St Mary's College RFC Yearbook 2020-21

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