BKT-URC Ulster Rugby Match Day Programme v Dragons

ULSTER
Offical Match Day Programme
v DRAGONS
Sat 2 Mar 2024, 7.35pm
Kingspan Stadium

In this Issue
5 Mascots
6 President’s Welcome
10 Dragons
Players to Watch
12 Last Time Out
16 Squad Stats
22 Referees’ Corner
25 Half-Time
Exhibition Games
26 Teams
28 Club Origins
32 Training Gallery
28
36
Danske Bank
Schools’ Cup
41 Guess Who
42
Player Interview:
David McCann
42
44 Spot The Difference
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48
52
56
58
61
65
Rugby For All
Ballyclare Hares
A New Chapter in a
Season of Change
Ulster Rugby Foundation
Gains Charity Status
From Grassroots To Greatness:
Sophie Barrett
Player Q&A:
Tom O’Toole
Meet Young Fundraising Hero,
Lewis Rennie
58
65
3

Mascots
Name: Charlie Harrison
Age: 11
From: Lisburn
I am excited to meet the Ulster
players and run out onto the new
pitch to experience the atmosphere
of Kingspan Stadium.
My favourite player is
Rob Baloucoune. I really like how
fast he is!
I play rugby at my school,
Forthill College.
Kingspan Welcome
Name: Niamh Shields
Age: 10
Location: Belfast
Welcome once again to
Kingspan Stadium, the home of Ulster
Rugby, for tonight’s URC fixture against
the Dragons.
The URC games are always highly
anticipated and this is no exception with
Ulster looking to move up the table and
push for play-off places.
Despite the challenges of recent weeks,
I am sure spirits will be high in the Ulster
camp and the whole team will be looking
to make sure we end the day with a win.
The atmosphere at Kingspan Stadium is
always fantastic and all the support from
fans is a huge motivation to the players, so
more of the same is needed for this game
to help spur on the team.
While you are out and about in the fan zone
before kick-off, please do have a go at the
Kingspan Try-Cycle challenge. There are
some fantastic prizes to be won, including
an away trip with the Ulster team.
Have a great night and get behind the
team for another memorable occasion at
Kingspan Stadium.
Siobhan O’Dywer
Global Head of Marketing
Kingspan
I’m a huge Ulster Rugby fan and have
been going to matches with my Dad
since I was 2. I love playing for Malone
Minis with my friends and enjoy scoring
tries a lot more than tackling.
My Favourite players are Nathan Doak
and Neve Jones.
When I’m older I’d love to travel the
world with the Ireland 7s team.
5

Tonight, Ulster welcome coach Dai Flanagan
and his Dragons to Kingspan Stadium
for Round 11 of the BKT United Rugby
Championship. Having slipped to eighth
place in the league, a win is vital as we seek
to ensure our qualification for next season’s
European Champions Cup and for the league
play-offs.
I am pleased to welcome Dragons
representatives Graeme Bradbury, Simon
Coghlan and all other fans who have travelled
from Wales for tonight’s fixture and hope they
have an enjoyable weekend in Belfast.
The match is the first in the post Dan McFarland
era. While I offer my best wishes to Dan Soper
and his fellow coaches who have prepared the
team this week, and to Richie Murphy, who will
take over for the remainder of the season, I
also record my thanks to Dan McFarland for his
dedication and commitment over the last six
years. I have no doubt he will reappear before
too long, and I wish him and his family all the
very best for the future.
World International Women’s Day is celebrated
next Friday. To mark this special day we will
be joined tonight by several guests who have
been involved directly with the Women and
Girls game as players and coaches. We have
also invited our female referees and our evergrowing
number of women who serve on the
Ulster Branch Committee. Additionally, I am
delighted that Lady Mary Peters will joining us
as she often does for this annual event.
We are currently in the middle of the Six Nations,
both at senior and Under 20 level. With a
combined six wins from six matches, both teams
are well placed. The seniors are looking to win
back-to-back grand slams, which would be a first
for any side in the Six Nations. Richie Murphy’s
U20s are seeking a third successive grand slam.
Best wishes to all involved in both camps.
The recently completed Celtic Challenge
included several Ulster players and it is good to
note that Sadhbh McGrath, Neve Jones, Fiona
Tuite, Brittany Hogan and Vicky Irwin have
all been included in the Ireland squad for the
upcoming Tik Tok Women’s Six Nations.
On the domestic front, there were two events
worthy of special mention. On 27th January,
Ballyclare RFC won the Energia All-Ireland
Junior Cup for the first time with a thumping
48 – 8 victory over Bective Rangers in Dundalk.
Thus, the trophy stays in Ulster for a third
successive season.
Then last Saturday, prior to the Ireland v
Scotland match at the Aviva, Greg Barrett, the
President of the I.R.F.U. presented a Volunteer
Recognition Award to Ballymoney stalwart
John Waide. This was a much-deserved award
to someone who has put so much time and
effort into club rugby – well done John.
To finish, having lost our last three games,
and with the recent upheaval, I know that
the players can’t wait to get out there to put
things right. If ever there was a time for our
brilliant supporters to STAND UP FOR THE
ULSTERMEN, it is tonight.
Denis Gardiner
President, IRFU Ulster Branch
#evYuMr
PROUD TITLE SPONSOR OF THE
BKT UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
7

9

DRAGONS
Dragons most recent victory against Ulster
came at Rodney Parade in March 2015 although
the two did draw 32-32 at the same venue in
December 2017.
Dragons have won just twice at Kingspan
Stadium: 21-28 in October 2004 and 14-16 in
September 2008.
James Benjamin
James Benjamin, Dragons
academy graduate, first impressed
on the Sevens stage and was
part of the Welsh squad for the
Commonwealth Games in 2018.
Benjamin operted at back row
and also at centre for his home
club, before making the transition
to hooker ahead of the 2021/2022
season. At the end of the 2022/23
season the hooker had made 75
appearances scoring six tries in
the process.
Both hookers, James Benjamin
and our old friend Brad Roberts,
are strong at set-pieces, with
Dragons ranking fifth in the
league for lineout success.
Players to Watch
Home Ground: Rodney Parade
Last Season: 15th
Coach: Dai Flanagan
Will Reed
Young fly-half, Will Reed, came through
the Academy system at the Dragons
and after impressing at age grade level
he became a part of the Wales U20
international set up in 2021 earning
two caps.
Described as a ‘superstar of the future’
the 22-year old, has now made 31
appearances and scored 101 points for
his club.
New Players:
Santiago Cordero (Bordeaux Begles)
Signings JJ Hanrahan for this (Dragons) season:
Dane Blacker Joe Joyce (Scarlets) (Bristol)
Sean Jansen (Leicester)
Dan Lydiate (Ospreys)
Seán O’Brien (Leinster)
Liam McNamara Corey Baldwin (Ireland (Scarlets) Sevens)
Andrew Smith Cai Evans (Ireland (Ospreys) Sevens)
Tadgh McElroy (Leinster)
Rodrigo Martínez (Argentina Pampas)
Michael McDonald (Ulster - loan)
NAME POSITION DOB
HEIGHT
(cm)
WEIGHT
(kg)
Rhodri Jones 23/12/1991 Prop (1) 188 125
Rodrigo Martinez 07/07/1998 Prop (1) 187 112
Aki Seiuli 22/12/1992 Prop (1) 180 115
Josh Reynolds 01/12/1998 Prop (1) 181 123
Elliot Dee 07/03/1994 Hooker 184 105
Bradley Roberts 04/01/1996 Hooker 177 108
James Benjamin 21/02/1994 Hooker 182 100
Brodie Coghlan 21/12/2000 Hooker 182 112
Leon Brown 26/10/1996 Prop (3) 189 128
Lloyd Fairbrother 13/11/1991 Prop (3) 175 117
Chris Coleman 31/08/1998 Prop (3) 189 121
Luke Yendle 27/06/2000 Prop (3) 185 120
Nathan Evans 03/01/2002 Prop (3) 178 120
Ben Carter 23/01/2001 Second Row 198 120
George Nott 21/01/1996 Second Row 199 117
Joe Davies 13/11/1995 Second Row 199 125
Sean Lonsdale 07/06/1997 Back Row 196 113
Matthew Screech 24/10/1992 Second Row 198 116
Aaron Wainwright 25/09/1997 Back Row 189 110
Harrison Keddie 10/07/1996 Back Row 190 108
George Young 10/10/2001 Back Row 188 104
Ryan Woodman 02/02/2004 Back Row 195 107
Taine Basham 02/11/1999 Back Row 183 100
Ollie Griffiths 23/03/1995 Back Row 186 109
Dan Lydiate 18/12/1987 Back Row 194 115
Dane Blacker 06/07/1998 Scrum Half 174 78
Gonzalo Bertranou 31/03/1993 Scrum Half 177 88
Rhodri Williams 05/05/1993 Scrum Half 176 87
Lewis Jones 24/11/1992 Scrum Half 176 83
Che Hope 10/01/2003 Scrum Half 175 79
Angus O'Brien 17/09/1994 Outside Half 180 98
Will Reed 03/11/2001 Outside Half 173 86
Jack Dixon 13/12/1994 Centre (12) 188 104
Aneurin Owen 19/10/2000 Centre (12) 180 94
Harri Ackerman 21/12/2004 Centre (12) 185 93
Sio Tomkinson 27/05/1996 Centre (13) 180 95
Max Clark 03/10/1995 Centre (13) 186 102
Steff Hughes 17/02/1994 Centre (13) 184 93
Joe Westwood 10/07/2003 Centre (13) 191 101
Corey Baldwin 13/10/1998 Back 3 182 99
Jordan Williams 20/09/1993 Back 3 173 86
Ashton Hewitt 20/11/1994 Back 3 178 88
Cai Evans 23/06/1999 Back 3 185 84
Rio Dyer 21/12/1999 Back 3 187 99
Jared Rosser 31/12/1997 Back 3 189 101
David Richards 30/07/1999 Back 3 181 94
Ewan Rosser 16/12/2000 Back 3 180 90
11

Last Time Out
Ulster left Wales with a bonus point after
a narrow defeat to Ospreys as they were
beaten 19-17 in Round 10 of the United
Rugby Championship.
Marcus Rea scored a try to help Ulster hold
the lead at the break, before the game
opened up in the second half. Tom Stewart
came off the bench to touch down, and
Jake Flannery looked to have won it with a
late penalty before Dan Edwards dropped
a goal at the death to decide the game.
The dramatic finish didn’t look on the cards
Sun 18 Feb
19 - 17
after a scrappy start to the afternoon which
saw opportunities limited for both sides.
The hosts had the first chance to register
points on the board, but Edwards pulled
his kick at goal beyond the posts with 6
minutes on the clock.
Ulster then went close with 21 minutes
gone thanks to some quick thinking off the
boot from Flannery with the fly-half using
a penalty to launch a cross-field kick over
to the left channel, but Jacob Stockdale
was unable to ground the ball.
After half an hour, Edwards had another
kick at goal and this time he was successful
to give Ospreys the lead. At this stage of
the game, Ulster captain Iain Henderson
was replaced by Cormac Izuchukwu, which
came shortly after Scott Wilson had come
on for Marty Moore.
The first try of the game came in the
34th minute after the Ulster pack showed
their power after a set-piece. It came
after Ospreys indiscipline led to a penalty,
allowing Flannery to kick deep into the 22.
From the resulting lineout the Ulster
forwards moved the ball forward several
times with quick drives for the line before
openside Marcus Rea burrowed over from
close range. From left of the sticks, Nathan
Doak slotted his kick to make it 7-3.
Edwards kicked another penalty for the
Welsh side to make it 7-6 at the break.
Ospreys 8 Morgan Morse was shown a
yellow card 8 minutes into the second half
for a deliberate knock-on and Flannery’s
kick into touch allowed the Ulster pack
to have another go from the lineout. Tom
Stewart, who had just come off the bench,
looked to have grounded the ball from the
maul but was judged to have been held up
over the line.
Edwards kicked Ospreys into a 9-7 lead in
the 56th minute before lock James Ratti
was shown a yellow card to temporarily
send them down to 13 men.
Ulster’s Flannery again bombed the penalty
deep into the 22, and this time there was
no stopping Tom Stewart from touching
down after the lineout maul for his 8th
score of the season, with Doak slotting the
extras from wide on the right.
It was then 14 versus 14 when Ulster sub
Luke Marshall was yellow carded for a high
tackle in the 62nd minute, and Ospreys
went on the attack.
Tom Stewart managed to steal the ball from
the breakdown close to his own goal line
and smacked an enormous clearing kick
into the vacant Ospreys half. It bobbled
all the way deep into the 22 before it was
gathered by a defender who was smashed
into touch by the chasing Dave Shanahan.
Ulster came close in the following phases
but Ospreys suddenly broke away after an
interception and the counter attack was
finished by Kieran Williams and converted
by Edwards to give them a 2-point lead
with 66 played.
Ulster moved ahead late in the game when
they claimed the lead in the 76th minute. It
came thanks to a monstrous penalty from
Flannery, who nudged the ball over with
the tee sitting just inside his own half to
make it 17-16 to the visitors.
It looked like it had won the game, only for
Edwards to score a drop goal just as the
clock ticked into the red to win the game
for Ospreys.
13

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15

Utility Back
20/08/1992
185cm
93kg
35
5
Will
Addison
Hooker
26/05/1993
180cm
103kg
116
-
John
Andrew
Wing
19/08/1997
193cm
94.5kg
65
4
Rob
Baloucoune
Fly Half
13/06/1994
183cm
87kg
106
7
Billy
Burns
Centre
24/02/2002
183cm
101kg
1
-
Ben
Carson
Scrum Half
01/05/1990
178cm
86kg
130
11
John
Cooney
Back Row
28/01/2002
184cm
99kg
3
-
Reuben
Crothers
Scrum Half
17/12/2001
185cm
85kg
58
-
Nathan
Doak
Back Row
03/11/1990
193cm
126kg
9
-
Dave
Ewers
Fly Half
07/06/1999
183cm
91.5kg
12
-
Jake
Flannery
Prop
13/06/1994
185cm
123kg
2
-
James
French
Lock
21/02/1992
199cm
118kg
149
81
Iain
Henderson
Hooker
27/04/1990
185cm
105kg
234
39
Rob
Herring
Centre
07/09/1998
188cm
97kg
89
3
James
Hume
ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Lock
28/01/2000
201cm
117kg
18
-
Cormac
Izuchukwu
Backrow
13/01/1996
196cm
105kg
42
-
Greg
Jones
Prop
10/02/1992
183cm
120kg
9
SA 83
Steven
Kitshoff
Full Back
20/08/1998
170cm
77kg
93
1
Mike
Lowry
Centre
03/03/1991
180cm
98.5kg
164
11
Luke
Marshall
Back Row
13/06/2000
193cm
109.5kg
35
-
David
McCann
Centre
06/08/1992
193cm
112kg
182
17
Stuart
McCloskey
Hooker
08/01/2002
183cm
107kg
-
-
James
McCormick
Wing
10/08/2000
188cm
88kg
54
-
Ethan
McIlroy
Scrum Half
20/03/2001
183cm
85kg
-
-
Conor
McKee
Prop
01/03/1991
178cm
122kg
93
10
Marty
Moore
Centre
08/08/1999
184cm
92kg
60
-
Stewart
Moore
Wing
09/06/2001
191cm
101.5kg
31
-
Ben
Moxham
Fullback
15/07/1999
181cm
89kg
1
-
Shea
O’Brien
Lock
10/09/1992
196cm
114kg
189
-
Alan
O’Connor
Prop
30/11/1995
183cm
117kg
109
1
Eric
O’Sullivan
SA
ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Prop
23/09/1998
184cm
122kg
97
13
Tom
O’Toole
Centre
03/04/2002
193cm
101kg
6
-
Jude
Postlethwaite
17

ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Back Row
08/09/1997
188cm
109kg
43
-
Marcus
Rea
Wing
24/08/2000
188cm
92kg
9
-
Aaron
Sexton
Back Row
21/09/1993
193cm
115kg
94
-
Matty
Rea
Dave
Shanahan
Scrum Half
20/06/1993
177cm
77kg
90
-
Back Row
04/11/1998
180cm
100kg
6
-
Sean
Reffell
Harry
Sheridan
Back Row
21/09/2001
195cm
116.5kg
17
-
Prop
06/01/1999
183cm
116.5kg
18
-
Callum
Reid
Tom
Stewart
Hooker
11/01/2001
183cm
102kg
36
2
Back Row
26/06/2004
189cm
104kg
-
Tom
Briggs
James
Humphreys
Fly Half
14/11/2001
185cm
81kg
-
Cameron
Doak
Prop
17/12/2003
189cm
126kg
-
Lock
28/01/2003
203cm
117kg
-
Charlie
Irvine
Ethan
Graham
Wing /Fullback
27/04/2004
181cm
78.5kg
-
Wing /Fullback
08/09/2004
184cm
93kg
-
Lucas
Kenny
Lock
16/03/2004
201cm
108kg
1
Joe
Hopes
Ben
McFarlane
Wing /Fullback
04/10/2004
174cm
76.5kg
-
ULSTER RUGBY ACADEMY
Jacob
Stockdale
Nick
Timoney
Kieran
Treadwell
Andrew
Warwick
Lorcan
McLoughlin
James
McNabney
George
Saunderson
Zac
Solomon
Wing
Back Row
Lock
Prop
Back Row
Back Row
Prop
Hooker
03/04/1996
01/08/1995
06/11/1995
12/03/1991
03/04/2002
28/02/2003
01/11/2001
17/06/2004
191cm
188cm
198cm
178cm
189cm
193cm
185cm
177cm
102kg
109kg
115kg
116.5kg
110kg
115kg
125kg
97kg
113
136
153
184
1
3
-
1
37
3
11
-
ULSTER RUGBY
ACADEMY
Based at Kingspan Stadium along
with the senior squad, the aim of
the Ulster Rugby Academy is to
develop rugby talent to reach their
potential and perform to URC,
European and international standards.
Prop
Jack
Boal
01/05/2003
Jacob
Boyd
Prop
10/07/2004
Josh
Stevens
Back Row
14/12/2004
Rory
Telfer
Wing /Fullback
29/08/2003
Henry
Walker
Hooker
01/01/2003
Scott
Wilson
Prop
06/08/2002
All players must have the ability to
play rugby for Ireland.
187cm
115kg
-
186cm
113kg
-
178cm
93kg
-
183cm
92kg
-
187cm
101kg
-
186cm
125kg
2
19

21

Referees’ Corner
Tonight, we welcome Gianluca Gnecchi
(FIR) and his team of officials to Kingspan
Stadium for the BKT United Rugby
Championship game against the Dragons.
As always, Ulster Rugby would like to
remind spectators to respect the decisions
of the match officials at all times.
the sport, a background in education, and
a commitment to recruiting, developing,
and retaining referees of all levels.
In this Referee Corner, we spotlight Richard
Kerr, the Referee Development Manager
for Ulster Rugby, looking at his role, the
important part he plays in developing
referees, and his journey with the whistle.
Richard’s journey is marked by a passion for
A Former Teacher with a Passion for Rugby
Richard’s rugby journey started back in
the mid 1980s when he played mini rugby
at Coleraine RFC and then in his early
years at Coleraine Inst. He then focused
on athletics and cross-country running
where he represented Northern Ireland
and Ulster and Irish Schools, before
returning to play a bit of social rugby after
University. Richard then took the wise
decision to follow in his Father Francis’
footsteps and took up refereeing in 2001.
Following a 20 year teaching career in
Cookstown High School, Richard had
the opportunity of transitioning from
teaching to his full-time role with Ulster
Rugby in 2018 which reflects his enduring
commitment to fostering growth and
development in individuals.
Richard served on the IRFU National
Referee Panel from 2003 until 2023,
after numerous All-Ireland League and
other top flight games across Ireland and
indeed beyond!
Richard is incredibly proud of his
tenure in the Green Jersey saying
“I have officiated in some great places,
from the Stade Mayol in Toulon, and a packed
Aviva Stadium, to my very first game at
Newry RFC and a recent U18 Girls’ game
at the Palace Grounds in Armagh. A pitch
is a pitch… white lines, green grass and 30
players. Every venue is the same to me.”
As well as being a current active USRFR
referee, one key aspect of Richard’s role
as Referee Development Manager is to
recruit new referees into the USRFR across
Ulster. New Referee Courses are a key
event in Richard’s calendar, where he has
the opportunity to inspire, develop, and
support new aspiring referees who share
a love for the game of Rugby Union.
New Referee Courses consist of several
workshops, ranging from an induction
day where the Trainee Referees cover
key aspects of law, communication, and
positioning, to on-pitch sessions on
refereeing the set piece, touch judging,
and more technical aspects of game
management, including the all-important
whistle tone! These sessions are highly
engaging, and throughout the process,
new cohorts build camaraderie and share
their learning from their games.
“I have fond memories of my new-referee
course and the important wisdom that
Richard shared with me and the group.
Richard was always approachable and on
hand to answer any on-field questions
that came up from my early games. He
really encouraged us all to reflect on our
games and select a couple of areas to
improve each time we ran out into the
middle” - Rob Rees, USRFR Referee.
Spotting the Talent of Tomorrow
at all levels to progress
through the ranks. This keeps
him busy supporting the USRFR
mentoring scheme, monthly meetings,
and the Development Group of Referees,
which includes some of the rising stars
in the Society going through the IRFU’s
National Panel Development Group system
(formerly known as IPAS) as they are being
evaluated to join the IRFU National Panel
of referees, all while remaining an active
referee himself.
Richard commented, “I really enjoy
working with referees and seeing them
progress to different levels of the game.
Whether it’s a new referee obtaining
their full society membership or the
likes of our High-Performance Referees
refereeing their first professional fixture.
There have been lots of proud moments
over the years.”
Richard continues, “Recruiting and
developing our referees is important,
but so too is retaining our referees. The
USRFR works hard to ensure that we
provide a supportive environment for all
our referees by actively promoting a sense
of community. We have three area hubs
that meet each month, a social activities
committee, and lots of engaging online
activities too, with social channels to
keep us all connecting and engaging
with each other. None of this would
be possible of course without the
total support and dedication on my
colleagues in the IRFU Referee Dept, Ulster
Rugby and perhaps most importantly,
the fantastic team of volunteers we
have within the Ulster Society of Rugby
Football Referees.”
Richard isn’t just about referees, though.
He continues to work tirelessly to engage
with players, Ulster Rugby Committees,
Clubs, and Schools to provide insight
into officiating and most importantly of
all, ensure that the values of rugby are
maintained at all levels.
A true servant of the game, we love.
There is so much opportunity that
Richard, along with a group of committed
volunteers, has put in place to support new
referees. Could you be the next USRFR new
referee? If you are interested in taking up
the whistle, or indeed just want to find out
more about refereeing, please reachusing
the details below.
Recruitment is only one aspect of Richard’s
role, of which there are many. Another
key aspect is developing existing referees
If interested in becoming a Referee, please contact:
Richard Kerr
Referee Development Manager
richard.kerr@irfu.ie | 07493 868 388
U.S.R.F.R
23

Half-Time
Exhibition Games
Nevin Spence Memorial Stand End
Cooke
Kit: Black & White
Newry
Kit: Blue & White
1 Matthew McCourt
2 Dalton McKinney
3 Martin Keenan
4 Daniel Barr
5 Austin O’Neil
6 Kitione Thompson
7 Caolan McNally
8 Conor Luft
9 Aidan Caughey
10 Josh Gordon
11 Noagh Viner
12 Heath Mellor
1 Patrick Killen
2 Anthony Magennis
3 Finn Laverty
4 Max Fitzpatrick
5 Oran Hughes
6 Tom Cranney
7 Shane Cunningham
8 Ruairi Martin
9 Oliver Fourie
10 Oscar White
11 Aleksander McGaffin
12 Daniel Turley
AbbeyAutoline Family Stand End
Carrick
Kit: Black & Red
Banbridge
Kit: Navy, Yellow, Maroon
1 Callum Smyth
2 Zach Morrison
3 Tom Ferris
4 Oliver Tester
5 Dylan Drysdale
6 Jacob Cevik
7 Georgi Cawood
8 Harry Chambers
9 Ryan Moore
10 Lee Gail
11 Oliver Finlay
12 Jensen Campbell
1 Olly McCarthy
2 Robbie Forsythe
3 Olly Jardine
4 Toby Mathers
5 Noah Teggart
6 Joel Ringland
7 Alfie Wallace
8 Jacob Hetherington
9 Alex Gillespie
10 Alfie Crawford
11 Samuel Nelson
12 Oliver Cairns
25

1
2
3
1
2
3
Steven Kitshoff
Tom Stewart
Tom O’Toole
Rodrigo Martinez
James Benjamin
Chris Coleman
4
5
4
5
Cormac Izuchukwu
Harry Sheridan
Sean Lonsdale
Matthew Screech
6
8
7
6
8
7
David McCann
Nick Timoney
Marcus Rea
Dan Lydiate
Taine Basham
Harry Taylor
9
John Cooney
Referee: Ian Kenny
Assistants: Frank Murphy,
Andrew Fogarty
TMO: Matteo Liperini
9
Dan Blacker
10
10
Billy Burns
Will Reed
11
11
Mike Lowry
12
Corey Baldwin
12
Jude Postlethwaite
Aneurin Owen
Replacements
16 John Andrew
13
Replacements
16 Brodie Coghlan
13
17 Andrew Warwick
18 Scott Wilson
James Hume
C
17 Aki Seiuli
18 Luke Yendle
Steff Hughes
C
19 Kieran Treadwell
19 Barny Langton-Cryer
20 Sean Reffell
21 Nathan Doak
15
14
20 George Nott
21 Gonzalo Bertranou
15
14
22 Luke Marshall
22 Harri Ackerman
23 Jacob Stockdale
Will Addison
Ethan McIlroy
23 Huw Anderson
Ewan Rosser
Joe Westwood
27

Scott Wilson - Dromore RFC
John Cooney
Gonzaga
College
Jake Flannery - Kilfeacle RFC
Ethan McIlroy
Ballynahinch RFC
Harry Sheridan - Civil Service NI
Cormac Izuchukwu – Tullamore RFC
Luke Marshall - Ballymena RFC
Reuben Crothers
Lisburn RFC
David Shanahan - Clontarf RFC
29

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processes by 2025
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Ambitious
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Areas
Energy,
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Leaving the planet
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31

TRAINING
in Pictures
33

ulster.rugby/matchtickets
35

After two very close semi-finals, RBAI and
Ballymena Academy came out victorious
to secure their spots in the Danske Bank
Schools’ Cup Final here in Kingspan
Stadium on Monday 18 March.
RBAI came out to defend their title as
winners of last year’s competition against
Wallace High School here at the stadium on
Tuesday 27 February. They stole the show
with an impressive attacking performance
in the first half and stand-out performance
from full-back Joshua GIbson, scoring a
hat-trick of tries. The final score resulted
in 33-20 to the current cup holders and
they will go on to see if they can hold on
for a consecutive year.
Ballymena and
RBAI to go
head to head in
Ballymena battled it out with Sullivan here
on Wednesday 28 February in very wet
conditions. Ballymena haven’t lifted the cup
since 2010 and so had that perseverance to
push on to the final. In what was a thrilling
match between the two sides, Ballymena
were aggressive in both aspects of the game
and their first half attacking performance,
combined with excellent defensive work in
the second half, made it a convincing win,
despite Sullivan’s best efforts, resulting in
a final score of 25-14.
Tickets are now on sale for the final
at ulster.rugby/buytickets.
Schools’ Cup Final
WATCH STREAMED
COVERAGE
FINAL
RBAI v Ballymena Academy
Mon 18 Mar, 3pm | Kingspan Stadium
MEDALLION
Shield
RBAI v
Sullivan Upper
Tue 5 Mar, 2.30pm
Kingspan Stadium
Subsidiary
Shield
Campbell College v
Royal School Armagh
Wed 13 Mar, 2.30pm
Queen’s Sport, Upper Malone
37

39

?
?
?
Guess Who?
?
?
?
?
?
?
Can you name the 4 players?
Answers: (Top to bottom) James Hume, Andrew Warwick, David McCann, Ethan McIlroy
41

DAVID McCANN
From Club T
Origins Interview
So Aahead Kieran, of 150 our caps Origin for Round Ulster, this how weekend, does that tell make us you a bit feel? about
It your fills junior me with club pride. journey? When I came here I didn’t know how long I
would be here, I left home, moved to a different country, had ups
I started playing mini rugby at Cooke RFC at Shaw’s Bridge,
and downs but it’s gone pretty well! To get to 150 is massive for
I think I must have been six or seven until I went to school
me, my family and my wife.
at RBAI and would go on to play with Instonians RFC. When
I got to school obviously my main focus was on schools’
And rugby what which better helped opponent me to to evolve do it and against play than a number Connacht? of
Yes! positions. Having I moved an Interpro from around playing Christmas centre into are the the back games
you row want which to helped be involved me feel in. very Especially rounded after and a massive I kicked
game on from against there. Racing 92, we did things in that game
that we want to take forward and improve on.
What are your memories about playing at
Cooke RFC?
Tgame I remember and hopefully we went we on can a rugby come tour out on to top.
England, I must have been in P7 and played
How in festival, important we lost are in the a final fans so in matches it was heartbreaking
as a kid but I am still friends with
like
this?
It
the
makes
people
a massive
I played
difference
with all those
in line-out
years ago.
calls
as It’s you special can’t when hear you them! think It’s of those unbelievable, days as I
remember it was all about at the having weekend, fun John and Cooney I’m still chased pals
a with conversion them now. after a try and they missed, it was
like the try was forgotten about! After the effort
he put in, it gives you a lot of energy. For me,
especially That experience in those of defensive playing sets, at a club sometimes like
when Cooke you – how are in important the depths are of clubs it, the to fans the can
give professional you a big journey? boost of energy.
I think when you start your minis it shapes
the way you see rugby. One of my best
friend’s dad was a coach at Cooke and
at the time I’d probably have played more
football and he encouraged me to come along
and play with my friends.
My memories of rugby are
all positive, I kept playing,
enjoying it and formed a
positive mindset
about rugby.
Cooke
RFC
Onto Dragons - we are back at home,
how are you feeling ahead of it?
There has been a shift in the organisation recently and that’s
something that we have addressed as a squad, there is no
revolutionary change to the way we prepare for this week
but we know that we have to respond. Dragons are
dangerous if you let them get going, so we have to
try to dominate and put our game out there.
A win could push us higher up the table,
how excited are the players for the rest
of the season?
We know that as long as you are in the top
8 of the URC, you’ll be playing knock-out
rugby. We have shown that we can compete
and we want to do better than last year.
How has training been this week?
It’s been good, we all know we have
a responsibility to get back on track.
Everyone appreciates Dan McFarland’s
contribution over the years but as players
we have responsibility to move things
forward for the fans, the organisation, and
the history of the club.
How important are the fans this weekend?
We have been on the road the past few games
and being back at home, putting in a good
performance at home, getting them behind us is
so important. The players have a responsibility to
put in a good performance for the fans at
Kingspan Stadium.
Back Row
13/06/2000
193cm
109.5kg
35
43

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Answers: Steven Kitshoff in background, Nick Timoney’s hair, also his knee strapping,
referee’s jersey, Cian Healy’s (Leinster) wrist strap.
See Wah, OFXpert since 2018
45

Personalised team
experience
Exclusive offers
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Premium opinion
articles & analysis
Match highlights &
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47

Rugby for All:
Ballyclare RFC's
Clare Hares Inspire
Inclusivity
The Clare Hares, a disability rugby team
established at Ballyclare RFC show that
rugby really is for all. This grassroots club
has gone the extra mile to be inclusive in
their community.
The Clare Hares are not your typical rugby
team. They are a group of individuals with
learning disabilities who come together
to enjoy the game in a supportive and
inclusive environment. Organised by
dedicated club members Moore Kennedy
and Clifford Gilmore, the Clare Hares offer
a platform for individuals with learning
disabilities to engage in tag rugby, a noncontact
form of rugby.
"Clare Hares had a very successful start
to their time at The Cloughan, home of
Ballyclare Rugby Club," says Kennedy,
highlighting the positive reception the
team has received within the club and the
broader community. They are now coached
by Gary Dorman, Kris James, Tommy Scott
and Davy Kernoghan and have four or five
helpers who are doing Duke of Edinburgh.
The essence of disability tag rugby lies in its
inclusivity. It welcomes men, women, and
children of all ages and abilities, ensuring
that everyone has the opportunity to
participate in the sport they love. The Clare
Hares provide a safe and supportive space
for individuals to engage in rugby regardless
of their background or ability level.
For Sarah Gilmore, a member of the Clare
Hares, rugby isn't just a sport – it's a source
of joy and camaraderie.
"I love seeing my friends, I
have made lots of friends.
Everyone on the team is so
special in their own way,"
says Gilmore, reflecting on her experience
in the team.
Ballyclare Rugby Club prides itself on its
commitment to community engagement
and inclusivity. As a registered
Community Amateur Sports Club, the
club is dedicated to promoting ‘rugby
for all’ in the local area.
For Sarah and her teammates, Ballyclare
Rugby Club is more than just a sports
venue – it's a second home. "Ballyclare
Rugby Club is my most favourite place in
the whole wide world," shares Sarah. "It
makes me feel free, and I really enjoy it. It
is a really nice feeling."
Through the Clare Hares, Ballyclare RFC
is championing the values of inclusivity,
friendship, and the sheer joy of playing
rugby. The goal of the Ulster Rugby
Foundation is to support teams such as
this to ensure people of all ages, all abilities
can enjoy rugby.
ulster.rugby/matchtickets
49

Enjoy the
big match
in style
ulster.rugby/hospitality
51

A NEW
CHAPTER IN
A SEASON
OF CHANGE
Guest Article: Rod Nawn
at the top is a route to better oval ball
outcomes.
Supporters and the players in whom he
trusted should thank Dan McFarland for his
commitment and the many good things he
leaves behind. He’s a high-class coach and
a good man, and we should all wish him
the success he deserves elsewhere.
Now, with the IRFU, CEO Jonny Petrie and
senior management figures such as Bryn
Cunningham will think long and hard in
the search to find a new Head Coach who
can assemble a squad which will, at last,
bring trophies to Belfast. It may well be
that whoever takes charge will want to give
younger players native to the Province their
heads – if they are good enough.
How many will be available to Head Coach
Dai Flanagan depends on Wales’s Warren
Gatland, but winger Rio Dyer, hooker Elliot
Dee, breakaway forwards Aaron Wainwright
and Taine Basham are just some who would
bring some quality to the Dragons line-up.
And despite its struggles, players of
the proven class of flanker Dan Lydiate
and centre and skipper Steff Hughes
are performers who could cause Ulster
problems, especially at the breakdown and
on the counter.
Hooker Dee has only played three times
for his club this season and his spot has
been occupied frequently by one Bradley
Roberts, once of Ulster by way of Rainey
Old Boys, and now a fully-fledged Welsh
international!
So, in a blink of an eye a Head Coach is
gone, an interim one to arrive soon, but a
rugby season rolls relentlessly on.
This first Saturday evening in March, the
Dragons arrive at Kingspan Stadium, and
Dan Soper will be in charge of Ulster until
Richie Murphy completes his duties with
Ireland Under 20s.
A home win, and a signal of confidence
and momentum against the Welsh visitors,
would lift spirits all round, if briefly, as a
reset in the club begins on several fronts.
increasing scrutiny.
A cerebral man, he will have known the
consequences of successive years of Ulster
not achieving tangible rewards in the URC
and flattering too often to deceive in Europe.
He was a first-rate coach who brought
stability to the Province in 2018 when,
famously, Brian O’Driscoll labelled the
under-achieving Ulster ‘a basket case.’ He
did invest in younger players and some owe
much to his tutelage, and without dispute
he was hardworking and ambitious.
The Dragons have been at the centre of the
continuing crisis of club rugby in Wales,
Rodney Parade once such a hotbed of the
game in a rugby-mad country. Under many
guises it has tried to make an impact in
the professional era but there are so many
contradictory, conflicting undercurrents
in the Principality that it has always
appeared the poor relation, literally. Percy
Montgomery, Ross Moriarty and Jamie
Roberts are just a few of the world-class
players who have pulled on the Dragons
jersey, yet – like Ulster – success in terms of
titles and trophies has been absent for the
last two decades.
Skipper Iain Henderson won’t be available
to bring his special intelligence to the team,
but with Ireland taking a Six Nations break,
perhaps Jacob Stockdale, Tom Stewart,
Nick Timoney and Tom O’Toole may be
released by Andy Farrell to bolster the
selection pool for Soper.
With recent defeats in Europe and a
frustrating loss at the Ospreys a fortnight
ago it is difficult for all in the Ulster fold
to square those performances and results
with the uplifting displays and wins against
Racing 92 and in Dublin over mighty Leinster
on New Year’s Day.
Dan McFarland’s reign was ended quite
suddenly and a succession plan announced
without taking a breath. Professional sport
is a ruthless business, results inevitably
the gauge, and for McFarland his team’s
protracted inconsistency had put him under
Though a mid-season dismissal in rugby is
not unprecedented, it is unusual so clearly
his position must have been in jeopardy
for some time. Supporters will recall the
trough into which the team fell last year,
the subsequent revival but ultimately falling
just short.
Sadly, it mirrored the disappointment of
the previous year when last-gasp defeat
in the URC semi-final in South Africa saw
league title hopes collapse, while European
success – so often the beacon which roused
the fans and the players – withered on the
cusp of an anticipated exciting climax to
the season.
President Truman said ‘the buck stops here’
of his time in the Oval office, and, if it may
not be obviously always fair, it is a sporting
fact that when success proves persistently
elusive the judgement will be that a change
Every team, in whatever sport, seeks an
identity, whether that be in playing style
or in the composition of its personnel, and
an Ulster side with a broad core of gifted
homegrown talent would please those
who have stayed the course and filled the
Kingspan Stadium seats and terraces.
But this evening debates over recent events
will happily be sidelined for the moment,
and the players will be glad to get out on
the home surface and play rugby!
The visiting Dragons have found the URC
campaign testing once again, and, with the
Sharks, are anchored to the bottom of the
table. But their two wins have been over
the Scarlets and the high-flying Ospreys,
and the playing pool is littered with Welsh
internationals.
53

Flanagan is operating at a club reliant on
several experienced players often required
by Wales, and he has tried to bring through
youngsters to complement the likes of Dee,
Hughes and Lydiate. He has seen some
bright moments, and the Head Coach has
drawn on a lifetime in the game to show
patience and determination to guide the
Dragons through the current tumult in
Wales’s club game.
And John Cooney, Nathan Doak, David
McCann, Steven Kitshoff and many others
have forged, or are forging, more than
decent careers. Yet, despite such talents,
silverware hasn’t come to Ravenhill since
Mark McCall’s 2006 Celtic League winners.
Different, ever-changing times of course,
but at Ulster Rugby HQ that timeline is a
constant frustration.
Ulster’s resources are more complete, its
facilities now thoroughly professional on
the pitch, in the dressing room and in the
support teams. Rob Herring, Henderson,
Stockdale, Stewart, Timoney, James Hume,
Robert Baloucoune, Michael Lowry, Billy
Burns, Stuart McCloskey, Will Addison and
Kieran Treadwell have been involved with
the most successful Ireland team ever.
Could you support
What better fillip to everyone involved in
the club, and those who loyally support
it, than an instant pick-me-up in the form
of an emphatic win this evening. Add in a
few tries and a glance at the league table
over this weekend might see Ulster hoisted
from mid-table and back into more a more
competitive position.
It’s a road ahead which could be thrilling,
and if there are hurdles to be cleared in the
months and years ahead, a victory over the
Dragons would offer real sunlight into the
gloom of the last fortnight.
Let’s hear it for the Ulstermen.
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55

Ulster Rugby Foundation Gains Charity Status
With a vision to inspire lifelong
participation in rugby, the Ulster
Rugby Foundation has secured official
charitable status.
The Ulster Rugby Foundation will raise vital
funds needed to ensure that rugby is a
sport open to all ages and abilities across
the province. As a registered charity, the
Foundation is committed to using the power
of sport, and unique values of rugby, to have
a positive impact on participants’ lives and
our local community.
Set to support grassroots programmes
throughout Ulster that use rugby as a
tool to enhance physical and mental
health, inclusivity and education, the initial
focus of the charity will be on providing
more opportunities for Women and Girls,
increasing access through Disability rugby,
and developing young people through local
clubs and schools.
Of the announcement, Gerard McCurdy,
Chief Commissioner of the Charity
Commission for Northern Ireland, said:
“I would like to congratulate the Ulster
Rugby Foundation on their achievement of
charitable status, which marks an important
milestone in their development.
“The Foundation is now listed on the
Northern Ireland register of charities, a vital
online public resource where anyone can,
at the click of a button, look up a registered
charity and find out what they do, who their
trustees are and how their work is benefitting
the public.”
Chair of the Ulster Rugby Foundation Board,
Martin Pitt, also welcomed the news:
“We believe that rugby has the power
to have a lasting positive impact for our
local community.
“The funds raised will go directly towards
supporting amateur game programmes
that help participants to develop a sense
of teamwork and resilience skills, as
well as improving mental and physical
health, and improving educational and
employment opportunities.
“The Ulster Rugby Foundation is set
to bring about lasting change in the
province through its charitable work, and
we’re all looking forward to continuing
to progress that.”
David Johnston, Funding Manager at Ulster
Rugby, added:
“The club is delighted to support the
Foundation through a range of fundraising
activity at our upcoming games, including at
Saturday’s BKT United Rugby Championship
game versus the Dragons, which is focussed
on celebrating the work of the domestic
game through the league’s Origins Round.
“Fans will be able show their support by
purchasing a raffle ticket for the chance
to win some great prizes, meeting with
the player ambassadors in the fan zone,
and hearing the stories of those who
are set to directly benefit through our
grassroots sport.”
For more information visit
ulster.rugby/foundation
57

Sophie
Barrett
Sophie Barrett began her rugby career at
Enniskillen RFC when she was a child, and
from there has achieved being part of our
Senior Women’s team and most recently
has won the Celtic Challenge 23/24 with
her Wolfhounds teammates. We chatted
to her about her local club and her origins.
What does your club mean to you?
Enniskillen is where I started my whole
rugby journey. I feel like it has been a
massive part of my life. I went through
minis, to youth, to senior and the set up
Enniskillen have really brings players on
- the coaches there are exceptional. The
likes of Jimmy Moore has been integral
to my rugby career, he has been with me
since I was 14 and taught me all the basic
skills and all the coaches there have really
put rugby at the centre of my life.
How has being part of a club helped you
on your rugby journey?
Playing in a club, you get to play games,
travel around the country, it really brings
you on as a person. It has really helped me
develop my skills, and I think having that
exposure to a lot of game time has really
helped me reach a higher level. It has also
given me friends for life.
Ireland such as Claire Boles, Catherine
Dane and India Daley. They’ve all got so
far and it’s such an amazing inspiration to
see players from my club that have gone
so far. It shows me I can do that too.
What is your favourite club memory?
Winning the Ulster Cup was a big thing
for me. We won U15, and we won U18 last
year and both those wins are probably my
favourite memories.
Who was pivotal in your rugby journey at
your club?
There’s actually a few. As I said, Jimmy
Moore has been with me throughout my
whole rugby journey. Rodney Balfour in
the senior ladies has been an amazing
coach as well, and he thinks a lot of the
girls and gets on with everyone. But I
would say all the coaches throughout my
time in Enniskillen have got me to where I
am today.
How vital would you say grassroots clubs
are to the game?
Playing at a club from a young age, it means
a lot to you. Enniskillen is now so important
to me. There has been so many girls that
have played for Enniskillen that have gone
on to play for Ulster, and even further to
59

PROUD TO BE OFFICIAL WATER
& HYDRATION PARTNER OF
ULSTER RUGBY
Q&A
Tom O’Toole
Favourite Ulster player of all time?
Ian Madigan
Favourite rest / recovery day activity?
Sea swim, sauna and walking Roxie my
French Bulldog
Any habits or rituals before a game?
Cleaning and doing jobs around the
house. Always finish with a cold shower
before heading to them game.
Least favourite drill at training?
The Bronco test
Favourite game day meal?
Spaghetti bolognaise
What’s your biggest pet hate?
When people don’t acknowledge when
you hold the door for them
One thing you can’t live without?
My friends and family
Most used app on your phone?
YouTube
If you were stuck on a desert island
with a teammate, who would you pick
and why?
James Hume because I would be with my
best mate and we would still have a laugh.
Teammate who is most likely to become
a coach?
Stuart McCloskey because he is a bit of a
rugby nause
Apart from rugby, what other sports do
you like?
MMA, American football, darts
and basketball
Favourite TV show?
Only fools and horses
61

2023/24 2023/24 FIXTURES FIXTURES
2023/24 FIXTURES
From stadium
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gain a competitive advantage
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A Zebre Parma Sat 21 Oct W 36-40 URC
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H Munster Fri 10 Nov W 21-14 URC
to boardroom,
We help business leaders
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the same way.
H Emirates Lions Fri 17 Nov W 24-17 URC
A Glasgow Sat 25 Nov L 33-20 URC
H Edinburgh Sat 2 Dec L 24-27 URC
A Bath Rugby Sat 9 Dec L 37-14 ICC
H Racing 92 Sat 16 Dec W 31-15 ICC
H Connacht Fri 22 Dec W 20-19 URC
A Leinster Mon 1 Jan W 21-22 URC
H Toulouse Sat 13 Jan L 24-48 ICC
data is game-changing.
A Harlequins Sat 20 Jan L 47-19 ICC
A Ospreys Sun 18 Feb L 19-17 URC
H Dragons Sat 2 Mar 7.35pm URC
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A DHL Stormers Sat 30 Mar 5.15pm URC
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H Cardiff Fri 19 Apr 7.35pm URC
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A Scarlets Sat 11 May 3.05pm URC
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H Leinster Sat 18 May 7.35pm URC
A Munster Sat 1 Jun 5.15pm URC
63

Meet Young
Fundraising Hero,
Lewis Rennie
In the wake of tragedy, rugby became a
source of solace for Graham and Lewis
Rennie after losing their son and brother,
Callum, to cancer. Graham found purpose
coaching the Minis at Larne Rugby Club,
while Lewis played for the team. Rugby
provided them with moments of respite
from grief, offering a shared passion and
valuable time together.
Inspired by Callum’s memory, Lewis
fundraised for The Big C Foundation NI,
supporting children with cancer. Their
efforts gained momentum, raising over
£16,000 and achieving charity status.
Grateful for community support, the
Rennies continue their mission, providing
essential resources and support to children
undergoing treatment.
In recognition of their dedication, Bank of
Ireland arranged a special day at Kingspan
Stadium, where Lewis met his local hero,
Ulster player Ben Moxham. Despite their loss,
Graham and Lewis find joy in family time and
outdoor adventures, with rugby serving as a
constant source of strength. Lewis is currently
undertaking a new fundraising challenge, the
7 Peak Challenge, aiming to climb Ben Nevis
in the summer.
In the spirit of the Origins Round, the URC
along with BKT have kindly let Lewis present
the Player of the Match medal this evening.
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The Food Village will be in operation,
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Cool FM Crew will provide the soundtrack
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All five public bars will also be in operation,
with live entertainment in the Clubhouse Bar.
Kukri Store
The Kukri Store will be open from gates
open, until 30 minutes after full-time.
Audio
Audio descriptive match commentary to
enhance the match experience for people
affected by sight or hearing loss will be
available.
Earpieces can be collected from the admin
building reception prior to the game, or
you can book your equipment by calling
on (028) 9049 3222.
Kingspan Stadium is now fully cashless,
with all bars and catering outlets
operating via card payments only.
Domestic Sponsors
Official Partners
Live music will be available pre & post-match in the Clubhouse Bar
Respect
Policy
Incident hotline
07790
200 200
We are
passionate in
our support
We are silent
during kicks
at goal
We respect the
match officials’
decisions
We drink
responsibly
We do not tolerate
abusive or discriminatory
language
We respect opposition
players, management
& supporters
We are mindful
of our language
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