BKT-URC_Match-Programme-Ulster-v-Glasgow

Official Match Day Programme
ULSTER
v GLASGOW
WARRIORS
Sat 21 Sep 2024, 7.45pm
Kingspan Stadium

CONTENTS
04
Fans’ Forum
Event
04
05 Mascots
08 President’s
Welcome
13 Contract
News
14
Last Weekend’s
Pre-season
Friendly
14
#evYuMr
18
22 Referees
18
Danske Bank
Ulster Schools’
Competitions
Corner
25
2024/25
31 Half-time
34 Teams
Squad
Exhibition Games
38
Glasgow Warriors
Players to Watch
PROUD TITLE SPONSOR OF THE
BKT UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
46
40 Training
Gallery
46
Iain Henderson
Interview
57 WATCH:
Inside Pre-season
3

MASCOTS
Name: Leon Taggart
Age: 11
From: Ballymoney
I am a massive Ulster Rugby fan, and
cannot wait until Saturday to meet all
of the players and run out onto the
pitch with them.
Mike Lowry is my favourite. He is fearless
and always brings great energy!
FANS’ FORUM
Ulster Rugby held an exclusive Fans’
Forum event for Season Ticket holders
on Thursday evening to look ahead to the
2024/25 season with some of our new
players and coaches.
Hosted by Cool FM’s Pete Snodden,
the presenter chatted to a panel which
included Head Coach, Richie Murphy,
Assistant Coach, Jimmy Duffy and two
of Ulster’s new summer signings, Werner
Kok and Aidan Morgan.
Name: Joshua Fisher
Age: 10
From: Larne
I love watching sports and have always
wanted to be a mascot.
I used to play for Larne Minis.
My favourite player is Ben Moxham, as
he is also from Larne.
5

President’s
Welcome
Hi everyone, and a warm welcome back to
Kingspan Stadium as we kick off our 2024/25
season against the reigning champions, Glasgow
Warriors in Round 1 of the BKT United Rugby
Championship.
It’s exciting to get stuck into competitive rugby
once again, after having two useful workouts
against Benetton and Exeter Chiefs in our preseason
friendlies.
With so many young players getting opportunities
in those games, you can’t help but feel there is
an exciting crop of talent who are banging on
the door to get gametime over the coming year.
In Richie Murphy, we have a Head Coach with a
passion for developing young players, and I think
most Ulster supporters will join me in supporting
that vision for our team going forward.
In other news, we have had a great week in
terms of seeing players put pen to paper on new
contract extensions. Ireland international, Stuart
McCloskey, has put to bed any talk of an exit with
his new two-year-extension. Big Stu is one of our
Ulster favourites and will no doubt continue to
make a big impact for us.
Harry Sheridan joined Stuart in committing his
future to the province, with the powerful forward
signing an extension keeping him in a white jersey
until 2027.
Harry was also one of six Ulstermen to receive a
call-up to the upcoming Emerging Ireland tour in
October. We wish Harry, Jude Postlethwaite, Scott
Wilson, Jack Murphy, Cormac Izuchukwu and Zac
Ward all the very best for the camp and hope that
they come back to Ulster healthy and fit.
Another well done goes to prop, Corrie Barrett,
who has signed a contract until the end of the
season after impressing on trial.
Away from the Senior Men’s game, we had the
honour of hosting the international clash between
Ireland Women and Australia last weekend to
mark 150 years of the IRFU.
It was a great occasion in Belfast, and it was
superb to see Ireland win in a six try victory.
A special mention to Ulster women, Brittany
Hogan and Fiona Tuite, who were members of
the team last weekend.
Earlier this week, we visited Parliament Buildings
at Stormont to launch our Ulster Rugby
Foundation charity, and it was a great event, as
we heard from a few speakers who spoke about
how playing rugby has changed their lives.
We’ll be doing more fundraising and awareness
events for the charity across the season, with the
goal of improving rugby at grassroots / amateur
level – in particular the women and girls game,
youth and disability game.
While attention turns towards the professional
season commencing, we want to wish all of our
Ulster clubs across the province all the best as
the AIL season kicks off this weekend.
I hope everybody has a great weekend and are as
excited as I am to get our season up and running.
Let’s roar the boys to an opening victory and
STAND UP FOR THE ULSTER MEN!
Laurence Rocke
President, IRFU Ulster Branch
7

Ulster Rugby to Mark Centenary of Home
Ground Throughout the 2024/25 Season
Ahead of facing Glasgow Warriors in front
of a home crowd this Saturday, Ulster Rugby
has announced plans to celebrate 100 years
of rugby at Ravenhill.
Since the inaugural game at the home
of rugby in Ulster in 1924, which saw the
province claim a 14-6 victory over Leinster,
Ravenhill has played host to many significant
moments in the club’s history.
Now known as Kingspan Stadium, following
renovations completed in 2014, Ravenhill
has witnessed generations of fans, players,
teams and countries mark countless special
moments at the ground.
Plans to mark the occasion, which will be
announced throughout the season, will
include the launch of a network for past
players, exclusive Season Ticket holder
events, and a special Bank of Ireland Mid-
Season Challenge against Queensland Reds
next February.
The Senior Men’s side will be looking to
follow in the footsteps forty years later of the
Ulster team that secured a major home scalp
in 1984. The province famously defeated an
all-conquering Wallabies squad, and will be
looking to do the same when the Australian
Super Rugby side come to town.
The Ulster men will also be hoping to put in
a performance similar to the Ireland Women
last weekend which saw them seal a 36-10
win over the Wallaroos in front of a Kingspan
Stadium crowd - building on the recordbreaking
crowd in Belfast that saw Ireland
secure World Cup qualification back in April
when they beat Scotland.
With recent investment in the stadium,
including a state-of-the-art 3G pitch, the
season ahead promises to hold plenty of
highs for supporters to enjoy across the
Men’s, Women’s and grassroots game.
On the upcoming celebrations, Ulster
Rugby CEO, Hugh McCaughey, said:
“We know that our home ground is a place
of special memories for many players,
coaches and supporters alike, and we’re
looking forward to coming together to
mark the centenary.
“I would encourage everyone to get
involved in our ‘Ravenhill Rewind’ series
that will collect together some of those
stories, and I look forward to sharing my
own personal memories, from running out
on the pitch nearly fifty years ago to being
involved in the club today.
“It’s going to be a special season ahead as
we honour this significant anniversary.”
Centenary celebrations for the home of
Ulster Rugby will be announced across the
club’s website and social channels across
the coming season.
In support of the Ulster Rugby Foundation, the hugely popular match night
raffles are back, with a range of unique prizes to be won throughout the
course of the season. Now in its first full year, thanks to the generous support
from fans last season, the Foundation has already started to distribute funds
to support community and schools outreach programmes throughout the
Province. Our aim is to ensure that more people, more communities, more
schools and more individuals reap the health, wellbeing and community
benefits of taking part in grassroots rugby – with our priority areas for support
being Women and Girls’, Youth and Disability Rugby.
At the Ulster v Glasgow match, we have a superb prize package:
WIN
Raffle tickets cost £5 and can be purchased from sellers throughout
the stadium.
All proceeds from the raffle will go directly to the Ulster Rugby Foundation
to support the grassroots community programmes across the Province.
For more information about the people that are benefitting from your support,
visit the link below.
ulster.rugby/foundation
A Signed Ulster Rugby Jersey +
2x Grandstand Tickets for
Ulster v Bordeaux
9

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11

CONTRACT NEWS
STUART
McCLOSKEY
Stuart McCloskey has signed a new twoyear
contract extension, committing his
future with his province until at least 2027.
McCloskey has been a stalwart for Ulster
Rugby, and is in-line to hit his 200th
appearance in the white jersey over the
coming season.
DAVID
McCANN
David McCann has signed a new one-year
extension that secures him in an Ulster jersey
until at least 2026.
In the URC alone last season, McCann made
a habit of making big turnovers with a total
of thirteen and made 158 tackles, showing
the volume of his defensive work.
HARRY
SHERIDAN
Harry Sheridan has committed his
future to the province, signing a new twoyear-deal.
Named the province’s Young Men’s Player
of the Year for the 2023/24 season,
Sheridan has made a significant impact in
the team.
CORRIE
BARRETT
Corrie Barrett has signed a deal with the
province until the end of the season.
Having joined up with the Senior Men’s
squad for pre-season, Barrett has made
appearances in the province’s pre-season
friendlies against Benetton and Exeter Chiefs.
13

Ulster made a number of important exits
when under pressure, and Marcus Rea
produced a brilliant turnover just before the
break to ease off some of the home side
pressure.
At half-time, the contest was a two point
game at 7-5 to Exeter.
Half-Time: EXE 7 - 5 ULS
After a series of tap
and go penalties, Ulster remained
patient and worked the ball out wide to
replacement winger, Rory Telfer, who did
well to step inside his defender and finish
under pressure. Nathan Doak’s kick from
wide right went wide of the posts.
Richie Murphy’s side then took a welldeserved
lead after feeling some good
momentum from the Telfer try.
Last Weekend’s Friendly
Richie Murphy’s Ulstermen concluded their
pre-season preparations with a well-fought
match against Exeter Chiefs at Sandy Park
last Saturday evening.
After an early setback, Ulster rallied and
showed a gritty performance, despite going
into the break down by two points.
After the interval, Ulster had managed to
lead in the second period after two tries tries
from Rory Telfer and John Andrew, before
a late Exeter surge which saw three tries in
the last fifteen minutes, saw them race clear
of the contest.
driving towards the line. Exeter were awarded
a pen just shy of the line and snatched an early
lead after their skipper, Jacques Vermeulen,
managed to crash over under the posts after
a quick tap and go. Hodge converted the
score in front of the posts.
Ulster responded minutes later, with winger
Aaron Sexton being found in space by Zac
Ward, who had drew in two players and fired
out a perfect pass to Sexton, who had an
easy finish.
The conversion, from a difficult angle out
near the left touchline went wide.
Just three mins into the second half, and
Exeter extended their lead through their
English international wing, Feyi-Waboso,
who scooped up the pass out wide to dot
down for a well-worked score. Josh Hodge
added the conversion.
The away side piled on the pressure after the
restart, and attacked the Exeter tryline after
a lineout in the home side’s 22.
Penalties again gave Aidan Morgan
the chance to kick into the corner and
replacement, John Andrew, finished off an
excellent lineout maul try to put Ulster in the
lead. The conversion was missed.
The Chiefs would then wrestle back control of
the game and re-took the lead after their fullback,
Josh Hodge, found replacement winger,
Brown-Bampoe, out on the right wing deep
in the Ulster 22 to finish. Hodge converted to
give the home side an extra buffer.
South African winger, Werner Kok, came
on to make his debut appearance in an
Ulster jersey.
The home side’s try gave Exeter the confidence
to add two more late tries through wing,
Olly Woodburn, and replacement lock, Jack
Dunne, to flatter the scoreline.
Replacement flanker, Nick Timoney, almost
pulled off a spectacular try of his own after
kicking the ball downfield and over the
defender, however he was halted and the
home side were able to kick the ball dead
and end the pre-season contest.
Ulster made a change to the team, with Harry
Sheridan replacing Alan O’Connor in the
second row, and Kieran Treadwell skippering
the team for the first time.
Exeter Chiefs started off the stronger of the
two sides, and got their rewards for putting
the away side under pressure in their own 22.
Ulster’s lineout was overthrown and Exeter
quickly snatched the ball, hooker, Dan Frost,
Ulster were put under the cosh for a large
portion of the half, but the defensive discipline
would have pleased the Ulster coaches,
with Ulster constantly forcing Exeter into
coughing up penalties and frustrating the
home support.
Around the half-hour mark, winger, Ben
Moxham, made a welcome return to playing
action, after the big winger sustained an ACL
injury against Edinburgh last year.
Full-Time: EXE 31 - 15 ULS
15

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17

2024/25 Danske Bank
Ulster Schools’ Rugby
Competitions launched
The 2024/25 Danske Bank Ulster Schools’
Cup competitions were launched recently,
marking the 20th year of Danske Bank’s
partnership with Ulster Rugby.
In attendance were five of the winning
captains from last year’s competitions, as well
as the current captains from the respective
schools.
The defending Boys Schools’ Cup champions,
Royal Belfast Academical Institution (RBAI),
were represented by 1st XV captain, Blake
McClean and head coach, Jamie Kirk.
RBAI edged a thrilling final against Ballymena
Academy to secure back-to-back victories
in March, when they clinched the title with
a 21-14 win. Last year’s captain, Fraser
Cunningham, is now training with the IRFU’s
National Talent Squad and is on the team
sheet for Ulster Rugby’s Development Game
against Combined Scottish Academies ealier
this month.
The Danske Bank Ulster Girls Schools’ Cup was
retained for the second year by Enniskillen
Royal Grammar School. In last season’s final,
they showed a dominant display of rugby as
they defeated Assumption Grammar School
48-5. In attendance yesterday was past
captain Olivia Black, current captain Leah
Irwin and coach, Dee Colville.
RBAI also retained the Medallion Shield
for a second year running, and last year’s
captain, Cian McClean, was in attendance. In
last season’s final, RBAI put in an impressive
performance against Sullivan Upper School
at Kingspan Stadium, winning 36-10.
Campbell College were last year’s winners of
the Danske Bank Ulster U16 Cup, defeating
previous winners Wallace High School in a
brilliantly contested final at Pirrie Park, 45-
26. David Nelson represented the school at
the launch. This year’s final will be played at
Kingspan Stadium as an exciting addition to
the stadium’s fixtures, in the centenary year
of Ulster Rugby’s home ground.
Last season’s Danske Bank U16 Ulster
High Schools’ Trophy was won by Bangor
Academy, defeating Dunclug College 30-17
in an impressive win. Representing Bangor
Academy at yesterday’s event was past
captain, Steven Boyd, coach David Coey, and
current captain, Jamie Armstrong.
The Ulster Schools’ Committee was
represented by Chairman, Richard Clingan,
and PRO Barney McGonigle, with Ian Russell
and Clare Megarry in attendance on behalf
of Danske Bank.
Ulster Schools’ Committee Chairman,
Richard Clingan, said:
“We have had an exciting summer with the
Ulster Under 18 Schools team, sponsored
by Danske Bank, winning all four of their
Interprovincial matches to claim the Kevin
Kelleher Cup for the first time since 2017.
“The schools’ competition season gets
underway in the next couple of weeks with
the U16 Schools’ Cup, which has an increased
entry this year, highlighting the growth of
schools’ rugby.
“It will be great to see some of our most
talented schools’ players in action over the
months ahead, and we thank Danske Bank
for its support for our schools’ competitions
over the years.
“This is a notable year for schools’ rugby,
with Danske Bank celebrating its 20th year
supporting schools’ rugby competitions
whilst two of our participating schools,
Enniskillen Royal Grammar and Friends’
School Lisburn celebrate their 150th year of
rugby and 250th anniversary of the school’s
foundation respectively.
Head of Homebuying at Danske Bank, Ian
Russell, added:
“In 2024, Danske Bank is marking 200 years
of helping support Northern Ireland people,
business and society. Not only that, but this
new season of schools’ rugby marks our
20th year of partnership with Ulster Rugby.
“Over that time, we’ve seen the opportunities
to play great quality rugby increase, and
we’re so proud to not only support the Boys
Schools’ Cup but also now the Girls Schools’
Cup, the High Schools’ Cup, the U16 Cup, the
Medallion Shield, and a whole host of other
competitions – giving more young people
in schools across the country the chance to
get together, meet new friends, learn new
skills and foster a real love for rugby.
“We’re passionate about helping our local
communities and young people thrive, and
supporting youth sports across Northern
Ireland is one way we do that – through our
partnerships with Ulster Schools’ Rugby,
Ulster Schools GAA and the NI Schools’
Football Association. We’re looking forward
to an exciting season of rugby ahead, and
want to wish everyone taking part the very
best of luck.”
19

21

A Rich Rugby Background
Ken’s rugby journey began not on
the field but as captain of his school’s
running team. His height eventually led
him to rugby, where he played flanker for
Shankill YMCA and later Donaghadee
RFC. But it was at Annadale RFC that
Ken realised his playing days were
numbered due to injury. Encouraged by
friends, particularly Derek Henderson,
he turned to refereeing—a decision he
remains grateful for.
do—if only they had more referees.
“We need more referees,” Ken urges.
“If you’re considering hanging up your
boots or recovering from injury but
want to stay involved, please reach out
to Richard Kerr. We need more handson
deck, particularly at the school and
youth levels.”
His managerial role with the Fire Service
rugby team further prepared him for
the rigours of refereeing. “Managing
the team from 1987 to 1996 taught me
a lot about dealing with international
and senior players, which is just what a
referee needs to gain confidence,” Ken
reflects. Thirty years on, his experience
in both playing and officiating has left
an indelible mark on the Society and
wider game in Ulster.
Referees Corner
We welcome Adam Jones (WRU) and
his team of officials to Kingspan Stadium
for this evenings opening round BKT
United Rugby Championship game
against Glasgow. As always, Ulster
Rugby would like to remind spectators
to respect the decisions of the match
officials at all times.
In this edition of Referees Corner, we
feature the President of the Ulster
Society of Rugby Football Referees for
season 2024-25, Ken Spence.
For Ken, being appointed President
of the USRFR is a deeply humbling
experience. “I am honoured that
the Management Committee and
members asked me to take up the
position of President for the 2024-
25 season,” he says. Ken’s journey in
rugby began with a 15-year refereeing
career, followed by a decade spent
coaching development referees
aspiring to break into the IRFU National
Panel. His new role has broadened his
appreciation for the game.
“The amount of work carried out by
the various committees within the
USRFR is astounding,” he admits. From
Operations to Administration, Finance,
and Activities. Ken looks forward to the
upcoming season and representing the
Society at provincial and club dinners,
reconnecting with referees and players
from “his day.”
Memorable Moments with the Society
Ken’s background with the USRFR
has been rich with unforgettable
experiences.
From meeting international players
like Scott Hastings and David Sole
to participating in iconic events like
the 1994 Ravenhill Sevens, where he
encountered French legends Laurent
Cabannes and Abdel Benazzi, Ken
has truly been at the heart of some of
the finest moments in rugby in Ulster
and beyond. His career also includes
refereeing Schools Cup semi-finals
and AIL matches, as well as the
privilege of meeting rugby greats like
Lawrence Dallaglio, Ben Clarke, and
the Quinnell brothers.
The new USRFR President is continually
impressed by the work of the USRFR,
particularly in the development of new
referees. “I’m amazed at the amount of
work put in to support new referees,
taking up the whistle for the first time”
he states. The Society runs New Referee
courses in August and December, led
by Richard Kerr and Lee Evans, which
are held in high regard by the IRFU.
New referees also benefit from a
comprehensive induction programme
and regular area meetings to discuss
the laws of the game. In addition, the
USRFR has implemented a mentoring
scheme where more experienced
referees can receive guidance from
high-level officials.
Last season, the Society introduced
video analysis for more referees than
ever before, followed by personalised
feedback sessions. “This form of
monitoring has been well received,
with participants reporting improved
performance,” but Ken emphasises that
there is always more the USRFR could
If interested in becoming a Referee, please contact:
Richard Kerr
Referee Development Manager
richard.kerr@irfu.ie | 07493 868 388
When asked to name his favourite rugby
moments, Ken’s passion for the game
is clear. Standout memories include
Ulster’s European Cup Final victory
and any win against New Zealand. He
also holds Ireland’s performance at
the recent World Cup in high regard,
despite the team’s exit at the quarterfinal
stage. “I know Ireland were beaten,
but they were superb.”
Ken Spence’s journey through rugby
has been a memorable and thrilling
one, and under his leadership, the
USRFR continues to uphold the highest
standards of refereeing in Ulster. As
the 2024-25 season gets underway,
everyone in Ulster Rugby and beyond
wish Ken well on his year as President
of USRFR.
U.S.R.F.R

COACHES
Richie
Murphy
Dan
Soper
Jimmy
Duffy
Jonny
Bell
MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Your Ulster squad for the 2024/25 Season.
Ireland International and product of the
Ulster Rugby Academy, Iain Henderson
Captains the team for the fifth year running.
New signings include South African
winger, Werner Kok, Kiwi fly-half, Aidan
Morgan, Irish Olympic Sevens star, Zac
Ward, and tighthead prop, Corrie Barrett.
With seven new talents joining the
province’s Academy ranks this season,
twenty young hopefuls will be pushing to
make their impact in the senior side over
the coming season.
CAPTAIN
Iain
Henderson
Lock
21/02/1992
199cm
119kg
152
81
WATCH | Exclusive Interview with Aidan Morgan
25

ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Hooker
26/05/1993
180cm
104kg
121
-
John
Andrew
Wing
19/08/1997
193cm
96kg
69
4
Rob
Baloucoune
Centre
24/02/2002
183cm
98kg
1
-
Ben
Carson
Scrum Half
01/05/1990
178cm
86kg
141
11
John
Cooney
Back Row
28/01/2002
188cm
102kg
5
-
Reuben
Crothers
Scrum Half
17/12/2001
185cm
86kg
67
-
Nathan
Doak
Fly Half
07/06/1999
183cm
93kg
15
-
Jake
Flannery
Hooker
27/04/1990
185cm
106kg
241
40
Reuben
Crothers
Rob
Herring
Centre
07/09/1998
188cm
100kg
95
3
James
Hume
Fly Half
14/11/2001
185cm
83kg
-
-
James
Humphreys
Lock
28/01/2000
201cm
118kg
29
-
Cormac
Izuchukwu
Wing
17/01/1993
180cm
96kg
-
Reuben
Crothers
Werner
Kok
Full Back
20/08/1998
170cm
78kg
103
1
Mike
Lowry
Back Row
13/06/2000
193cm
110kg
46
-
David
McCann
Centre
06/08/1992
193cm
112kg
190
18
Stuart
McCloskey
Back Row
28/01/2002
188cm
102kg
5
-
Reuben
Crothers
Prop
13/06/1998
177cm
120kg
-
Corrie
Barrett
ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Hooker
08/01/2002
183cm
107kg
-
-
James
McCormick
Scrum Half
24/06/1999
178cm
87kg
-
-
Michael
McDonald
Back Row
28/02/2003
194cm
116kg
-
-
James
McNabney
Scrum Half
20/03/2001
183cm
86kg
-
-
Conor
McKee
Wing
10/08/2000
188cm
90kg
63
-
Ethan
McIlroy
Scrum Half
03/04/2002
189cm
109kg
-
-
Lorcan
McLoughlin
Prop
01/03/1991
178cm
124kg
94
10
Marty
Moore
Utility Back
08/08/1999
184cm
93kg
67
-
Stewart
Moore
Wing
09/06/2001
191cm
101kg
31
-
Ben
Moxham
Fly Half
07/06/2001
172cm
82kg
-
-
Aidan
Morgan
Lock
10/09/1992
196cm
115kg
196
-
Alan
O’Connor
Prop
30/11/1995
183cm
118kg
115
1
Eric
O’Sullivan
Centre
03/04/2002
193cm
106kg
12
-
Jude
Postlethwaite
Prop
23/09/1998
184cm
120kg
106
13
Tom
O’Toole
Back Row
08/09/1997
188cm
110kg
47
-
Marcus
Rea
Back Row
21/09/1993
193cm
114kg
100
-
Matty
Rea
27

ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Utility Back
11/12/1998
191cm
101kg
-
-
Zac
Ward
Prop
06/01/1999
183cm
116.5kg
18
-
Callum
Reid
Back Row
04/11/1998
180cm
102kg
8
-
Sean
Reffell
Wing
24/08/2000
188cm
95kg
10
-
Aaron
Sexton
Scrum Half
20/06/1993
175cm
77kg
92
-
Dave
Shanahan
Back Row
21/09/2001
195cm
121kg
28
-
Reuben
Crothers
Harry
Sheridan
Hooker
11/01/2001
183cm
105kg
46
2
Tom
Stewart
Wing
03/04/1996
191cm
104kg
120
37
Jacob
Stockdale
Back Row
01/08/1995
188cm
112kg
146
3
Nick
Timoney
Lock
06/11/1995
198cm
118kg
157
11
Reuben
Crothers
Kieran
Treadwell
Prop
12/03/1991
178cm
115kg
192
-
Andrew
Warwick
Prop
01/05/2003
187cm
117kg
-
Jack
Boal
Prop
10/07/2004
186cm
114kg
-
Jacob
Boyd
Back Row
26/06/2004
189cm
111kg
-
Tom
Brigg
Centre
16/01/2004
183cm
93kg
-
Sam
Berman
Prop
06/08/2002
186cm
125kg
16
-
Scott
Wilson
Prop
17/12/2003
190cm
127kg
-
Cameron
Doak
Wing /Fullback
27/04/2004
181cm
88kg
-
Ethan
Graham
Lock
16/03/2004
201cm
115kg
1
Joe
Hopes
Lock
28/01/2003
203cm
117kg
-
Charlie
Irvine
Wing /Fullback
08/09/2004
185cm
100kg
-
Lucas
Kenny
Hooker
17/06/2004
177cm
100kg
1
Zac
Solomon
Hooker
01/01/2003
187cm
105kg
-
Henry
Walker
Wing /Fullback
04/10/2004
174cm
77kg
-
Ben
McFarlane
Back Row
14/12/2004
178cm
101kg
-
Josh
Stevens
Wing /Fullback
29/08/2003
184cm
90kg
-
Rory
Telfer
Centre
16/08/2004
180cm
90kg
-
Wilhelm
De Klerk
Scrum Half
11/08/2005
176cm
78kg
-
Clark
Logan
Back Row
15/12/2004
197cm
112kg
-
James
McKillop
Fly Half
15/07/2004
177cm
83kg
-
Jack
Murphy
Centre
15/08/2005
191cm
99kg
-
Jonny
Scott
Back Row
17/07/2004
185cm
115kg
-
Bryn
Ward
ULSTER RUGBY ACADEMY
29

Half-Time
Exhibition Games
NEVIN SPENCE MEMORIAL STAND END ABBEYAUTOLINE FAMILY STAND END
Ballyclare
Kit: Red
1 Owen Morrison
2 Joshua Hargie
3 Thomas Hall
4 Finlay Smyth
5 Harry McColgan
6 Henry Coulter
7 Noah Lowry
8 Cory Crosbie
9 Finlay Hamilton
10 Luke Semple
11 Connor Graham
12 Angus Hassard
Larne
Kit: Red & Green
1 Sophia Howie
2 Lexi Benson
3 Jamie-Lee Rowney
4 Alexander McFetridge
5 Luca Kernaghan
6 Matthew Thompson
7 Will McCluggage
8 Jody McDowell
9 Leo Filbey
10 Luc Bradley
11 Jaden McCreight
12 Ben Conway
1 Tyler Pearson
2 Dualta Donaghy-Letters
3 Mason Walker
4 Brian Logan
5 Ethan Williamson
6 Sam Miller
7 Alfie McGuckien
8 Cahir Sisk
9 Ronan Kerr
10 Thomas McClelland
11 Kiran Jayaprakash
12
Randalstown
Kit: Red
Enniskillen
Kit: Maroon & Navy
1 Lee McCann
2 Noah Cluff
3 Korey Crozier
4 Rory Adair
5 Mason Livingstone
6 Oscar Loane
7 Brody Fallis
8 Adam Dixon
9 Luke Balfour
10 Samuel Mitten
11 Ross Armstrong
12 Reuben Leslie
31

33

1
2
3
1
2
1
Eric O’SULLIVAN
John ANDREW
Corrie BARRETT
Jamie BHATTI
Johnny MATTHEWS
Sam TALAKAI
4
5
4
5
C
Iain HENDERSON
Kieran TREADWELL
Max WILLIAMSON
Richie GRAY
6
8
7
6
8
7
James McNABNEY
Nick TIMONEY
David McCANN
Matt FAGERSON
Henco VENTER
Rory DARGE
9
9
Nathan DOAK
Jamie Dobie
10
10
11
Aidan MORGAN
11
Tom JORDAN
Jacob STOCKDALE
12
Kyle STEYN
C
12
Jude POSTLETHWAITE
Sione TUIPULOTU
Replacements
13
Replacements
13
16 James McCORMICK
16 Gregor HIDDLESTON
17 Andrew WARWICK
Stewart MOORE
17 Nathan McBETH
Stafford McDOWALL
18 Tom O’TOOLE
18 Zander FAGERSON
19 Harry SHERIDAN
14
19 Alex SAMUEL
14
20 Cormac IZUCHUKWU
21 Dave SHANAHAN
15
Mike LOWRY
20 Gregor BROWN
21 Euan FERRIE
15
Sebastian CANCELLIERE
22 James HUMPHREYS
22 Ben AFSHAR
23 Werner KOK
Ethan McILROY
23 Adam HASTINGS
Josh McKAY
Referee: Adam Jones
Assistant Refs: Robbie Jenkinson & Padraic Reidy TMO: Tom Spurrier
35

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Ambitious
Target
Areas
Energy,
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Circularity,
Water
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to Sustainability
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Five
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Leaving the planet
in a better place
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communities
projects 1
37

GLASGOW
Tonight we welcome current BKT
URC Champions, Glasgow Warriors,
who showed their class winning the
trophy the hard way - in Pretoria SA,
in front of 50,000 fans, 13-0 down
after 40 minutes.
Rugby fans will also remember back to
2015, when Glasgow claimed their first
major honour by defeating Munster 31-
Sione Tuipulotu
Sione Tuipulotu joined Glasgow Warriors in
2021, after time with the Queensland Reds
and Japanese side, Yamaha Júbilo.
A sizable presence on the wing or in midfield,
Tuipulotu has now clocked-up 27 international
appearances for Scotland. After excelling in
the 2023 Guinness Six Nations, Tuipulotu was
named in the Team of the Championship.
Tuipulotu made his debut for Glasgow
against Ulster in the opening match of the
2021/22 season.
PREVIOUS
MEETINGS
NOV
2023
GLA 33
ULS 20
13 in the Guinness PRO12 final, here at
Kingspan Stadium.
Under the leadership of Franco Smith,
this Glasgow squad is a good mix of
young talent and seasoned players.
The familiar faces of past-players Al
Dickinson and Peter Murchie help make
up the coaching panel.
OCT
2023
ULS 19
GLA 14
Jamie Bhatti
FEB
2023
GLA 17
ULS 11
Another Glasgow centurian to watch, this
time in the front row - is
Loosehead Prop, Jamie Bhatti.
Bhatti has moved between both Scottish clubs,
and spent time playing for Bath in the English
Premiership, however, returning to Glasgow
in 2021 has evidentally been his best move.
A consistent scrummager, with plenty of
power, Bhatti can put any rival front row under
immense pressure.
NAME POSITION DOB HEIGHT WEIGHT
Allan DELL Prop 16/03/1992 1.85 m 112 kg
Fin RICHARDSON Prop 16/09/1998 1.83 m 120 kg
Jamie BHATTI Prop 08/09/1993 1.85 m 125 kg
Murphy WALKER Prop 25/10/1999 1.85 m 110 kg
Nathan McBETH Prop 08/06/1998 1.89 m 120 kg
Patrick SCHICKERLING Prop 16/10/1998 1.82 m 120 kg
Rory SUTHERLAND Prop 24/08/1992 1.83 m 116 kg
Sam TALAKAI Prop 04/09/1991 1.83 m 122 kg
Zander FAGERSON Prop 19/01/1996 1.88 m 126 kg
Angus FRASER Hooker 09/12/1999 1.81 m 110 kg
Grant STEWART Hooker 28/02/1995 1.82 m 113 kg
Gregor HIDDLESTON Hooker 26/02/2002 1.87 m 120 kg
Johnny MATTHEWS Hooker 05/07/1993 1.83 m 110 kg
Alex SAMUEL Lock 27/12/2002 2.07 m 115 kg
Euan FERRIE Lock 23/07/2001 1.94 m 107 kg
Gregor BROWN Lock 01/07/2001 1.96 m 109 kg
JP DU PREEZ Lock 09/11/1994 2.08 m 130 kg
Max WILLIAMSON Lock 08/05/2002 2.01 m 120 kg
Richie GRAY Lock 24/08/1989 2.05 m 126 kg
Scott CUMMINGS Lock 03/12/1996 1.99 m 117 kg
Ally MILLER Back row 10/05/1996 1.93 m 112 kg
Henco VENTER Back row 27/03/1992 1.87 m 108 kg
Jack DEMPSEY Back row 12/04/1994 1.91 m 112 kg
Jack MANN Back row 17/11/1999 1.94 m 114 kg
Matt FAGERSON Back row 16/07/1998 1.86 m 110 kg
Rory DARGE Back row 23/02/2000 1.86 m 102 kg
Sione VAILANU Back row 27/01/1995 1.89 m 119 kg
Ben AFSHAR Scrum-half 02/04/2003 1.84 m 81 kg
George HORNE Scrum-half 12/05/1995 1.74 m 81 kg
Jamie DOBIE Scrum-half 07/06/2001 1.75 m 81 kg
Sean KENNEDY Scrum-half 24/04/1991 1.73 m 80 kg
Adam HASTINGS Fly-half 05/10/1996 1.89 m 93 kg
Duncan WEIR Fly-half 10/05/1991 1.76 m 91 kg
Huw JONES Centre 17/12/1993 1.86 m 102 kg
Kyle STEYN Centre 29/01/1994 1.88 m 102 kg
Sione TUIPULOTU Centre 11/02/1997 1.78 m 104 kg
Stafford MCDOWALL Centre 24/02/1998 1.93 m 103 kg
Tom JORDAN Centre 18/09/1998 1.89 m 95 kg
Facundo CORDERO Winger 31/07/1998 1.77 m 86 kg
Logan TROTTER Winger 01/02/1998 1.86 m 88 kg
Sebastián CANCELLIERE Winger 17/09/1993 1.85 m 90 kg
Josh McKAY Fullback 10/10/1997 1.83 m 95 kg
Kyle ROWE Fullback 08/02/1998 1.83 m 88 kg
Ollie SMITH Fullback 07/08/2000 1.88 m 90 kg
39

TRAINING
41

RELAXED ULSTER
PROMISES SO
MUCH
Guest Article
by Rod Nawn
It’ been a long wait but at last the BKT
United Rugby Championship year begins
this late September Saturday evening.
And what an opening game for supporters
of both sides it is, as reigning champions
Glasgow Warriors arrive in Belfast with a
healthy and vocal contingent of fans adding
a swirl of colour to an occasion which never
lacks passion, excitement and Celtic fervour.
Richie Murphy has had his first pre-season
in charge of Ulster and he certainly changed
the mood in the camp at the end of last
season. He’s intent now on building a side
for the future, aware of the constraints
at the club but encouraged by the native
talent that has been assembled.
His opposite number is the celebrated
and much-travelled Springbok Franco
Smith, who has carved out an impressive
coaching career in his native country and
across Europe.
Schmidt’s tenure with Ireland, then creating
of serial Under 20s Six Nations winners
means two of the most rounded and shrewd
coaches in the game face off at Kingspan
Stadium this weekend.
For the home supporters, Murphy’s arrival
has seen some younger players been given
their chance and thrived. Forwards Harry
Sheridan, Cormac Izuchukwu and Scott
Wilson are just a few of those who have
been given more responsibility and named
this week in the Emerging Ireland squad to
tour South Africa next month.
They are joined by centre Jude Postlethwaite,
out-half Jack Murphy and international
Sevens star Zac Ward in Simon Easterby’s
panel for the trip, and recognition at this
international level is what Murphy would
like to see increase as he shapes his squad
for the longer term.
Steven Kitshoff, Dave Ewers, Will Addison
and Billy Burns are amongst those who have
departed and recruitment over the summer
has been targeted principally on Irishqualified
players. Indeed, no fewer than 42
players available to Murphy are eligible for
Ireland’s call.
The Head Coach is a proven competitor so
though he has a clear and realistic vision of
the years to come he will certainly want to
field an Ulster side which can be ‘owned’
by supporters and show itself as ready for
the challenge of the stern demands of the
URC and Europe’s Champions Cup.
With the indomitable Iain Henderson leading
the charge, and with classy operators
such as John Cooney, Nathan Doak, Nick
Timoney, Rob Herring, Alan O’Connor and
many more experienced, hardened players
in the ranks, Ulster will not shy away from
the search for success.
Stuart McCloskey’s decision to sign a new
contract this week is the sort of boost all
will applaud, and the Irish centre has been
the fulcrum of the backline for several
years. Despite tempting offers from abroad,
McCloskey opted to extend his stay at
the club which nurtured him since he was
a stand-out teenage talent. With James
Hume recovering from major surgery,
Robert Baloucoune and Jacob Stockdale
refreshed, and Stewart Moore, Ethan McIlroy,
Postlethwaite, Mike Lowry, Ben Moxham,
Aaron Sexton and others vying for a spot
in the starting line-up, the attacking quality
available is not in doubt.
At half-back Aidan Morgan has arrived from
New Zealand but with Irish credentials and
he, Jake Flannery, James Humphreys and,
perhaps, Doak and Lowry, will compete for
the No.10 shirt, while Cooney, the returning
Michael McDonald, David Shanahan and
Doak will be the obvious scrum-half options.
Corrie Barrett has signed a one-year
deal after an impressive trial and the
26-year-old adds to the depth at prop
where Andy Warwick, Eric O’Sullivan,
Wilson and Tom O’Toole are front-rowers
of undoubted quality.
So there is much to admire about how Bryn
Cunningham, in tandem with Murphy, has
gone about his recruitment responsibilities,
and there is a vital characteristic about the
squad: a genuine Ulster identity.
Supporters crave a relationship with their
players which goes beyond eighty minutes
each week, and they are most proud and
loyal when the side is palpably driven by a
desire to compete for the club born of the
community. Yes, the big names like Pienaar,
Payne, Afoa, Vermeulen and Piutau have
been taken to the crowd’s heart because
they truly immersed themselves in this place.
Appointed by the Warriors in August 2022,
he has turned a side which never quite
appeared to fulfil its potential into a group
which last season peaked at precisely the
right time to surprise many by capturing
the URC title. And it was hardly done the
easy way, a play-off semi-final win at then
champions Munster and, a week later,
a spectacular defeat in Pretoria of the
fancied Bulls.
Smith’s success at club and at international
level, Murphy’s distinguished role in Joe
Newly-arrived three-quarter Werner Kok is
a South African who understands the legacy
left by those star imports, the commitment
they showed to the Ulster cause. His career
has seen him become one of the Blitzboks’
most gifted Sevens players, and in the
fuller format, the Sharks and Toulouse are
just two of the clubs where he has made an
indelible mark.
Both of tonight’s teams have used a
43

elatively brief pre-season to give game
time to most of the players on their rosters,
though Murphy has given his Ireland summer
tourists extra preparatory time.
Franco Smith had most of his first-choice
game panel on international duty during
a lengthy summer tour in the southern
hemisphere and has used many of those
players in the warm-up defeats at Zebre
and against Connacht. Murphy used
the win over Benetton and the loss at
Exeter Chiefs last weekend to look at the
options he has to challenge many of the
established squad.
Ulster will be without Rob Herring and
his hooking rival Tom Stewart against the
Warriors so John Andrews is a likely starter.
Baloucoune, James Hume and John Cooney
will miss the opener through injury, and there
will be many hoping Zac Ward overcomes
a groin strain to make a full competitive
appearance in the white jersey.
Smith has been busy in the close season and
Scotstoun saw thirteen players leave but no
fewer than sixteen sign on, including some
familiar faces. Adam Hastings has returned
from Gloucester and the Scottish out-half is
a creative playmaker who can turn any game.
Up front the Warriors have brought in no
fewer than five props, one of them the
returning Rory Sutherland, who had a
brief stay at Ravenhill in recent seasons.
Sam Talaki, Patrick Schickerling and Fin
Richardson will join Zander Fagerson and
Jamie Bhatti in the competition for a spot
in a very robust pack.
The exceptionally talented Huw Jones will
surely be an important player for Smith
again this season, and in a squad littered
with international talent, lock Richie Gray,
breakaway Matt Fagerson and scrum-half
George Horne were key to the URC success
last season and remain valued members of
the panel.
This evening’s game will undoubtedly
have real ‘edge’, and the Scots will have
the confidence of being the title-holders.
But they might know less about the likely
Ulster line-up but one player they will have
the highest regard for is the home side’s
captain and inspiration.
Iain Henderson will lead the team out after
a frustrating year with injury and he is in
the mood to show just why he is a two-time
Lions tourist and one of Andy Farrell’s most
important lieutenants.
Welcome back, Iain. Your return could not
be better timed before a demanding start
to the season with a two-week stay in South
Africa to follow before Connacht come to
Belfast next month.
It is a game to savour, a season of intriguing
possibilities and potential progress for the
home side.
Murphy’s Law effectively starts now, and it
seems we are all in for a fascinating ride,
and a happy one.
45

Iain Henderson
On pre-season…
We’ve had a really positive pre-season, the new head of Strength
and Conditioning, Sam Dodge, has been brilliant. Richie and Sam
have put together a really good programme, to not only have
a pre-season that is good for development but also enjoyable.
All of the lads have really enjoyed it and we feel in a really good
place.
On the make-up of the squad
With this young group of lads they are very good, you see the
likes of David McCann and Harry Sheridan, they put a lot of
pressure on themselves and exhibit a lot of positive leadership
talents. It’s great to see and positive for us older guys to see.
The young guys who come in and been very adaptive and
open with the changes that Richie is trying to make.
It’s been really positive.
On Glasgow this weekend
We are really forward to getting out at home
for a proper league game. It’s going to be
obviously a difficult one up against the
previous champions but most games in the
league are difficult and you can’t afford to
slip up in any. We want to get our season
off to a good start and do it in front of our
home crowd, it’s big for us.
Injury free?
For the last four of five weeks I have been
training fully and feel fit, I’ve been really
appreciate of all the work the guys have
put in to help me. Chris McNicholl and
the other physios have been great for me
to ensure I am fighting fit as I am now. I
feel in great shape to come in and play,
training this week has been a great test
for that.
Targets for season
We haven’t really talked that much about
last season or where we finished. With the
squad we have we are focused on constantly
improving, we can see huge improvements with our
young guys in pre-season and we want to see that
continue into the season. When we do get something wrong
like we will or lose a game, we will try change it, fix it and
increase our adaptability. That ability to change things up
will make them all better players.
We are in a good spot but, we aren’t the finished article yet.
We are a tight knit bunch but there is a lot of work for us to
do together. There are a lot of guys in there who are working
hard and want to make that better. We want to keep that
buy-in from everyone and want that to grow.
Stuart McCloskey’s contract news
He is a larger than life character around the place
for years here. What he adds to the field he
adds tenfold off it, for us to have him stay here
is fantastic. Ulster as an organisation are really
lucky to keep him and we are as a player group
to keep him here for rugby and everything else
he does for us.
On dealing with injury setbacks in the past
Last year I played 22 or 24 games which was
after a World Cup year and then right the
way through to a few weeks post Six Nations
Championship. I felt like I was in a good place
going forward. I’m at the stage of my career
that I’ve had a fair share of injuries and I
know what to expect if that comes. I’m looking
forward to concentrating on my rugby.
Thoughts on the new kit?
I think all stakeholders here would say its
been a very welcome decision with the
designs. The players are all very happy
with the kit, Castore have been fantastic
at engaging with us and the feedback has
been great!
Lock
21/02/1992
199cm
119kg
152
81
47

39% growth in
women & girls’
participation
Ulster Rugby has released statistics
showcasing the increased involvement of
women and girls, both as players and in
shaping the sport.
In addition to the 39%+ overall participation
statistic for the local game, Ulster Rugby, the
Governing Body for rugby in the province,
has today released figures revealing that
from the 2022/23 season to the past one,
a 23% increase in the number of schools
participating in the game – with 567 players
registered across 39 schools.
Rugby in Ulster also saw a 20% increase in
participation in the female Youth and Mini
categories within the club game played
across the province’s 51 domestic clubs.
Meanwhile, adult participation also grew at a
rate of 6% over the same twelve-month period.
Ulster Rugby can also confirm that it is not
only from a participation perspective that
women and girls are increasingly involved
in the sport. In governance and decisionmaking,
of the five Ulster representatives
who report to the IRFU on the province’s
behalf, two are women – Diane Nixon and
Laura Thompson. Diane also chairs the IRFU
Disciplinary Committee, and Laura sits on a
number of other IRFU committees.
The membership of Ulster Rugby’s
Management Committee is now 23% female
– with Wendy Galbraith, Ellvena Graham and
Paula Stewart holding positions.
Similarly, the targeted 25%+ female
participation in the provinces’ Branch
Committee has been achieved with the
figure currently sat at 30% and due to rise
in the seasons ahead.
On the news, Ulster Rugby CEO, Hugh
McCaughey, said:
“With Women and Girls as the fastest growing
section of our game, we have ambitious plans
at Ulster Rugby to continue transforming the
sport in the next three to five years.
“In-line with the new strategic plan recently
set out by the IRFU, we want to be at the
forefront of that transformation, and for the
Women and Girls’ game to be unrecognisable
in the near future.
“Today’s figures show the important strides
forward that have been made in terms of
participation and governance, and we want
to continue to build on this.
“We have been honoured to host the likes of
the Women’s Interprovincial Championship
Finals Day at Kingspan Stadium recently,
thanks to the recent installation of the 3G
pitch, and it’s set to be a very competitive
fixture on Saturday when the Ireland Women
take on Australia in Belfast in what is set to
be a great day out for rugby fans.”
Mollie Davies, Women and Girls’
Development Manager, added:
“We have witnessed the emergence of many
great local role models for young women and
girls looking to get involved in any aspect of
the game in recent times, including during
this summer’s Women’s Interprovincial
Championship that our Senior Women’s
squad competed in.
“It’s really encouraging to see the strong
participation figures across all aspects of
rugby in Ulster, with those statistics set to
grow in the season ahead. It’s an exciting
time to be involved in the Women and Girls’
game for everyone.”
49

Spot the Difference
Can you spot the 5 differences?
51

A Weekend of All-Ireland League Action
The Energia All-Ireland League is back
with a bang this weekend, offering plenty
of excitement. With Ulster derbies, newly
promoted teams, and fierce rivalries, there’s
something for everyone.
One of the most anticipated matches is
the clash between Ballynahinch and City of
Armagh in Division 1A. These two teams have
a long-standing rivalry, and their encounters
are always hard-fought. Ballynahinch finished
fifth last season, while Armagh were eighth.
Ahead of the game, both teams expressed
their excitement and optimism. Ballynahinch
captain, Bradley Luney, highlighted the
positive atmosphere within the squad, stating,
“There’s been a great buzz around training
for the whole of preseason. A lot of lads have
got an opportunity in the Ulster League and
the first AIL selection is always pretty highly
anticipated so the excitement is building.”
City of Armagh captain, Nigel Simpson,
emphasised the team’s preparations and
their eagerness to build on last season’s
performances, saying, “We are hugely excited
as a squad to kick off the AIL this weekend,
coming off the back of a successful Ulster
League campaign. We got a taste for rugby
in the top division in Ireland last year and
we enjoyed the challenge against the best
in the country. We’re looking to build on our
performances from last year.”
Another exciting fixture is the meeting between
Instonians and Buccaneers in Division 2A.
Instonians, newly promoted from Division 2B
after winning 16 from 18 games last season,
will be looking to make a statement in their
first season at this level.
In Division 2B, Clogher Valley, also newly
promoted, will face a tough test against Malone.
Clogher Valley topped the table in Division
2C last year, while Malone were relegated
from Division 2A, promising another tightly
contested Ulster derby.
Finally, Ballyclare will make their AIL debut
against Tullamore. Ballyclare secured
promotion to senior rugby after a great season
last year, winning the All-Ireland Junior Cup
and the AIL play-offs against Monkstown in a
33-28 thriller.
Sat 21 Sep, all kick-offs 2.30pm
Division 1A
Ballynahinch v City of Armagh
QUB v Shannon
Division 1B
Ballymena v Galway Corinthians
Banbridge v MU Barnall
Buccaneers v Instonians
Division 2A
Dungannon v Malahide
Malone v Clogher Valley
Wanderers v Rainey
Division 2C
Enniscorthy v Belfast Harlequins
Omagh Academicals v Clonmel
FieldsTullamore v Ballyclare
53

GUESS WHO?
Can you name the 4 players?
Top to Bottom: John Andrew, Werner Kok, Tom Stewart, Scott Wilson

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H Zebre Parma Sun 26 Jan 5.30pm URC
H Queensland Reds Fri 7 Feb 7.35pm Friendly
A Benetton Sat 15 Feb 5.15pm URC
H Scarlets Sat 1 Mar 5.15pm URC
Ready to See the Difference?
Book your free consultation today and
take the first step towards clearer vision!
89-91 ACADEMY STREET, BELFAST BT1 2LS.
Tel: 028 9032 2020
Email: info@cathedraleye.com
A Dragons Sat 22 Mar 5.15pm URC
H DHL Stormers Fri 28 Mar 7.35pm URC
A Leinster Sat 19 Apr 7.35pm URC
H HollywoodBets Sharks Sat 26 Apr 7.35pm URC
A Munster Fri 9 May 7.35pm URC
A Edinburgh Fri 16 May 7.35pm URC
Friendlies
supported by
*UK/IRE Time
61

Thank You!
SPIRIT OF ‘99 THE 1924
HEINEKEN
QUARTER BAR
CLUBHOUSE
BAR
CLUBHOUSE
KITCHEN
Ulster Rugby wish to thank all of our sponsors
and partners for their continued support.
Main Sponsor
PROMENADE 1
PROMENADE 2
ABBEY AUTOLINE
FAMILY STAND
RAVENHILL
SUITE
FAMILY TERRACE
NEVIN SPENCE MEMORIAL TERRACE
SCRUM
BAR
CASTORE
SHOP
LINEOUT
BAR
NEVIN SPENCE MEMORIAL STAND
FAN ZONE /
FOOD VILLAGE
Kit Sponsor
Official On-kit Sponsors
EAST TERRACE
BACKLINE
BAR
A&L GOODBODY LOUNGE
Official Sponsors
CORPORATE BOXES
Catering
The Food Village will be in operation,
serving a variety of cuisines, while the
Cool FM Crew will provide the soundtrack
for the evening.
All five public bars will also be in operation,
with live entertainment in the Clubhouse Bar.
Castore Shop
The Castore Shop 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
63

Enjoy the
big match
in style
ulster.rugby/hospitality
65

2024/25
FIXTURES
SCAN &
SYNC TO
YOUR
CALENDAR!
ulster.rugby