but we look forward to having a few pints to

mark a good season when these restrictions

are lifted – when the battle of the splitting

of the H and the G will resume!!

Paul Conlon


The 2019-2020 season for our J2s was a

difficult pill to swallow in some ways, and in

other ways a tremendous example of the

calibre of players and coaching we had. We

had two tremendous coaches in Gavin

Thornberry and Ronan ‘Ronda’ O’Doherty,

with some phenomenal help coming in from

the injured Ciaran ‘Lenzo’ Lennon. Lenzo,

who suffered a bad injury early in the season,

joined in with management to stay involved

in the team (thankfully he did). Lenzo lent a

strong and guiding hand to our lads, while

often barely even able to walk on the

sideline. Gav who may be the most organised

and prepared man in the world, Ronda who

is undoubtedly one of, if not the fastest

“retired” players in the club, and Lenzo who

still has lots to offer on the pitch once he’s

back playing - three lads who were the

foundation on which the season was built.

I was fortunate enough to link in as manager

after what I think was my 3rd retirement

from rugby following another knee injury,

and I was perfectly happy in my role which

involved making sure the jerseys, balls,

cones, bottles and anything else we needed

were all where they were supposed to be,

and that the three lads had what they

needed for the match and training. On

matchdays, all valuables had to be guarded,

contact lenses protected and referees

charmed – I was very successful in two of

these objectives. Since I had accepted that

Joe Schmidt had either lost my number or

decided that Jordan Larmour was a better

fit for his squad, I called it a day on my

relatively short career and decided to stay

involved with the club. Gav, Ronda, Lenzo

and the lads all warmly welcomed me into

the fold and I’m immensely grateful for that.

Without singling any player out, it’s safe to

say that every player on our team, who’s age

range was, on any given day, 19-40, gave it

their all in every match. Our forwards went

unmatched in scrums, mauls and rucks - a

wall of immovable and unbreakable blue and

white steel. Lineouts were successful more

often than not and just to show how

impressive our big men were; when playing

against J1 and J2 sides, whenever a scrum

was awarded, be it to us or our opponents,

an audible groan was let out by our foes –

they knew they were coming up against a

team that could not and would not be

stopped – one of our scrums marched our

opponents half the length of the pitch in one

match. Despite being the nicest lads you

could meet off the pitch, our forwards were

a force to be reckoned with on it – and every

team in the league knew it.

St. Mary's College RFC J2s - a great bunch of lads.

57

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St. Mary's

College RFC's

finest - our

J2s ready for

action.

Our backs, made up of a mix of new and old

blood, veterans and rookies, were a sight to

behold on the ball. Quick hands, loud voices

and speed matched only by Barry Allen

(look him up – he’s very fast). We had a

plethora of choice when it came to choosing

who to start. We had precise scrum halves,

accurate out-halves, no dearth of fearless

crashing centres, wingers who could sprint

faster than a government u-turn, and full

backs who could cause more trouble than a

golfing dinner in Galway. Combine all of this

with the assistance we received from our

U20s and various other Junior Rugby teams,

you can see why we had a team to brag

about. (Side-note: Thank you to the

management and coaches of the 20s and

other junior teams, as well as the lads who

togged out for us – your help was and will

always be gratefully received and welcome).

To finish the season joint second

(“technically” 3rd due to a points-difference

of only 21 points), was a tough one – even

just a draw where we had lost or had we

played a little stronger in games we lost,

could have made all the difference – or so

we thought – but that’s the way the game

goes and there’s always next season to aim

for. The season ended after the last league

59

game and before any play-offs or cup

games got underway – little did we know

that 6 months later we’d be back in

lockdown in Dublin and unsure of when the

league will resume proper. All we can do is

try to keep fit, stay safe, follow the

guidelines and hope we can get back to

rugby in a safe and hopefully uninterrupted

way. This season, in whatever form it takes

will be different, but under the eyes of new

coaches and Junior Rugby legends: David

‘Lyonsy’ Lyons and Graeme ‘GMac’

McInerney, and with myself and Aaron

Hudson working behind the scenes to make

sure we’re fully compliant with IRFU and

Club Covid Restrictions, we will ensure that

it will be a successful one and hopefully we

can can bring some more silverware to the

Templeville Road.

So for now, stay safe, please wear a mask,

wash your hands, and make sure that when

you’re allowed to, that you get out and

cheer on every team in the club you can.

When the government says you can attend

live matches in Dublin, put on your blue and

whites, bring your mask, loudly cheer on the

lads, and hope we can get back to normal as

soon as possible.

Harry Ebbs


Management Team:

Dan McManus (Player Coach)

Steve Conboy (Kit and GM)

with the odd bit of assistance form Colm

Kavanagh and Johnny Ellis and some

Consultancy work from Taram Davis.

Team Captain:

Denis Daly

Pre-Season

This year pre-season was a bit different as

the IRFU / Leinster Branch got involved one

night a week on a Monday and ran Touch fit

for 6 weeks, this was a scheme of Touch

rugby being mixed with fitness and

conditioning hits. Attendance gradually got

strong and so did the bodies. Teams from J2

to J4s were involved.

Wednesday nights the J2 to J4s mixed it up

for some rugby specific workouts and fitness

games.

There were two pre-season friendlies. The

first was an away trip to Navan which was

poorly attended but a good beer session.

Followed 4 weeks later by a home game vs

NUI Barnhall with everyone in the Club

wanting game time as it was one week out

from the start of the season and decent win

obtained.

Games up to Christmas

• The first game of the league was a narrow

6 point home loss to Wanderers. Club

running out of steam but it was anyone’s

game for most parts. Score: Mary’s 12 -

Wanderers 18.

• The second game was a one point win

away to a strong Old Wesley team. The

lead up to the game was rife with

disorganisation on the part of Wesley so

the win was wildly celebrated and the first

use of John Cetti’s harmonica brought

some tune to the Mary’s boys. Score:

Wesley 14 - Mary’s 15.

• What followed the win was bad away loss

to Lansdowne. A bad start and first half but

a promising second half of scores could

make up for it. Score: Lansdowne 31 -

Mary’s 15.

• A further loss followed with a BP to Old

Belvo at home, this loss was hard to take as

Club were dominant through out but could

not score. Butchering several try

opportunities with handling errors and

playing against 13 men for a 10 mins. Score:

Mary’s 3 - Belvo 10.

• CYM gave up home advantage to play in

Marys on a very poor November weekend

due to their pitch being submerged. Whilst

playing much improved from the Belvo

match, try opportunities were hard bought

and a BP loss was a good result as CYM

New Jerseys

all ready to go!

60

Jubilation after

victory in

atrocious

weather

conditions.

played very well and were extremely

organised outfit.

• What followed in the last game before the

X-Mas break was an absolute cricket score

handed out to us on an away trip to

Stillorgan. 5 pull outs before kick off

resulted in a scramble for anyone we could

get to play in an already weak squad going

to play the league leaders. Score: Stillorgan

41 - Mary’s Nil. Still hurts!

The first half of the season to X-Mas was

dominated by injuries, poor numbers at

training, lack of availability of players leading

to the use of in-experienced players and lads

having to double up an play two games be it

J2, J3 or J4. At this point in the season over

40 different players lined out for the J3s so

the team was inconsistent and playing like

strangers.

What was positive was that 3 of the losses

were bonus points so the team was not far

of the mark. A review of training and games

took place and it was decided that after X-

Mas the J3s and J4s would break away from

training wit the J2s if numbers permitted.

Post Christmas

• It was like a different team returned after

the Turkey, all but two injured players.

61

Training numbers improved and for the

first time since the win away to Wesley, a

strongly experienced and quality side took

the field with a couple of 20s to beat

Wanderers away. This was a good victory

as the lead changed hands several times

with Mary’s scoring late to seal the win. A

result that might have slipped away in the

first half of the season. Score Wanderers 17

- Mary’s 22. Cetti finally getting to dust of

the Harmonica.

• The next game was a the first BP win of

the season. A fairly unchanged side mixed

with 3 under 20s gave a poor Wesley side

an absolute beating despite playing with 14

men for 30 mins, securing the double over

Wesley this season. Score: Mary’s 26 -

Wesley 18.

• Hit by injuries in the back line, we were

beaten by a very good Lansdowne side at

home who took advantage of defensive

frailties in the backs. Lansdowne doing the

double over us. Mary’s 21 - Lansdowne 29.

• We immediately bounced back with an

away trouncing of Old Belvo scoring 7 tries

with Belvo only getting a consolation try

late in the game. It was a great evening out

against a Belvo side more interested in

fighting than playing ball. Score: Belvo 8 -

Mary’s 42.

• The last league game of the season as it

turned out was against Stillorgan played in

Terenure. Perhaps the finest performance of

the season was produced to beat a dogged

Stillorgan team. Our boys outclassed and

out muscled a fine Stillorgan team to banish

the result from before X-Mas. Score: Mary’s

20 - Stillorgan 14.

• The win v Stillorgan put us in a position we

thought impossible earlier in the season, if

we beat CYM in a re-fix of a weather

cancelled league game, we could play

Stillorgan away in a league final. Sadly due

to the Covid pandemic measures, this game

could not be played and what could have

been we will never know.

• The only game we did manage to play

before the league was pulled was a Moran

Cup loss away to Greystones. A decent 1st

half against a team a division above us was

not enough and Greystones ran out

winners. Score: Graystones 24 - Mary’s 12.

Whilst the season will go down as a chance

missed and never finished we do get the

benefit of some learnings:

• Despite a poor 1st half of the season we

were in the mix at the end of the season.

The division is highly competitive but

opportunities to win it are there.

• More commitment and buy in from players

could have put us in a far better position at

Christmas as those 3 BP losses could have

easily been wins.

• The assistance of the Under 20 players was

great and needs to be better utilised.

• We will never know if we would have got

much benefit of training away from the J2s

after Christmas as the weather was so poor,

most training was called off or forced to be

taken with the J2s anyway as pitch space

was gold dust.

• My personal view on this is that the J2s and

J3s learnt a lot from training with each

other but it alienates J4 players due to the

gap in their skill set and physicality. The

player base is poor and needs to be built

up especially in the prop and second row

positions. Experienced scrumagers are few

and far between so we struggled with

injuries all season in that department.

Despite that, our scrum was solid but are

line out less so.

• A strong line out will win games.

• A more consistent team sheet would have

walked the season so players need to

prioritise their rugby over socials and trips,

after all the season is short, just 13 or 14

games, I think players will appreciate that

David McGill,

picking up his John

Cunningham Player

of the month award

for September 2019

from Vinnie

Cunningham

(Current President)

and Michael

O’Flaherty (Past

President & Current

J3/J4 Coach).

63

Colm Kavanagh

presents David

Owen Mahon of

Mother Reilly’s

his jersey on

behalf of

Junior Rugby.

more next season when they see what the

lost this season between narrow defeats

and Covid.

• Selection meetings were tough this season,

sometimes you got a few dig outs, most

times not as the players needed were front

rows and seconds. Then sometimes you got

players at too late a notice and couldn’t use

them as it would mean dropping a player

who you have already told to start.

• Denis Daly is an exceptional captain, from

taking training when needed to coming

back from a very bad head injury his

commitment was outstanding and so was

his mannerism and ability to converse with

refs. Add that to his rugby abilities and the

Club should be proud to have him as a

player and Captain. He should be rewarded

with reinstatement next season.

• We picked up a couple of very handy new

players along the way one of which is

included in my player of the year

nominations. They are Tom Parker (the

newbie), Malo (in his second season) and

Craig Byrne (a club pillar). The 3 off them

on the pitch together cause teams

problems all day long both going forwards

and backwards. 3 of the best.

I would like to end this report with saying

thanks to Mossy for his hard work, he was

great, very organised despite his busy life.

No doubt I will give my feedback to Mossy

for next season as there is scope for the J3s

to win a league but this may mean breaking

away from the norm.

Otherwise, thanks to Marie, the selection lads

and the Exec for keeping the lights on.

Hopefully we get back to Rugby for next

season, in the meantime I would ask you all

to think about your Club and how we can

make this place more attractive for players as

this season I feel we have a net loss in

players compared to last season. There is

great benefits and facilities at this Club we

need to show these off and create a more

desirable social environment to attract

players. We also need to figure out what are

current players want!

Dan McManus

64


After last season’s close calls losing both a

league and cup final, the J4/J5 squad were

looking forward to the upcoming season

entering two teams in Division 9 and 10.

Unfortunately players numbers were not as

high as expected at the beginning of the

season and we had to withdraw from

Division 10 so our squad was focused solely

on Division 9.

This season our J4 side was captained by

Eric Dunne and our coaching team

comprised of Dave Gardner, Rob Dunleavy,

Ryan Barnes, Dan McManus, Caglar Tuc and

as always Maurice Davin working diligently

in the background for us. Throughout the

season we trained with the J2 and J3

squads and there were many occasions of

each squad helping each other out on

gamedays if numbers were tight and there

was a good bond between the squads.

Like almost every other team in the club,

our season was sadly cut short due to the

COVID-19 pandemic which obviously puts it

all in perspective. Up until this, our team

was in with a chance of reaching the league

final against Parkmore and was looking

forward to playing against our friends

Emerald Warriors in the first round of the

O’Connor Cup.

Until the season was concluded, our team

had played some great games and put in

some memorable performances. Highlights

include great wins against Malahide,

Parkmore and Monkstown all before

Christmas. The 29 point win against

Monkstown was a sublime performance and

was inspired no doubt by last year’s league

final defeat to Monkstown. Then after

Christmas we had some very tough away

games. In early January we scraped

together a side to travel to Carlow where

we put in valiant effort in awful conditions

but were beaten despite a first try for this

writer in around 8 seasons. However I think

the most memorable game was away to

Newbridge during Storm Jorge. The elder

members of the squad all agreed it was by

Lining up for a Friday Night Lights encounter.

65

Fogged up

training night.

far the coldest, windiest and most

miserable conditions they’ve ever played in

but Mary’s still worked hard and got a 12-3

win.

Although the season didn’t end as anyone

expected, the team performed very well

going up a division and deserved to have a

chance to compete for the league and cup.

Thanks to the coaches and management

who put in so much work on the pitch and

behind the scenes for us. Thanks to the

players who put the hours in to make our

season successful and to those who came

out of retirement and came from the U20

and other junior squads to help us out, you

all made a great contribution and we would

have been not had so many successes

without you. I’m sure a few players may

have anticipated that this season would be

their retirement season and did not get that

“one last game” due to the season being

cut short. To those, I hope you come back

for the 2020/2021 season to give it another

crack and for anyone else who hasn’t

played in a while we would love to have you

back!

Season Summary:

Division 9: 2 nd Place (Won 8 Drawn 1 Lost 3)

O’Connor Cup: Cup not held

David Browne

New Jersey hanging brightly.

67

NIALL’S ELEVATION

Congratulations, IRFU Rynner

Wrong ! it is not an exotic African name, nor

a rare species of plant. It refers to St Mary’s

College RFC, LB/IRFU representative, Niall

Rynne’s appointment to the Chair

(Designate) of the IRFU Management

Committee. This is a most significant post in

Irish Rugby and one Niall (Rynner to all

abroad), and the club can look on with pride,

satisfaction and optimism.

Since his Leinster presidency, 2017-18, known

as the musical presidency, (See profile from

2017-18 Yearbook that follows), there has

been no diminution in Niall’s frantic and

positive activities. These activities cover

almost full time, rugby work and social

activities in Leinster, IRFU and St Marys, his

professional career, charity work and family

commitments. Additionally, being a fine

singer, he has choral and church music

commitments. Niall is a charismatic and

charming man, always ready to help. Being

so approachable and helpful, means he

spends a good deal of time helping others.

Socially of course, he is stratospheric, mixing

and meeting every one of all types, tones and

substances. He can get through a crowded

dining hall and never miss a person. It helps

when you have a voice like Rynner, you can

talk to half the Aviva Stadium from one spot

anyway. You would never know, if there were

a dip in babble, he might well have a full scale

choral recital going. His social evenings with

close special friends and special Mary’s men,

Quinner (Eoin Quinn) and Franko (Frank

Kennedy), are nigh on mythological, so

immense is the sociability. They rival even the

magical old days of JB and Sean.

On top of all that, he finds time to involve

himself in his greatly loved alma mater,

Templeogue College’s PPU Society. He still

finds time to keep fit under highly regarded

personal trainer, St Mary’s Marcus (Modser)

O’Driscoll.

Only someone very special can do all that,

and it is not hyperbole, he really does do it

and even more. There is something special in

a person, who can attend three matches in a

69

Niall Rynne

day, make an appearance at several social

events and end up back in his club leading a

singsong, well into the night. However, be

not mistaken, his, work ethic, leadership, and

acumen make him a high quality resource for

IRFU and rugby generally. His ability to blend

extreme sociability with effectiveness is rare

and treasured.

The position as Chair Designate of IRFU

Management Committee, he now takes, is a

highly responsible and exacting one, it is

testament to his abilities. Not since the

inimitable Paddy Bolger (sadly deceased)

and John Hussey (extremely respected

former President of IRFU), has a St Mary’s

College RFC man held an honorary position

of such status or esteem. There is no doubt

that Niall is now in a position that he can

step up to the summit.

It is always good to see one of our own

succeed, It is nigh on impossible to describe

his popularity, not only in his club and in Irish

rugby circles all over the Island, but in the

wider community. It is very rare to be

anywhere with him, without seeing a big

smile and hearing “How’s it going Rynner?”.

D.O’Brien

A PROFILE OF NIALL RYNNE

President Leinster Branch IRFU 2017-18

Extracted from St. Mary’s College RFC Yearbook 2017-18

Introduction

It was 1983 and a young man arrived at St

Mary’s College RFC, having just graduated

from Templeogue College, across the road. He

was Niall Rynne. Niall was one of six Rynne

brothers, close friends and competitors. While

at Logue, Niall, or Rynner to the wider public,

excelled in all respects. He captained his

school senior cup team and was in all arenas,

a true sportsman. He is intensely proud of his

Templeogue College origins and, since leaving

has been involved in PPU activity, including a

spell as president of the PPU. He actively

supports all aspects of Logue activity.

He crossed the road and there found his new

home, St Mary’s College RFC, where he was

to thrive and indeed where he continues to so

do. The moment he arrived it was clear that

he was going to be a leader. The defiant

sparkle in his eyes and the easy smile, marked

him out; not to mention the clarion voice

which defies deafness and defines his inner

spirit. That same voice that can match a

complete kop, can charm at will, or switch to

Niall Rynne

70

memorably melodic song of the highest

quality. He became immediately popular and

remains universally so in the club and wider

social circles.

Rugby

Quickly making his mark on the U19 team as a

backrower, the following season Niall was

selected to captain the U19s. The first season

at the club he also played in a Fox cup

campaign, getting to the final

He then had a long and successful rugby

career, ever commanding attention and

contributing in an outstanding way. On the

field he fearlessly epitomised the soul of the

club. A lot of his rugby was played on the

junior teams, which gave him a deeply-held

empathy with the junior game and he has

become a staunch defender and champion of

all junior rugby. He did play at senior level,

and particularly remembers, with pride and

nostalgia, playing in the Leinster Senior Cup,

at Lansdowne Road.

He captained the third XV twice, winning the

league and cup and he also captained a J3

league winning team. He won nine medals in

all, a hefty haul; including three Fox Cup

medals, alongside many veteran club legends

like, Popey, Dave Donohue and Declan

Fanning. He played in several other finals. He

continued to play, even up to recent seasons,

always willing to put on the boots to help out

a team found short. Additionally, he

frequently refereed junior games, when called

upon. Rynner proved to be a motivational

coach too, and was part of the coaching team

of the U20s in 1994-5.

He was also involved in rugby administration

and was co-director of rugby in the season

2002-03, with his good friend and fellow

Logue alumnus, Kevin Conboy. He later

became the club’s junior representative to the

Leinster Branch IRFU, where he was highly

regarded and hard-working. He made a

particularly notable contribution as chairman

of the competitions’ committee. This is an

especially difficult area to deal with, as junior

rugby was, and is, undergoing significant

changes in player numbers and attitudes,

requiring innovative rearrangement of leagues

to compensate.

Off Field Activity

Since arriving in the club, Niall’s enthusiasm

and willingness to help and get involved in all

aspects of club activity was notable and he

has become so much in demand that there is

hardly a development or change that he has

not led, or had a hand in. His personality and

ability has meant that many events requiring

host or frontman relied on Rynner. And he has

become the consummate MC. He has the

added ability of being a very fine singer. He

loves the microphone and once won a

wrestling competition for a microphone. In

fact he has little need for a microphone with

his built-in PA system, and many a Marys’

team or indeed Leinster or Logue team has

felt the benefit of it. As he got less involved

on the field, he became more involved off the

field. He was the first Junior Vice President in

2007-08 season and followed up as a most

successful and personable club president in

2009-10. Since then, he has been deeply

involved in all aspects of club activity and was

a marvellous MC for the highly successful

“Strictly Marys” series in Croke Park.

Leinster

In 2012 Niall took over as the club’s Leinster

Branch IRFU representative and, as he had

been imbedded in the Leinster culture from

his acclaimed and assiduous work in the

junior committees, he was an immediate

success and an exceptionally popular member

of the executive committee. He became

Leinster junior vice president for season 2015-

16. Having vibrantly supported his senior

colleague last season he now steps up as

president. He has many positive plans for the

domestic game and already has been a

devoted and integrated supporter of the

professional game. Rugby, and particularly

Leinster and IRFU, have much more to get

from Niall.

Family Life

Even Rynner has a life outside rugby. He is

married to Claire, a highly qualified and

71

Niall Rynne with Dan Carter

successful business woman, who is happily,

dedicated to supporting her man in all his

endeavours. As he himself admits, he could

not undertake anything like the amount rugby

related activities, without her forbearance and

positive help and support. Their three girls, all

talented students and daughters, also proudly

support their dad.

He could not have achieved any of this

without that support and help. Neither could

he, without his having a successful insurance

and mortgage consultancy, developed

through hard work, ability and a congenial

personality. Academically, he has achieved

much, with several insurance and banking

qualifications and in 2002 he gained a

coveted MBA from Dublin City University.

On top of all that he finds time to train and

keep fit. He even managed to complete the

Dublin City Marathon.

The club, including all members and

supporters are proud of Rynner and everyone

wishes him a dream year of social enjoyment,

fulfilment and rugby success at Leinster.

D O’Brien

On his final journey, they took him

past his favourite place.

It’s the little details that make a funeral service more personal.

At Fanagans we take care of them all. That’s one reason why, for

200 years, Dubliners have trusted us to deliver excellence in funeral

care with empathy, compassion and dignity.

When your thoughts are with them,

ours are with you.

fanagans.ie

The Fanagan Group includes Carnegies, Kirwans and Nichols.

Tel: 01 4167700

MATT GILSENAN, RIP

Today, 20th July 2020, St Mary’s College RFC

lost one of it its pioneers. A man that

epitomised the values and standards that

defines the club. He has left an indelible legacy.

Matt was the quiet leader that commanded

respect and affection. It was he to whom one

looked for guidance on everything Marys.

Matt was essential to all the major moves and

developments of the club since the 40s.He

was most approachable, ever ready to listen

sympathetically, with help and advice. He was

appreciative, always kind and good

humoured. He was universally popular and

gregarious, most of all honourable.

In 1948 a young Matt Gilsenan, straight from

St Mary’s College, Rathmines, joined the club

that he was to love, serve and guide for 70

years. He held his bond of loyalty to his alma

mater too, and served the PPU with

dedication and leadership.

Matt, although just from school, captained the

3As (J3s now) in the season 1948-49 and his

record cannot be bettered, as he led his team

through the entire season unbeaten and won

the newly created Moran cup in brilliant style.

He later captained the club, and brought his

team on the first ever overseas tour by the

club, to Italy. It turned out to be tough but

successful. Sadly, Matt was injured and had to

give up playing. Well the playing side’s loss

was the administrative side’s gain for he was

to go on to fill every role in that sphere, with

distinction, including presidency from 1975 to

1977. He also turned to refereeing and

refereed with great acumen at all levels to

interprovincial, for many years.

At the age of only 25, Matt was appointed a

trustee of his club, a role he discharged

assiduously for 52 years. In 2007, Matt received

a special award from the club for services

rendered and he was conferred with the highest

club honour; Honorary Life Membership.

From an early stage he had an interest in club

history and memorabilia, keeping photos, club

membership cards, programmes and other

items of interest. Fortunately for the club, he

73

Matt Gilsenan

became the club archivist and kept a

meticulous record of relevant material.

Matt had a highly successful business career

and generously helped young players and St

Mary’s men along their career pathways.

Even in the days of a more male orientated

rugby environment, Matt had his beloved wife

and life partner, Breda, (Sadly deceased) by

his side, inseparable and dedicated. She too

made a generous contribution to St Mary’s.

Their son, John from an early age has been

steeped in Marys and he, like his father, has

played and managed on the rugby side and

has been an officer, president in 2011-12 (when

the AIL was won) and was the first ever club

chairman. Matt’s grandson, John’s son Conor,

has also played for the club with distinction.

It is not really possible to quantify or value

highly enough the work that Matt has done in

every role, as a quiet effective ambassador for

the club and a revered figure of

personification of our club.

A dark day for St Mary’s College RFC.

D O’Brien

A WELCOME ON THE MATT

Written in December 2007

We are fortunate at St Mary’s, that we often

have good and important things to celebrate.

On last Thursday 6th December 2007 we

had a quiet, but one of the most important

and enjoyable celebrations for one of our

greatest ever members.

Some of you may be aware that, for many

years now, Paddy Bolger (the Father of the

House) has been organising monthly lunches

for the more indolent past presidents of St

Mary’s College RFC, usually at Gleesons of

Booterstown. Once a year, before Christmas,

the lunch becomes a “drinch “(a dinner/

lunch) at the club. So it was last Thursday

and all of the 25 attending (24 Past and the

current president Frank Kennedy, as guest),

except one, knew something special was to

happen, so when the meal was over, Matt

Gilsenan got a stunning surprise when Paddy

Bolger, at the invitation of Matt Jones who

introduced him, gave a little profile history of

Matt the Marys man. Paddy, now reaching

nice maturity, remarkably without notes,

reminded us of some of the things Matt did

over many years.

The club was re-instated as a senior club in

1941 and just seven years later, young Matt

Gilsenan joined the club, straight from the

school. He very soon made his mark through

his intense enthusiasm and love for the club,

which he still manifestly carries, and his

rugby ability, he captained the 3As (J3s to

you) in the season 1948-49 and his record

cannot be bettered, as he led his team

through the entire season unbeaten and won

the newly created Moran cup in brilliant style.

He later captained the club and brought his

team on the first ever overseas tour by the

club to Italy. It turned out to be tough but

successful. Sadly Matt was injured and had to

give up playing. Well the playing side’s loss

was the administrative side’s gain for he was

to go on to fill every role in that sphere, with

distinction, including presidency from 1975 to

1977. He also turned to refereeing and

refereed with great acumen at all levels to

interprovincial for many years.

From an early stage he had an interest in club

history and memorabilia, keeping photos,

club membership cards, programmes etc and

Matt holding the

AIL Division 1A

Cup won in 2012

with son John

(President 2011-

2012) and

Hugh Hogan

(Captain 2011-

2012)

74

Matt, Jack Ebbs

(President

2018-2019),

Sean Lynch and

Tom Browne.

fortunately for the club became and is still

the archivist. All the photos seen on the walls

(most taken over decades, by the dedicated

and talented Jim Maguire, now John Pyne is

the snapper) were arranged and kept by Matt

and recently he has had all of these and the

club records put on disc for posterity.

He was, with other great Marys’ men (Paddy

himself to the fore), Bill Fagan, Paddy

Fearon, the late John O’Donoghue and Joe

Fanagan involved in the important developmental

moves which ensured the healthy

progress and status of the club. Firstly, in

1955 when we moved from rented Kimmage

Grove to much loved College Drive (Fortfield

Road) and later to Templeville Road. He was

also intimately involved in the superb

development of the nineties and again

closely scrutinised the exciting addition of

gym facilities etc.

It will be recalled that recently Matt was

seriously ill (now thankfully fully recovered)

and after that illness he decided to step

down from his role as trustee, which he had

fulfilled with assiduous care for 52 years (no

it is not a misprint it was 52 years). It is

impossible to see anyone ever repeating

that. He had been appointed to this highest

post with the great fathers of the club

including Paddy Branagan, Charlie Wilson

and Jimmy Ganter, when he was in his early

twenties, which shows the respect in which

he was held at even that early stage.

Through the dissertation by Paddy, of course

Matt was acutely mortified, but did respond

and thanked Paddy, he said how most of all

he could not have done any of the things he

did without the strong support and active

encouragement of his wonderful wife Breda.

He also said that the things he did, he did

with great love of the club and it was an

honour for him to do them.

We were treated to a, now sadly rare,

glimpse of Liam Birkett’s wry wit when he

said a few words (a few of Liam’s words are

enough) and then he and Matt Jones

brought in an impressive reclining chair,

which they had organised and purchased, it

was presented to Matt ( he hopes it is for his

reclining not declining years). The evening

was very well organised by Brian (Spike)

Fanning and enjoyed by all.

It is not really possible to quantify or value

highly enough the work that Matt has done in

every role, as a quiet effective ambassador

for the club and a revered figure of personification

of our club. It is worth noting that all

extant past presidents, except for those living

abroad or indisposed, were in attendance for

this lovely night, when his peers paid due

respect to a true hero of St Mary’s.

D O’Brien

75

For more information contact:

Mick O’Flaherty – mgoflaherty@gmail.com (087) 738 3603 or

Dan McManus – danmcmanus@gmail.com (086) 344 4836

76

THE EMERALD WARRIORS

Emerald Warriors RFC was formed in August

2003 to provide an open, inclusive and safe

environment to watch, play and enjoy rugby.

The club offers the opportunity to play

competitive rugby in one of our two teams in

both Ireland and the international stage as a

member of International Gay Rugby (IGR).

The clubs vision is to be, the leading

inclusive rugby club, not only in Ireland, but

in the world, leading by example and

achieving success as players, coaches and

supporters through our pathway

development and training.

Emerald Warriors RFC continues to grow

from strength to strength.

Some of our major highlights include hosting

Bingham Cup in 2008 and Union Cup in 2019.

The Union Cup is Europe’s biggest LBGT+

and inclusive rugby tournament, Over 45

LGBT+ and inclusive rugby teams from 15

countries came together to compete for the

Union Cup 2019, with the men’s final refereed

by Nigel Owens. Emerald Warriors teams

were also delighted to be joined by Ireland

Captain; Rory Best, for a surprise training

session in the lead up to the tournament.

In conjunction with Bank of Ireland,

Guinness, Vodafone and a host of amazing

club allies, the Union Cup was a major

success, attracting global attention and over

1,600 visitors to the tournament each day.

Albeit a challenging season with no matches

during this Covid time, Emerald Warriors

success and popularity continues to grow,

following a large influx of members for the

2019/20 season we have maintained many,

brought training online and had our awards

ceremony online also. We were one of three

clubs to sell out our allocation for

YourClubYourCountry draw tickets and look

forward to hosting postponed fundraising

events in 2021. We welcome members of all

levels of experience looking to join, play for

or support our club. For more information,

check us out on www.ewrfc.ie.

As Emerald Warriors RFC continues to grow

and develop, we are always grateful for the

support we receive in the background from

the IRFU and Leinster branch. We are also

very grateful to everyone at St. Mary’s RFC,

for there ongoing support and friendship.

- Emerald Warriors RFC -

www.ewrfc.ie

www.facebook.com/emeraldwarriorsrugby/

www.twitter.com/ewrfc

www.instagram.com/emeraldwarriors/

Emerald Warriors RFC

The Emerald Warriors Squad

77

LADIES’ LUNCH 2020

Saturday 29 th February 2020 was the day of

our Ladies’ Lunch. It took place on the day of

the 1 st XV v Malone AIL Division 1B game in

the club.

An enjoyable day was had by all. The hall

downstairs was fully booked out for the

occasion.

The event was a fundraiser for Pieta House,

with guest speaker Johnny Bell.

Well done and a massive THANK YOU to all

the ladies who organised and attended our

Ladies’ Lunch 2020, led by Marie Hammond.

It was one of, if not the best attended, in

recent memory and everyone had a brilliant

day!

78

79

ANNUAL AWARDS NIGHT 2020

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, we were not

able to get together for our traditional Clubs

Sevens and Captains Dinner night, normally

held in May at the end of every season.

However, despite this, we still marked the

night with a virtual awards ceremony to mark

the season and honour our teams.

This launched on 9 th May 2020, the night that

would have been our Captains Dinner night

last season.

As well as season reviews for each team and

announcement of team player of the year

winners, the video features reviews from

Youth Rugby and Mini Rugby, as well as some

special words from outgoing President

Michael O’Flaherty, Niall Rynne and some

special messages.

Here is the list of the award winners for

Season 2019-2020:

• 1 st XV – Richie Halpin

• J2 XV – Padraig Dundon

• U20 XV – Sean Bourke

• J2 XV – Fionan Magee

• J3 XV – Michael O’Maley

• J4 XV – Conor Quinn

• Vets – Julien Beatty

• Clubman of the year – John Bainbridge

• AIL Try of the Season

– Hugo Conway v Banbridge

Well done to all the award winners.

Many thanks to all our team’s management

for taking part and making this a success.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/O7uZrKRi33Y

80

Is it Hereditary?

Matt and John – Presidents in their times

It has been rightly stressed that last season’s

marvellous AIL success was due not only to the

present squad, coaches, management and

administration but also to those preceding

them for several years then maybe this line

goes back even further in the case of

presidents, for last season’s president, John

Gilsenan is son of one of our most illustrious

members and a previous president in 1975-77,

Matt Gilsenan; and John is the first member to

be a son of a former president. Matt joined St

Marys in 1948, straight from St Mary’s College

and immediately made his mark by captaining

a J3 team to win that season’s Moran Cup. He

went on to captain the senior team (1953-55)

and lead the club on it maiden club tour to Italy

in 1955, sadly injury ended his playing career,

however he became a top quality referee for

many years and he was to become even more

valuable to the club by being a trustee,from the

age of 25 until recently and serving on serial

committees over many years and being

involved in all the major changes and

developments in the club’s history including

playing a pivotal role, alongside his great

friends Paddy Bolger, Brian Whelan, Vinno Mc

Govern and Bill Fagan, in the major move from

College Drive to Templeville Road. He has

always been a major influence in infusing the

club with its ethos and developing the club

culture. He is an honorary life member and is

greatly revered and admired. His wife Breda

has been a wonderful support to him and to

her son, which is no surprise to anyone who

knows that admirable lady; she too is of course

from a strong rugby tradition.

It was a pleasure all season to see Matt’s close

relationship with all involved and particularly his

and all the family’s support for John, it was clear

that he and Breda enjoyed totally the season

and all the associated rugby and social functions.

John also, has had a long and distinguished

career at St Mary’s and he too is a past pupil of

St Mary’s College, leaving in 1980 and after a

spell at his University (UCD), he came home to

St Marys and played for the club at junior level.

In the early 1990s, he was involved in team

management and was the club honorary

treasurer from 1995 to 1999. He and his father

have another thing in common, Matt was a

81

John and Matt Gilsenan

director of Murray-Hertz and John is also

involved in cars, being a director of Porsche

Ireland; shows they both have great drive. John

had strong support from his family, with his

wife Micheline and son Conor closely and

generously involved in the season’s calendar.

No president has worked harder, as he

attended his duties assiduously and he worked

unremittingly throughout the year showing

initiative and imagination. He was vitally

supported and helped by his officers and

committee and especially so by his vicepresident

Michael Fanagan (one of another

outstanding St Mary’s family and nephew of

former captain and president, Joe Fanagan),

his junior vice-president the ubiquitous Steven

Hennessy and his predecessor Ronnie McBrien.

No doubt, John and his family shall remain

intimately involved in the future affairs and

direction of the club.

Interestingly, this year our club captain, the

most admired Richard Sweeney, is son of a

previous great club captain and president

James (JB) Sweeney and is the first son of a

former captain, to captain the club.

Maybe it is genetic, in the DNA, maybe our club

has a strain of loyalty, ability and dedication,

which is in its genome, transferable through

generations. Let us hope.

D O’Brien

GOLF CLASSIC 2020

The annual St. Mary’s College RFC Golf

Classic 2020 took place last Friday, 28th

August in the Castle Golf Club.

A number of teams took part in the event.

A great day was had by all.

Prizes Kindly

Sponsored by

Many thanks to the team led by Frank

Kennedy.

Many thanks also to Fanagan’s Funeral

Homes for kindly sponsoring the prizes

RESULTS:

1st Prize - 85 points

Paul Lundy, Jack Lundy, Kevin Kinsella.

2nd Prize - 83 points

Steve Hennessy, David Taylor, Pat O’Neill.

3rd Prize - 80 points

Declan Coleman, Declan Howard, Declan

Fanning.

4th Prize - 79 Points (Back Nine) Sisk Group

Paul Carmody, Aidan Daly, Paddy Delaney.

5th Prize - 79 Points

Steve Tracey, David Coen, Dave O’Riordan.

Best First Nine - 40 points

Des McGarry, Niall O’Dwyer, John Reynolds.

Best Back Nine - 43 points

Bobby O’Connor, Peter Byrne, Niall Rynne.

Nearest the Pin - David Taylor

Longest Drive - Dave O’Riordan

Team Needing Most Improvement

Vinnie Murray, Jamie Coolican, Myles Carey.

All the lovely

prizes!

82

Gerry Delaney,

Ian Grimson

and Brian Moran.

Garry Manning, Paul Moran

and Eamon Moran.

Paddy Power,

Vinnie Cunningham

(Current Club President)

and Conor Ridge .

83

“LIAM, DO I KNOW YOU?”

Liam, Do I know you? Sometimes it is worth

making the effort to get to know a person

and if you don’t know Liam already, make

the effort to get to know him. It is worth a

laugh from the start and for lots more

reasons later on; for he is a special person

and Marys’ man. It is Liam Birkett to whom I

refer.

The club has grown enormously over the

years and it is not always possible to know

everyone and sometimes, even persons who

have contributed seminally for very many

years. In the distant past, (only a few

summers ago to us superannuated

members), Liam was in St Mary’s College, at

school, where he developed his skills in

gurning, conkers, escapology from classes

he did not fancy, ink bombs; and other

useful hobbies. Although, he played rugby,

he was most proficient in football and

basketball, much to the chagrin of certain

clerical gentlemen. In fact, Liam got Irish

Schoolboys’ final trials for both. He had

spent four years in the Junior School and six

in the Senior School, becoming talented in

maths. He always says it was the best 13

years he ever spent!

When he left school, he remained attached

to his alma mater, was president of the PPU,

and remains involved to this day. After his

school days he soon joined St Mary’s College

RFC, then at College Drive. Being a hefty 10

stone 12 pounds (64.3Kg) naturally, he

played prop. He played junior rugby all

during the 60s and enjoyed greatly the

game, the camaraderie and the après match.

He captained the 3rd Bs (J4s). He was

always great company with a sharp wit,

generous nature and happy countenance. He

remained part of the club since, and has

constantly contributed. His loyalty and

dedication are resolute.

He attends all the AIL games in which Mary’s

play and is a knowledgeable supporter. Liam

found himself involved in all the

Liam Birkett and

former President

of Ireland,

Mary McAleese

84

O’Connor Cup (J5) Winners 1992

Back Row: Brendan (Reg) Foley, Alan Cooke, Paul Chew, John Boyle, Keith Jones, Peter Byrne, Conor Cooke.

Front Row: Darren Walker, An Other, Paul Glynn (Captain), Liam Birkett (President), Enda O’Riordain,

CJ McHenry, Bobby O’Connor.

developments that have seen our club

become one of the foremost and successful

in the entire island; including producing

more British and Irish players than any other

club. He served on the executive committee

and was president during season 1991-92. He

has been a very active trustee now for ten

years. He and his fellow trustees, Brendan,

Brian and JB have a particularly effective

and harmonious relationship, as they guard

our financial stability. He has been involved

in valuable fundraising efforts and has

donated generously from his own resources.

He has been the club after-dinner speaker

on a number of occasions, with his sharp,

understated wit, being very popular. During

his presidential year, he spoke at seven

Leinster club dinners. As late as our last club

dinner, he gave the toast to the guests. With

all that practice, he now speaks almost

fluent English!

Outside of his club involvements, he has had

a most successful social, family and business

life. Liam formed a design and marketing

company, Bernardini, Birkett and Gardner.

He is an expert on intellectual properties and

trademarks. He created corporate identity

and marketing projects for companies such

as, Smurfit, K Club and Waterford Foods.

Liam was too, managing director of O’Darby

cream liqueur. This he launched on 17 world

markets, before selling the company to the

Bacardi Corporation. Cheers! He was a

consultant to Peoples Republic of China

advising on design and marketing to the

West. (We won’t tell Trump) and when on an

EU experts panel he was chosen by the

European Commission to introduce the

Community Trade Mark and Euro to some of

the new entrant countries. Amongst his

other achievements are: Past President and

fellow of the Irish Design Institute and held

officer roles with charities, MS, Deaf and

Garda. He continues to do consultancy work

and is a mentor with many of the Local

Enterprise Offices. He keeps fit and active

during the Covid-19, and with a sharp mind,

he is never bored although he cannot

indulge his epicurean tastes with visits to

restaurants.

Liam is extremely affable, so any of you who

see him up at the matches or at functions do

greet him with Liam, do I know you ? You

will then, and be glad you do.

D.O’Brien

85

RICHARD HALPIN

- 1st XV Captain - A ‘Snapshot’

Yes, the Covid restrictions are tough, just

getting a lot tougher still. It is a difficult time

for all of us. Hard it is to realise that it will

get back to near normality over the coming

months. However, meantime do what you

can to help others, hang in and believe, keep

busy and fit.

Do turn your mind to our club captain

Richard Halpin. Here is a young man who

had his dearest dream realised early this

year, when his peers and his club selected

him to be the club captain; the highest

honour a club player can ever receive. You

all realise what it means, and all the hard but

exciting jobs that follow. Things such as

recruiting new players, mustering his squad,

helping coaches, managers and players all

have to be done. He should now be into the

AIL, with all that means. He should be

making more friends with players at all

levels; having great evenings with his

teammates after games. His family who has

intense interest in his rugby career and who

we have seen at the matches all over the

country since we were fortunate enough to

have Richie join St. Mary’s College RFC. In

other words representing his club in every

manner possible. Instead, in this labile state,

he has just managed to get in four games

since his inauguration and knows not when

the next one will be. Is Richie bewailing his

bad luck, no he is full of enthusiasm. He has

spent his time supporting others and

training. So far we have seen enough to

appreciate his total immersion in his role and

his club. He is a superb player and leader

exemplar, ever working, he is at almost every

breakdown, effodient, or guarding the flanks

with tormenting tackles or ready to launch

attacks with avid alacrity. He loves working

with Steve, Jamie, Mark and Modser; also

Paudge and his team. It is always a joy to

meet with Richard, for he is the epitome of a

gentleman and a healthy, happy, young man;

the perfect choice for Club Captain.

dad are at every match, and have been since

Richie joined St. Mary’s in 2016. Richie like

his dad, has a wicked sense of humour and

his mum is a brilliant photographer, making

snap decisions and catching them unaware,

to their embarrassment on occasions. Well

she specialises in wildlife photography after

all! Sister Laura is the creative genius in the

family and works in advertising.

Richie was a Blackrock College boy, a star

pupil and a rugby player; one of Smythy’s

Rock-boys. Leaving school in 2010 he did

law at Trinity where he played on a high

quality team, with other Marys’ men, David

Fanagan, Nick McCarthy, Jack Dilger and

Paddy Lavelle. You can imagine the fun, you

could almost hear David’s laugh. Having

completed his law degree he went to

For those of you who do not know Richie or

his family, a little bit about him. His mum and

86

Richie Halpin

Richie in

support

Oxford, where he did a masters in law and

finance. During his time there, he had the

dream experience of playing in the 2015

Oxford vs Cambridge match in Twickenham.

Getting an Oxford Blue is a marvellous and

memorable experience. His time in Oxford

not only favoured him but us also, for he had

a brought, close friend, fellow Blue, and

former under-age English international 7,

Gus Jones to Mary’s. Gus was a brilliant

player for us and a most agreeable young

man.

Richie qualified as a solicitor in 2019 and

joined Matheson. He always had an interest

in psychology, and has gone back to Trinity

to add that to his list if you don’t mind!. He is

obviously working his way through life by

degrees

When asked, what he had being doing

during Covid-19, he replied, “When last

season was called off a group of us kept the

bodies ticking over by following a weekly

programme from Marcus O’Driscoll

(Modser). I have done a lot of reading and

87

must have walked almost every trail in

Dublin now. Pre-season couldn’t come soon

enough, even just to see and socialise with

the lads again. I’ve taken a couple of

staycations in Ireland (Giants Causeway,

Kerry, Clare) when the restrictions permitted,

including a brilliant trip on the west coast

with Tommer. I’ve been brushing up on my

golf, which I absolutely love and can’t wait

for plenty more of it when I am eventually

dragged out of rugby”.

It is hard to hariolate the rest of the season,

but Richie is at the ready, come what may.

He deserves the many things that go with

captaincy, the club dinner, post-match

celebrations and very many more things, but

sadly it may not be. However, he has an

admirable attitude and stoically takes all

adversity as it comes. We are very lucky to

have a philosopher as captain this year. The

players all remain ready for action and every

one of them will tell you how popular their

skipper is and that Richie is ever ready to

lend a “Halpin hand”.

D. O’Brien

Most will have noticed that Tom Grace (or

Gracer to his teammates) has just stepped

down from his prestigious role as Honorary

Treasurer of IRFU, a role that he has filled

with great distinction for 13 years. As he was

on the field, he was likewise as treasurer,

fearless. He defended his stance, which was

invariably wise, whether in loosening or

closing the coffers. Professionally, he, was a

well-known, talented and successful

accountant.

As well as being a much admired and

effective Hon. Treasurer, he was of course a

highly acclaimed rugby player. He was

undeniably one of St Mary’s College RFC’s

greatest ever players, he played throughout

the 70s. He joined from UCD. In his club

career he was a brilliant winger, big, strong,

fast and skilful, rhapsodic in motion, playing

alongside great players, like, Sean Lynch,

John Moloney, Tom Feighery, JB Sweeney,

Ciaran Fitzgerald (Capt. Lions), Denis Hickie

Snr, Terry Young, Rodney O’Donnell, Frank

and Terry Kennedy, Tony Ward, Seamus

Deering, Declan Fanning, Tony Hickie, Eddie

Wigglesworth, Michael Glynn and Paul and

Alberto Andreucetti. They were times of

peerless St Mary’s College RFC teams.

St Marys won the most coveted All-Ireland

(Bateman) Cup in 1975, in Limerick. This

competition was to mark the centenary of

the IRFU. The four provincial champions

played over one weekend. The weekend

beforehand, Tom, excelled against Old

Wesley to ensure St Mary’s won the Leinster

Senior Cup, so qualifying to play against

Bangor in the semi-final, when he shone and,

he once again starred v Garryowen in the

final. He scored the only try in a 9-9 draw. In

the case of a draw try numbers were

decisive and his try was the only one scored.

He also converted his try and scored a

penalty. A try then was valued 4, and a

conversion 2.

He scored some even more celebrated and

important ones for Ireland. One in

Lansdowne Road, against New Zealand in

1973. He scored a wonderful last minute try

to bring the score to 10-10, only to see Barry

McGann’s fine kick from far out, blown very

TOM O. GRACE

88

Tom Grace

slightly off course. In 1972, due to The

Troubles, Wales and Scotland refused to

come to Ireland to fulfil their Five Nations

games, but in 1973, England to their great

credit, came to Lansdowne Road. Tom

scored the first try. Two other Marys’ heroes

played that day, Sean Lynch and John

Moloney. This was one of the great events in

Irish sporting history; equal to 2009 in Croke

Park. Those who attended both, have a

treasure in their hearts.

Tom won 25 caps between 1972 and 1978.

This would probably equate to 125 in

modern terms. He and another Mary’s star,

John Moloney, were capped on the same

day and played together at all levels

including for the British and Irish Lions in the

famous 1974 winning tour of South Africa.

He captained Ireland on eight occasions.

Later in life, he served on the Lions

Tom Grace in

action for

Ireland in Stade

Olympique

Yves-du-

Manoir,

Colombes

against Jack

Cantoni of

France on 29th

January 1972.

Ireland won this

Five Nations

encounter 14-9.

committee and then in 2014 he was

appointed Chairman of the British and Irish

Lions. This was momentous honour for Tom,

and one he greatly appreciated.

Tom Grace has always stayed in close

contact with St Mary’s, attending functions

with his old teammates, usually on the

celebrated JB organised table. He remains in

touch with JB, two firm friends. He always

supports St Mary’s fundraising functions,

including our two highly successful Lions

Legends dinners.

No doubt, Tom has a lot more on his future

agenda and we all wish him well and a long

contented retirement from rugby

administration. We hope too to see him

often up at Templeville Road.

D. O’Brien

Patrick Crawford

Election

The Club President and Officers together

with the Trustees are delighted to announce

and congratulate our current Vice-President,

Patrick Crawford on his recent election to

the post of Chairman of the Senior Clubs

Committee within Leinster Branch.

This is a well deserved appointment for

Patrick and just reward for the work he has

done and continues to do for both St Mary’s

College RFC and the wider Leinster Branch

community.

89

Patrick Crawford

St. Mary’s College (CSSp.)

Past Pupils’ Union

The President of the Union,

BRIAN McENIFF,

wishes

St. Mary’s College Rugby Football Club

every success for the season.

90

RUGBY IN ST. MARY’S COLLEGE CSSp

Well as we come to the end of an

extraordinary year in all our lifetimes, we

hope that both the Senior and Junior Cups

are played for the Season 2020/21. A once in

100-year pandemic hits us in early Spring

and sends us all home from school on the

12/03/2020. We are faced with no further

skill development for the last school term,

no specific weights sessions to build up the

boys. Instead, we are faced with many Zoom

sessions led ably by our Head S&C Luke

O’Dea to try to occupy the SCT and JCT

Squads of this season plus indeed the

remainder of the School Rugby Programme.

It worked reasonably well but nothing could

replace the hard work carried out in the gym

on any day you choose. Boys were given

individual running programmes and once

again nothing compares to working in

groups where the competition is intense in

Senior and Junior Cup Groupings. Alas we

got something of a reprieve in mid-summer

when the lock down was lifted. It allowed us

to prepare for Pre-Season in early August

and upcoming games in early September

and beyond. Sadly, we only got to play three

games, the Seniors playing the Club Under

20s side and the Juniors playing two fixtures

against Gonzaga, three wins were notched

up and the future looked bright. Then an

escalation of the Covid-19 cases occurred,

and we had to stop playing immediately, no

contact followed in sessions but at least we

were allowed to continue to train. Training

simply looks like it should, pods of 15

including coaching staff working on skills,

conditioning themselves through games but

not the same obviously as normal rugby

sessions.

As we approach December, we are all

extremely optimistic that we will revert to

Level 3 minimum and that contact training

and games can commence. Level 2 would be

ideal but not looking probable given a small

increase in the daily rates of Covid and sadly

some deaths after significant reductions

since a return to Level 5 a month ago. I am

extremely optimistic that Cup campaigns

will occur after Christmas, they might be put

back a little, might be run off over a shorter

period, might be played behind closed doors

but I think everyone behind the scenes is

SCT warm up ahead on the roadside pitch of friendly with the Club’s U20’s.

91

Final preparation

by SCT ahead of

U20’s friendly.

encouraging this to happen. It would be

such a shame for the boys in 6th year in

particular if they were able to represent their

schools and families in a Senior Cup in 2021.

I believe the glass is half full on this and that

our desires will be satisfied. It won’t make

things any easier, but it will be the same for

all schools and whoever wins fair play.

Our SCT Coaching Group runs along similar

lines this season with club Coaches Jamie

Cornett and Mark Sexton at the helm ably

supported by Derek Dowling and John

Wynne with Darren Duffy taking on the role

of Manager this season. An excellent group

with vast experience who have worked

tirelessly on and off the pitch during

lockdown as well. We are also extremely

lucky that one Hugh Hogan, former Club AIL

winning Captain, Club International and

current Leinster IRFU breakdown coach is

involved with this group as a consultant. It is

a pleasure to have him involved and indeed

we are all benefitting from his expertise

gained at Professional level. The Squad itself

is comprised of circa 45 players, a number of

whom played on the Junior Cup Team three

years ago that sadly lost to Blackrock

College 17-24 in the Final at Donnybrook

after a magnificent campaign beating

Newbridge, Terenure and Belvedere along

the way. We have high hopes for this group,

they continue to train hard and like anything

in life one needs a certain amount of luck

along the way. The standards are increasing

all the time and we are fully aware of the

strength of the competition out there across

Leinster. It will in my opinion take a good

squad to beat our group this season. Sean

Healy looks after our Senior 3rds Group this

year and is doing an excellent job in support

to the SCT Group. The evergreen Rodney

O’Donnell and Paul Opperman are looking

after the Senior 4ths this season and as

always deliver excellent coaching and games

training focus to this group. We must not

forget our excellent S&C Coach Luke O’Dea

who oversees the Weights and Conditioning

Programme now recently assisted by new

recruit Daniel Iannelli.

Our Transition Group this season is Coached

by Martin Quinn, Teacher and Dean of that

year ably supported by Student and Club

players Hugo Conway and Ciaran O’Meara.

We are hugely indebted to all our Student

Coaches who do excellent work across the

school and who are maintaining that close

connection with their ‘Alma Mater’, it really

works well for us as a school rugby strategy.

92

The JCT Squad also has a similar Coaching

Group to last season with Kieran Moloney at

the helm ably supported by Club S&C Coach

Marcus O’Driscoll and Student Coach Ronan

Watters our excellent club number 8 and

Richie Bergin past pupil and current UCD

RFC First Team player. Paul Butler does a

fantastic job as Manager of this Squad and

indeed coaches the JLT side. We have a very

promising group at JCT Level this season,

we are hugely positive and hopeful for the

season ahead but once again the

competition is hugely intense with St

Michael’s and Newbridge two particular

sides to watch out for plus the obvious other

regular competitors. Mark Matthews, Teacher

looks after the JLT 2 side ably supported by

former past pupil Patrick Ryan.

Second Year Coaches this year are Alastair

White at the helm supported by Dylan

Stewart, both teachers and also by Student

Coaches and current members of St Mary’s

College RFC Ruairi Shields, Sean Bourke and

Under 20 Captain Ian Wickham. They work

tirelessly on the skills of the boys through

games and conditioning and try to ensure

that they are ready for the JCT campaign

the following season. They usually lose a

number of payers up to the JCT squad as

second years, this season is no exception

with 8 players up there and 2 or 3 likely to

feature on the JCT starting team. Watch this

space.

Finally, we have our biggest group this year

at any level across the school. 96 boys

entered first year in September 2020 and 92

of them participated in the initial Rugby

Camp held in Kenilworth each August. Most

of them continue to participate and they are

looked after by Daire Brennan from the

Teacher ranks supported by John Murphy of

Skerries, formerly Gonzaga and IRFU

together with Anthony Gallagher of the

School and also assisted by Student

Coaches who all play at the Club at either

first team or Under 20 Level. They are Joe

Nolan, Jamie Coolican, Dylan Jameson, Max

Whelan, Jack McSharry. Finally, but not least

we have Club Legend Paul Andreucetti

continuing to provide his vast experience at

this level also in the school. Long may it

continue.

Kicking practice

in Rathmines

on the new

All-Weather

Front pitch.

93

SCT warm up

ahead on the

roadside pitch of

friendly with the

Club’s U20’s.

It has been an extremely frustrating year so

far for the Junior School with no Saturday

rugby at all, no games obviously. We

continue to provide daily training to the

various years to include games, skill

development and conditioning. In this

regard the Junior School is lucky to have

Ray Sloan, Gamesmaster to drive the

efforts ably supported by his fellow

teachers Gareth Agnew, Dan Monahan,

Audrey O’Flynn and of course Ray’s son

David together with the many parents who

give so freely of their time to the boys and

the school weekly. We are indebted hugely

to them and thank you most sincerely on

my behalf and that of both the Senior and

Junior Schools. Here’s hoping for a few

Blitzes after Christmas to keep the

momentum going. They are the future;

we need to continue to invest in their

development as players and

representatives of the Spiritan community.

That’s about it I think on the Coaching side.

I’d like to thank the school for all the

support it provides to me in my role as

Director of Rugby. In particular thanks to

Denis Murphy, Principal and Barry Leonard,

Vice-Principal together with the Teachers

and Staff who make my life so easy on a

day-to-day basis. It is a real community

spirit in the school and a pleasure to work

there.

Can I wish all the Officers of the Club every

success in this most difficult of seasons. In

94

particular I wish Club President Vinnie

Cunningham a most enjoyable season at

the helm. I hope it is successful on and off

the field of play if we ever get really up and

running. Vinnie was a tremendous player in

his day for club, province, country and with

the British & Irish Lions. I had the privilege

of winning a treasured Leinster Senior Cup

medal with him in 1987 and indeed a Senior

league medal in 1989. It was a pleasure to

have been on the same side during that

strong period in the clubs history. Vinnie

follows in the footsteps of his beloved dad

John D as Club President and will do an

excellent job representing the club like his

Dad did for so many years. Best of luck

with it all Mr President.

Good luck to all the staff who help to run

the club, in particular Club Administrator

Marie Hammond who works tirelessly on so

many fronts and Tony McGuinness in the

bar and of course our new groundsman

Peter O’Kelly. Thanks finally to our Club

PRO, Maurice Davin who works tirelessly for

the club at so many levels.

See you all either in the club or at a schools

cup match over the coming months!

Best Wishes

Steve Hennessy

Director of Rugby

St Marys College CSSp.

TIMES PAST & PRESENT

From the Archives

Compiled by MATT GILSENAN – reprinted from 2009/10 Yearbook

2nd XV METROPOLITAN CUP VICTORY

1969-70

After a lapse of seventeen years, the Leinster

Metropolitan Cup was won by our 2nd XV

who beat Terenure in a thrilling Final by

eleven points to eight.

All during the season it was felt that this

team would eventually ‘come good’, and so

they did in no uncertain fashion. Having

disposed of Palmerston after a replay in the

first round, we travelled to Greystones to

play the very strong local side, who are

currently intent on gaining promotion to

Senior Level in round two. However, a great

display by our pack and some fine placekicking

by fullback Ciaran O’Connell saw us

safely through, by 12 points to 6, to the semifinal,

where our opponents, Bective Rangers,

proved no match for the all-round strength

of our team. In the end we had a comfortable

enough victory.

METROPOLITAN CUP WINNERS

P. Bolger, R. Foley, G. Fanning, C. Ryan, J. Murray, M. Rigney, T. McCormick, V. McGovern.

G. O’Hagan, D. Jennings, A. Andreucetti, G. Hooke (Captain) M. Jones, C. O’Conaill, F. Meehan.

E. Mullen, J. Kinahan.

Photo: James G. Maguire

95

Thus to the final against our traditional rivals,

Terenure who fielded a team that had

already won the Junior League for them a

few weeks previously, and which was

unbeaten in fact throughout the season.

In the first period of the match, Terenure

certainly justified their position as favourites

and by half-time we were fortunate enough

to be only eight-nil in arrears. They

commenced the second half, where they left

off before the interval, by continually

stretching our defence with clever attacking

football.

However, our lads stuck to their task quite

welI and no further scores were registered

against us. Then midway through the second

half our pack began to get on top and our

efforts were rewarded shortly afterwards

with a penalty goal from Ciaran O’Connell.

This score inspired us to even greater efforts

and some really stirring forward play from

then on saw us score a try by Johnny

Kinahan, which was converted by Ciaran

O'Connell, who then proceeded to make

victory ours when he kicked a penalty goal in

the dying minutes of a match, which for St.

Mary’s supporters was almost as thrilling in

the end as the memorable Senior Cup Final

win of the previous year.

Whilst eventually this was a team victory,

nevertheless skipper George Hook, and team

manager Vincent McGovern, must take great

credit for the tremendous amount of work

and effort they put in during the season to

ensure that the past provide at least one

more trophy for the College side-board in

I970.

Billy Fagan

96


From the Archives

Extract from Fred Cogley centenary book

THE CLUB REVIVAL – 1932-40

Gerry Cox was one of the new wave of St.

Mary’s past students to go to UCD in the late

’20s and early ’30s. Since the College in

Rathmines had reopened in 1926 there had

been a trickle of keen rugby players

beginning to look around for clubs to join on

leaving school. Some enjoyed membership

of the university clubs but there were many

who weren’t eligible or who had left school

early and it was Cox who began to wonder

whether it was a realistic possibility that the

old St. Mary’s club could be re-established.

There were certainly plenty of the pre-1916

gang about but now 16 years later, Cox knew

that their playing days were long since over

and there might not be the appetite to get

involved in the administrative hurly burly of

setting up a football club and all that that

would entail. However, even as a freshman,

Gerry Cox was to show the drive and in

intiative that was to mark his subsequent

career which earned him the rank of

Commandant. He rounded up potential

players and having collected 25 who would

be willing to turn out if..., he sought out the

inspirational captain of St. Mary’s in the

heady pre-war days of 1911-12 , Ernest Farrell.

Fr. Ernest Farrell, who had founded the

Catholic Boy Scouts of Ireland, was a curate

in Aughrim St., Dublin, at the time, and his

regard for anything associated with St.

Kimmage Grove Pavilion and ‘Tea Room’ (1932-54)

97

Mary’s was undiminished. When the young

Gerry Cox tentatively outlined his thoughts,

he could hardly have imagined the

enthusiastic reception he would get. The

idea of gathering together the members of

the old Old St. Mary’s with the new wave so

excited Fr. Ernest that within hours of that

first meeting, Gerry Cox found himself on a

roller-coaster of activity.

He was organising meetings, making contact

with the people Fr. Farrell knew would be

capable of getting things done – and fast! It

was hectic, almost frantic as the task force

took shape. Allied to the enthusiasm of Fr.

Farrell and the organisational ability of Cox,

the dynamism of youngsters like Jimmy

Canter, Paddy Branagan, John G. Gogan,

Frank Purcell, William Fanagan, Nicky Power

and A. E. O’Brien ensured that there would

be no going back.

Within a fortnight they had organised a

ground for their home matches. It was an

amazing coup to have been able to rent a

pitch in such a short space of time and if

anyone had doubted the intentions of the

group or their ability to achieve their targets,

he would have been reassured by such

speedy action.

It was appropriate that the new grounds

were adjacent to the large Holy Ghost

seminary at Kimmage Manor. Mrs. Doherty

had a poultry farm at Kimmage Grove, with

the entrance gate on Fortfield Road facing

directly down ‘Green Lanes’, later to become

Greenlea Road, and she was happy to rent

out two fields towards the back of the farm.

For over 20 years, Kimmage Grove was to

become home for the new St. Mary’s College

RFC until the entire property was to be

developed as part ofthe College Park Estate.

In those days, there were few houses in the

area and the farms extended across Fortfield

from Terenure College with only the villages

of Templeogue and Tallaght dotted on the

map. The fields that St. Mary’s rented were

slightly elevated and would be found very

close to where Templeville Road and

Templeogue College are today. Exposed to

the elements as it was, the top field – or

senior pitch – was always in good shape but

always chilly and it quickly became known as

Kimmage ‘Grave’.

Having secured the pitch, it was decided

that as they didn’t have the resources to

build a pavilion (clubhouses hadn’t become

fashionable in the ’30s!) they had to find

some alternative. Their search led them to a

builder’s yard in Sandymount, where for the

princely sum of £50 they purchased a

spacious timber shed. Under the direction of

Nicky Power the shed was brought to

Kimrnage Grove and erected in the wide,

open spaces close to a tributary of the

Poddle River. For the first couple of seasons,

this stream ensured that the players could

wash off some of the mud that accumulated

during a game and for the really hardy ones,

there were plenty of aluminium basins

available to provide ‘showers’!

A Minor Miracle

The basic furniture of benches, trestle tables

and a few chairs for the changing rooms

were the remnants of the temporary seating

that had been used earlier during the

Eucharistic Congress of 1932 at the Mass

celebrated in the Phoenix Park. The

enterprising committee members had

spotted the opportunity and within weeks

Gerry Cox, Fr. Farrell, his brother Fr. Tom and

their small team had worked a minor miracle.

The infrastructure had been established and

it was to remain in place for the next 20

years. A boiler house was added fairly

quickly when water was laid on to the

pavilion but, during the years of World War II

(1939-45), there were times when there was

no fuel available and the after-match shower

became a freezing endurance test – again!

Even at the best of times it paid dividends to

get to the showers first. There was also a

cold eye cast on any referee who played

extended injury time in a match because that

meant that the players in the match on the

other pitch would get first use of the hot

water and probably use most of it!

There were other ‘joys’ associated with

Kimmage Grove which were not anticipated

in the euphoria of 1932. Because the grounds

were rented to the club for week-end

matches, they were used for grazing cattle

and sheep during the week. It was a handy

way of keeping the grass cut but there was a

residual disadvantage which ground

committees over the years had to solve.

98

Metropolitan Cup

Winners, 1939-40

Back: M. Collison,

A. Norton, C. Mangan,

J. Quigley, J. Ganter,

L. Ganter.

Centre: J. Walker,

T. Bergin, T. Boyce,

D. Smyth (Capt.),

T Kelly, B. Arigho,

J. Meaney.

Front: P. Meehan,

P. Branagan.

Jimmy Canter would corral some of the

younger rnembers, hand them a few shovels

and send them off to clear the pitches of the

dung. Not always were the youngsters as

diligent as they might have been, particularly

on a wet, windy Saturday morning.

Having worked so hard, though, the

mornentum had to be maintained in those

hectic days of the late summer of 1932 and

the necessity to strengthen the ad hoc group

was obvious. The formal revival of St. Mary’s

College RFC was the first priority and it is

generally accepted that the rebirth took

place on September 8th, 1932, when Paddy

Branagan was elected as the first Captain of

the Club. For several years afterwards, Nicky

Power took on the responsibilities of

attending to the chores of managing the

grounds – marking the lines, putting in the

flags – and collecting them – and generally

ensuring that all the necessary details had

been attended to.

Many of the pre-1916 members had returned

to lend their support and they were joined

by Frank R. Doherty, Lorcan C. Gogan, Dr. J.

F. O’Grady, V. E. Becker and others, including

the Rev. ‘Doe’ O’Neill, Val Buggy and Ossie

Hennessy. But, while their application for

re-admittance to the Leinster Branch was

accepted, they were too late to enter for the

various League competitions of the 1932-33

season.

99

Nonetheless, there was no shortage of

activity in that first season as a full list of

friendlies was drawn up and St. Mary’s was

included in the draw for the Metropolitan

Cup. Alas, it didn’t turn out to be a dream

return to competition when they lost their

first round tie to the then powerful Railway

Union but off-the-field activity was hugely

successful. The College, as ever, had been

superbly supportive and while the front field

in Rathmincs was again at the disposal of

the club for evening training, the College hall

was available for countless concerts, whist

drives and various fund-raising activities.

Indeed, in May 1934, the Club presented a

very ambitious concert in the College to help

to improve facilities at Kimmage Grove

probably for the boiler house extension! In

addition to a drill display by the pupils, there

were several well-known artistes of the time

involved, as well as the two Frank Purcells,

senior and junior, whose humorous sketch

was the hit of the night.

That was at the end of the first full season of

competition for the club, captained by Joe

Whelan. Whelan had just arrived in St. Mary’s

as a Prefect and be was probably the most

outstanding of the many Prefects who

subsequently played for the club while they

continued their training in the College. Joe

Whelan later became Bishop of Owerri in

Nigeria but kept in close touch with

developments at Kimmage Grove, after he

left the club in ’34.

Whelan was succeeded by a past pupil of

Pres. Glasthule, Brendan Arigho, who more

or less took over the running of the Firsts.

According to Paddy Branagan, it was Arigho

who devised the style associated with the

club over the years – “The open style of

football that distinguishes the Club today

might be said to have been initiated by him”.

Arigho’s brother, Jack was one of the most

famous Irish wingers, winning 16

international caps during a long career with

Lansdowne but Brendan’s loyalty was with

the junior newcomers, St. Mary’s.

It was all the more appropriate then that

Brendan Arigho should figure in the first

major success of the resurgent club – in

1939-40 when they won the Metropolitan

Cup. He was but one of a number of famous

St. Mary’s names in that memorable success

and the team, brilliantly captained by

Dermot Smyth, that beat UCD in the final

reads like a club Hall of Fame – A. Norton, P.

Meehan, D. Smyth (Capt.), P. Branagan, T.

Bergin, A. Kelly, B. Arigho, J. Walker, L.

Canter, J. Canter, J. Quigley, C. Mangan, M.

Collison, T. Boyd, J. Meaney.

Not only had the Firsts taken the Met. Cup

but the Seconds won the Minor League,

beating Bective in the semi-final and Trinity

in the final. It had been a great season for

the club which had become by that stage

one of the strongest in the province. With a

burgeoning membership and success on the

field of play, St. Mary’s were in line to return

to senior ranks.

However, there were quite a few obstacles to

be overcome. There was some resistance

from the ‘newer’ senior clubs and although

St. Mary’s enjoyed the support of the longestablished

clubs like Trinity there were

those who believed that there were too

many ‘Old Boys’ clubs for the good of the

game.

It could have been an acrimonious situation

hich would have affected the genial

atmosphere of Leinster Rugby. But, not for

the last time, Fr. Ernest Farrell came to the

rescue. As Captain of St. Mary’s when they

last went senior in 1911, and as an

experienced interprovincial player he was

well-known to the Executive of the Branch.

He used his diplomatic skills and his powers

of persuasion to promote the club’s

application. In the circumstances, it was

hardly surprising that any resistance that

might have existed disappeared, and the

club returned to senior status again.

Minor League

Winners, 1939-40

Back:

C. Duffy, L. Ganter,

G. Norton, O. Byrne,

P Redmond,

L. Collison, J. Burgess.

Centre:

J. O’Connell, T. Boyce,

M. Scott (Capt.),

P. Byrne, J. Murphy,

J. Manahan.

Front:

T. Coveney, F. Scott.

100


From the Archives

EXTRACT FROM ‘AN RÉALT’, CHRISTMAS 1950

The gasping, grunting, groaning and

wheezing that could be heard issuing from

the front field of St. Mary’s College,

Rathmines in the latter weeks of September

which heralded in a new Rugby season for

the past pupils of that distinguished College

so far have paid good dividends. Up to date

all teams that turn out every week have had

a very successful record and as you know a

good start is half the battle. Here’s hoping

that the good work will continue. The 1st XV

started off in convincing fashion with a six

points to nil win over Blackrock College and

followed it up a week later with a nineteen

points to three win over Monkstown. Then to

Cork where their unbeaten record went

wallop to Sunday’s Well who also held an

unbeaten record. In the match at Cork we

started off in grand style and after scoring

our first try we looked set for an easy win

but it was not to be, for we gradually faded

out and were beaten 11-9. It must have been

the long journey to the Southern Capital that

took toil of our strength. Ahem!

So far, the First’s have played rugby of the

highest class with the main objective to get

the ball to the fast back line on every

possible occasion and this has been done in

fine style by a mobile hard-working pack.

Morris Corrigan is to be congratulated on the

line he has taken to play brighter and better

football. There were no newcomers to the

first team with the exception of Aiden

Lehane, Mr. to you present pupils. Aiden is

playing the type of rugby which made him

one of the outstanding centres in lrish

Schools football in the season 1943-44.

The 2nd XV are also lucky in the choice of

their captain Dick Whitty who has a shrewd

head on such young shoulders and is usually

101

right in the choice of players he makes for his

side which should do well in the league and

cup.

This fast young side was seen to advantage in

the first league match against Monkstown

whom they beat by fifteen points. Keep up

this style of play and you will be going places.

The captain of the thirds, Willie Scott, who

has been on the winning Moran Cup team for

the past two seasons, has a good side under

him and hopes to be well up the League

table if not win it when the season draws to a

close. So far the response to training has

been a huge success and if it continues St.

Mary’s will be dubbed with the name of

being one of the fittest sides in Leinster.

We members of the past thank you Father

Lahiffe for taking us in hand and training us

and only hope that the hard work you put

into your task will be amply rewarded.

At the Annual General Meeting the following

officers were elected:

Captain 1st XV: M. P. Corrigan.

Vice-Captain: N. G. Meagan.

Captain 2nd XV: R. J. Whitty.

Vice·Captain: J. F. Hughes.

Captain 3rd XV: W. D. Scott.

Vice-Captain: M. G. Gilsenan.

Captain 3rd A. XV: R. K. Maher.

Vice-Captain: K. Gilmer.

Captain 3rd B. XV: G. A. Duffy.

Vice-Captain: J. J. Hennigan.

Popular Hon. Treasurer, J. J. “Jimmy” Ganter

and Hon. Secretary, P. A. “Paddy” Branagan

were returned unopposed.

Noel Meagan

102

OBITUARY

Jim Murray, RIP

Jim Murray has just died. All who knew him

will mourn deeply, a member, who was a

deep blue St Mary’s College RFC man. This

blighted year, 2020, has cruelly taken some

of the club’s greatest men and now has

added to its list.

Jim has not been well for a number of years

now. His devoted wife. Rose, has

unwaveringly cared for him throughout his

illness. Jim never whimpered, as ever, he

bravely wore his engaging smile and his

floppy hat to the end, without loss of love or

hope.

In 1959, a gangly young man with a smiling

face and a willing heart, joined, what was to

be his club for life, straight from school at St

Mary’s College. He was the epitome of a

team man, never shirking and always

supporting others, on and off the field. That

affability he showed then, was to make him

an admirable and ever active ambassador for

the club he loved. He was of course a fine

player and played at several levels including

senior.

Being a successful insurance man, his job

took him to Galway for a number of years

and while there, he played for Galwegians

RFC, where he was universally popular and

admired. He kept friendships with his

teammates of that time, all his life and spoke

fondly of Joey Costello, Danno Heaslip and

Michael Casserly (A International) with

whom he shared the second row. In fact that

was an admirable trait in Jim, as he kept

lifelong friends from many walks of life, and

geographical locations. Up to his death he

was a close friend of former Marys’ player,

Pat Drennan who lives in Australia.

When Jim returned from Galway to Dublin,

he continued to play, taking up where he left

off. When he retired he became involved in

club affairs and was the first to volunteer for

any job, big or small. In time he got the

biggest job the club can offer, presidency, in

1987-88. He was an effective and

103

Jim Murray

exceptionally popular president. He greatly

cherished and enjoyed his time as president.

It was a truly happy presidency, as all

involved attest. He continued to be involved

in rugby matters after his presidency, and

was an active supporter up to this year. He

travelled to most of the away AIL matches.

He was a knowledgeable rugby man; and

most of all in his more mature years, an

outstanding ambassador for his Marys.

Never, was visiting alickadoo left standing

alone or without a beverage, when Jim was

around. He was thus, immensely popular

throughout the rugby world and rightly so.

It was great joy to Jim, that his son, Eamon,

played for St Mary’s and is still an active and

popular member.

Jim’s passing has added a dark cloud over

our club and pain to all who knew him.

We have lost a quintessential St Mary’s man.

D. O’Brien

St. Mary’s College

Rugby Football Club

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