BKT-URC_Match-Programme-Ulster-v-Munster

Official Match Day Programme
ULSTER
v MUNSTER
Fri 20 Dec 2024, 7.35pm
Kingspan Stadium

CONTENTS
04 Kingspan
Welcome
11
05 Mascots
07 President’s
Welcome
11
Enniskillen in
AIL Final
16
12
Last Time Out
Ulster v Bordeaux
16
Ulster Rugby’s
Foundation Day
20 Referees’
Corner
31 Half-Time
Exhibition Games
#evYuMr
PROUD TITLE SPONSOR OF THE
46
34 Teams
38 Munster
42
Players to Watch
And Now
For Something
Different
BKT UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
52
46
Zac Ward
Interview
52
59
40 Years On:
QUB Australian
Tour
James McNabney
Q&A
3

MASCOTS
Name: Robbie Thompson
Age: 9
From: Tandragee
I am excited to come to Kingspan
Stadium, meet the players and run out
onto the pitch in front of the crowd.
My favourite player is Iain Henderson.
KINGSPAN WELCOME
Welcome back to Kingspan Stadium as
Ulster Rugby takes on Munster Rugby
in Round 8 of the BKT United Rugby
Championship. Tonight’s match brings
the excitement of an interprovincial derby
and highlights an important step in our
shared commitment to sustainability.
For this special fixture, the Ulster team
will wear jerseys featuring Kingspan’s
Planet Passionate branding in place
of our usual logo. This one-night-only
initiative emphasises the importance of
environmental responsibility and the role
we all play in building a sustainable future.
Planet Passionate, Kingspan’s global
sustainability programme, is focused on
tackling key challenges such as climate
change and waste reduction. Together
with Ulster Rugby, we are taking steps to
make a positive impact, both on and off
the pitch.
accuracy, with the winner taking home a
limited-edition Planet Passionate Ulster
Rugby Shirt.
Ulster will be looking to maintain their
strong home record, while Munster will aim
to overcome recent away struggles. With
pride and provincial rivalry on the line,
tonight’s game is set to deliver another
memorable chapter in this historic fixture.
Thank you for your support and enjoy
the match!
SUFTUM!
Richard Beswick
Sports Sponsorship Manager
Kingspan
Name: Louis McIlroy
Age: 11
From: Belfast
It is a dream of mine to run out in front
of all the fans. The atmosphere will be
unbelievable.
I play rugby at my school,
RBAI and for Instonians RFC.
My favourite player is John Cooney.
I love to kick and hope to be as good
as him one day.
Before the game, why not test your
rugby skills at the Kingspan Scrum-half
Challenge, located at the Kingspan Cabin?
It’s a chance to showcase your speed and
4
5

President’s Welcome
Hello all and welcome to Kingspan Stadium
for our BKT United Rugby Championship
Round 8 fixture versus Munster Rugby.
It’s our final home fixture of the year, and I
want to thank all of our wonderful supporters
for coming to each game, whether home
or away.
We appreciate spending your hard- earned
money to come and be part of something
here at Ulster Rugby.
The year has had it’s ups and downs but I
think many will join me in saying there have
been green shoots in the form of the young
players coming through over the past year
under Head Coach, Richie Murphy.
This was showcased this week when we
announced the contracts for Ben Carson and
Zac Ward, two players who will hopefully
make a big impact for the senior side for
the months to come.
The last couple of weeks have been
difficult results wise against top tier French
opposition but last Saturday showed plenty
of promise in a strong first half.
It was my pleasure to attend and participate
in the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup draw
this week. Danske Bank are celebrating their
20th year of supporting Schools’ Rugby, a
competition that is steeped in the history
of the province.
I’d like to congratulate them on their own
anniversary, as they also celebrate 200
years of supporting people, businesses and
society as a bank.
I wish all of our Ulster clubs the very best
this weekend, as the province gears up for
another cracking weekend of rugby.
The Senior Cup resumes this weekend and
the Celtic Challenge 2024/25 also kicks off
this Sunday with the Wolfhounds taking on
the Clovers at Energia Park.
This tournament is great for the development
of our women’s game and we wish all those
participating a great competition.
I’d also like to wish Enniskillen RFC for the
upcoming All-Ireland Junior Cup Final, we
are all behind you!
Finally, we wish everybody a great enjoyable
evening and a fantastic Christmas season.
These interpro derbies are always an
emotional affair and we need to do all we
can to make it as intimidating as possible
for our visitors.
After tonight, we have another tough derby
fixture against Connacht away in Galway to
see out the year.
2025 offers a lot of excitement and I can’t
wait to see how the team develops in the
months to come.
SUFTUM
Laurence Rocke
President, IRFU Ulster Branch
7

Enniskillen soar to All-Ireland Men’s Junior Cup Final
Fermanagh side set for showdown with
Bective Rangers
Enniskillen RFC has secured their place
in the Energia All-Ireland Junior Cup final
after a convincing 56-26 victory over Tullow
RFC at Rathoe Road. This hard-fought win
propels the Fermanagh side to their second
All-Ireland Junior Cup final in two years.
The match was a thrilling encounter,
with Enniskillen demonstrating their
dominance from the outset. Tries from Niall
Keenan, Eddie Keys, George Foster (2),
Ben McLaren, Angus Keys, Sam Balfour,
and Harry Ingram, coupled with precise
conversions from Eddie Keys, sealed the
victory for the visitors.
In January 2023, Enniskillen lost out in
the all-Ulster final against Clogher Valley,
so will be looking to go one step further
this time around and bring the cup back
to Fermanagh.
The final will take place at Ashbourne
RFC on Saturday 25 January 2025, where
Enniskillen will face Bective Rangers. The
match will be streamed live by the IRFU,
allowing fans to witness the clash between
these two talented sides.
As Enniskillen prepares for the final
showdown, the club’s supporters are
eagerly anticipating a thrilling match
and hoping to see their team lift the
prestigious trophy.
Enniskillen’s head coach, Ali Keys, expressed
his delight at reaching the final:
“We’re thrilled to be back in the
All-Ireland Junior Cup final. It’s
a fantastic achievement for the
club, and we’re all incredibly
proud of the players’ hard work
and dedication.”
11

way over from a 5m penalty to give Ulster a
14-7 lead.
Ulster went into the half with a five point
lead to show for their efforts.
HT: ULS 19 - 14 BOR
In a second half that started off with a
number of scrums, Ulster competed well in
the set piece and it was a very tight affair
for the opening 15 minutes, with both sides
fighting for field position.
However, the French side started to gain
attacking momentum and turned the screw.
A clinical move involving their flying backs
saw Bielle-Biarrey find Damian Penaud on
his right wing, with the French international
stalwart running in for the score in the corner.
Referee, Gianluca Gnecchi, then awarded
the away side a penalty try after a lineout
maul in the Ulster 22. Ulster had looked to
initially hold the ball up from Lucu, but upon
review the penalty try was given and David
McCann was sent to the sin-bin for an illegal
collapse of the maul.
From there the French side continued to
hammer down the pressure. Penaud was at
the heart of things again, with a try assist
on the right flank for lock, Guido Petti, to
run in.
Last Time Out
Ulster suffered a disappointing 19-40 loss
at home to Top 14 side Bordeaux in their
Round 2 Investec Champions Cup fixture
at Kingspan Stadium last Saturday.
Despite a spirited performance that saw
the home side go into the break at halftime
after tries from Cormac Izuchukwu,
Nick Timoney, and Werner Kok, Ulster were
beaten by a clinical Bordeaux side that took
their opportunities in the second half.
Damian Penaud, Guido Petti, Louis Bielle-
Biarrey and Ugo Boniface were all on the
scoresheet for the French side who opened
up the margin in the second half.
Ulster captain Iain Henderson made his
50th European appearance for his province,
and there were debuts for Zac Ward on the
left wing and a debut for replacement fullback,
Rory Telfer.
Bordeaux started with intent, and made a
dream start to the match when Tatafu went
over from a lineout maul.
Ulster hit back soon after, with Stuart
McCloskey snatching a loose lineout
from the French visitors before Cormac
Izuchukwu dived over for a first try of the
match for the home side. Doak’s conversion
made it all square.
Ulster continued to show good attacking
intent and the away side started to tot up
the penalty count. Flanker, Marko Gazzotti,
was sent to the sin-bin for another penalty
and soon after, Nick Timoney powered his
The fourteen of Ulster surged into the
Bordeaux half and the away side recieved
two yellow cards in quick succession. First,
their loosehead prop, Jefferson Poirot, was
given a yellow for kicking the ball in a ruck
and a TMO check confirmed a dangerous
high tackle on Nick Timoney during the
attacking play.
Ulster used their advantage to grab a
score before the half was up, with Werner
Kok coming in-field from the right wing to
find space, before Stuart McCloskey found
him with a lovely pass. Kok fended off his
defender for an excellent score. It was a
first home try for the South African after his
summer move from Hollywoodbets Sharks.
Ulster tried to get front foot ball going, with
the energetic Zac Ward chasing down a kick
into the Bordeaux 22 to try and gain some
good field position.
In the phases after, the French side showed
their devastating quality, when Moefana,
sprinted into space and speedy wing, Louis
Bielle-Biarrey, was found in space to finish.
Replacement prop, Ugo Boniface, scored a
late sixth try from close range to seal the
victory and end a tough afternoon for Ulster,
who now face two BKT URC interprovincial
derbies against Munster and Connacht to
see out 2024.
Full-time: ULS 19 - 40 BOR
12
13

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Case Study
Become a ‘Friend of the Ulster Rugby
Foundation’
Sponsors of
Ulster Rugby’s
Foundation Day
2024
We’re proud to announce the launch of our
‘Friends of the Ulster Rugby Foundation’
regular giving campaign, an exciting
new fundraising initiative where you can
help make a lasting impact on our rugby
community. From as little as £5 per month,
you’ll join a special group of dedicated
individuals who are committed to fostering
the growth, development and inclusivity of
rugby across the province.
SIGN UP
Foundation Day 2024
The Ulster Rugby Foundation is proud to
welcome you to its inaugural Foundation Day
fixture, in partnership with PizzaExpress.
The event will be dedicated to supporting
the impactful work of the Ulster Rugby
Foundation - the charity arm of Ulster
Rugby - and will bring together fans, players,
and the community for a night of rugby
and fundraising. All proceeds will support
grassroots rugby programmes, community
outreach, and inclusive initiatives focused
on three key areas: Women & Girls’ rugby,
Disability rugby, and Youth rugby.
What’s on?
Exclusive Meet & Greet with Ulster Rugby
Players
Fans will have the unique opportunity to
meet some of their favourite Ulster players,
snap photos and get autographs at the
Foundation stand, situated in the Fan Zone.
Online Auction
Raffle
There are also fantastic prizes on offer
through our match night raffle, including
signed merchandise, hospitality prizes,
PizzaExpress vouchers and much more!
Raffle tickets cost £5 and can be purchased
from our friendly sellers throughout the
stadium. Prizes listed on the next page.
Draw will be at half-time and with winners
annouced via social media and on the big
screens.
Shauna Hanna (top middle)
How has rugby had a positive impact on
your life?
I find rugby has helped greatly with my
mental health. I would, and do, easily talk
myself out of doing things or going places
but if rugby is involved, I’m there. I rarely
miss anything rugby related. Whether its
training, matches, watching friends play,
helping around the club. Rugby has opened
many avenues for me and I have truly found
some of my closest friends from it. It has
kept me busy which in turn has helped my
mental health greatly.
WIN
1st prize:
Signed Ulster Rugby jersey
2nd prize: Signed Ulster Rugby ball
Pizza Express
1 of 14
Great Prizes
3rd prize: 2 x Spirit of ‘99 hospitality tickets for an upcoming game
4th prize: 2 x match tickets for Ulster v Exeter
“Here at PizzaExpress and Milano, our
communities are at the heart of what
we stand for, so we are proud to partner
with the Ulster Rugby Foundation to
support their mission to inspire lifelong
participation in rugby and create
lasting community impact. Join us on
Foundation Day as we support and
recognise local players, helping them
achieve the opportunities to unlock
their full potential, on and off the field.”
Clare Boyd, PizzaExpress &
Milano Territory Manager.
5th prize: Bottle of exclusive Ulster Rugby x Copeland Distillery Whiskey
6th prize: Player of the match award experience for either Zebre Parma or Stormers game
7th prize: 2 Course Meal for 2 incl a drink per person in PizzaExpress Victoria Square
Bid on exclusive Ulster Rugby and other
unique sporting merchandise, signed
memorabilia, and experience packages,
with proceeds going directly to support
the Foundation’s programmes. Bids close
at 10am on Saturday 21 December.
ONLINE AUCTION
Donation Opportunities
We’re inviting fans to ‘bring a pound to the
ground’ and contribute to the Foundation’s
work. Look out for our friendly staff and
volunteers around the stadium - they’ll be
collecting donations and handing out flags
and Santa hats at the Foundation stand.
8th prize: 2 Course Meal for 2 incl a drink per person in PizzaExpress Ballyhackamore
9th prize: 2 Course Meal for 2 incl a drink per person in PizzaExpress Lisburn Road
10th prize: 2 Course Meal for 2 incl a drink per person in PizzaExpress Bedford Street
11th prize: 2 Course Meal for 4 incl a drink per person in PizzaExpress Victoria Square
12th prize: 2 Course Meal for 4 incl a drink per person in PizzaExpress Ballyhackamore
13th prize: 2 Course Meal for 4 incl a drink per person in PizzaExpress Lisburn Road
14th prize: 2 Course Meal for 4 incl a drink per person in PizzaExpress Bedford Street
16
17

experience with the USRFR has been
a highlight of his journey. From fitness
preparation to mastering the laws of
the game, he worked hard to earn his
place in the Society.
Pride in the Jersey
When asked about receiving his
referee jersey, Jack describes it as a
moment of pride:
“After putting in the effort
on fitness, law knowledge,
and on-pitch performance,
it was a great feeling to
become a full member of
the Society. It’s rewarding to
now referee matches every
weekend on my own.”
Darryl O’Connor
A Global Rugby Journey
Darryl’s rugby story spans continents.
Starting with City of Derry RFC’s
“mighty 3rds,” he spent 15 years
teaching, coaching, and refereeing
in England and Abu Dhabi. In the
UAE, Darryl played in the Dubai 7s
against former internationals like
Aaron Persico and Aled Brew - an
experience he describes as “surreal
but unforgettable.”
Before returning to Ulster, Darryl
coached and refereed at Sherborne
School in Dorset, further developing
his skills.
Referees’ Corner
20
Tonight, we welcome Ben
Whitehouse (WRU) and his team
of officials to Kingspan Stadium
for the BKT United Rugby
Championship Inter-provincial
game against Munster. As always,
Ulster Rugby would like to remind
spectators to respect the decisions
of the match officials at all times.
Welcoming New Referees Jack
Coyle and Darryl O’Connor
This edition of Referee Corner
celebrates two of Ulster Society of
Rugby Football Referees (USRFR)
newest members, Jack Coyle and
Darryl O’Connor. With diverse
rugby journeys, both bring a
unique passion and commitment
to officiating in the province.
Jack Coyle
From Player to Referee
Jack’s rugby journey began at
Ballyclare RFC, where he followed
in his father’s footsteps. He honed
his skills at Belfast Royal Academy
(BRA), captaining the 2XV, before
joining Academy RFC alongside
his schoolmates. However, injuries
in his first senior season led him
to explore refereeing—a path he’d
always been interested in.
Joining the USRFR
“The feeling when I was allowed
to referee my first game was
special,” Jack reflects. “I received
great feedback and advice from
my mentor, which really boosted
my confidence.”
Jack’s induction and training
Joining the USRFR
For Darryl, the Trainee Referee
programme was about more than just
training; it was about camaraderie.
“Meeting my fellow New Referees at
Newforge and hearing the craic from
them, Lee, and Richard made the
whole experience enjoyable. Their
rich stories and insights have been
invaluable.”
Darryl has already officiated games
across the province, from U14s to

senior 2nd XVs, and is grateful
for feedback from experienced
evaluators like Peter Ferguson, Colin
McCandless, and John Devlin, which
has sharpened his skills.
Proud to Represent
Receiving the referee jersey, tie, and
pin was a proud moment for Darryl.
He recalls the excitement of students
at St Columb’s College, where he
teaches, spotting the USRFR logo
on his tie:
Inspired to Get Involved?
The USRFR is always looking for new
members. Whether you’re a player,
coach, or someone interested in a
new rugby challenge, refereeing
could be your next step. Get in touch
to learn more!
Catch more insights from the
refereeing community in upcoming
editions of Referee Corner!
“They’re always asking if I’m refereeing
their games soon - it’s great to see
that interest!”
Darryl is now looking forward to
officiating his first school match in
Ulster this weekend - a Medallion game
- and continuing his development as
a referee.
22
Looking Ahead
Both Jack and Darryl embody the
dedication and enthusiasm that the
USRFR prides itself on. With strong
starts to their refereeing careers, they
are sure to inspire others to pick up
the whistle.
As Referee Development Manager
Richard Kerr explains:
“Referees like Jack and
Darryl demonstrate how
rewarding this role can
be. Their willingness to
learn, adapt, and give back
to the game makes them
invaluable members of the
refereeing family. Coaches
and evaluators will continue
to support them on their
journey, ensuring they
thrive in this challenging
but fulfilling role.”
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

ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Hooker
26/05/1993
180cm
104kg
126
-
John
Andrew
Wing
19/08/1997
193cm
96kg
69
4
Rob
Baloucoune
Centre
24/02/2002
183cm
98kg
7
-
Ben
Carson
Scrum Half
01/05/1990
178cm
86kg
146
11
John
Cooney
Back Row
28/01/2002
188cm
102kg
5
-
Reuben
Crothers
Scrum Half
17/12/2001
185cm
86kg
76
-
Nathan
Doak
Fly Half
07/06/1999
183cm
93kg
15
-
Jake
Flannery
Hooker
27/04/1990
185cm
106kg
243
40
Reuben
Crothers
Rob
Herring
Centre
07/09/1998
188cm
100kg
95
3
James
Hume
Fly Half
14/11/2001
185cm
83kg
4
-
James
Humphreys
Lock
28/01/2000
201cm
118kg
34
1
Cormac
Izuchukwu
Wing
17/01/1993
180cm
96kg
8
Reuben
Crothers
Werner
Kok
Full Back
20/08/1998
170cm
78kg
112
1
Michael
Lowry
Back Row
13/06/2000
193cm
110kg
54
-
David
McCann
Back Row
28/01/2002
188cm
102kg
5
-
Reuben
Crothers
Prop
13/06/1998
177cm
120kg
5
Corrie
Barrett
Lock
21/02/1992
199cm
119kg
159
85
Iain
Henderson
Centre
06/08/1992
193cm
112kg
194
19
Stuart
McCloskey
ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Hooker
08/01/2002
183cm
107kg
8
-
James
McCormick
Scrum Half
24/06/1999
178cm
87kg
1
-
Michael
McDonald
Back Row
28/02/2003
194cm
116kg
8
-
James
McNabney
Wing
10/08/2000
188cm
90kg
67
-
Ethan
McIlroy
Scrum Half
03/04/2002
189cm
109kg
-
-
Lorcan
McLoughlin
Scrum Half
20/03/2001
183cm
86kg
-
-
Conor
McKee
Utility Back
08/08/1999
184cm
93kg
73
-
Stewart
Moore
Wing
09/06/2001
191cm
101kg
33
-
Ben
Moxham
Fly Half
07/06/2001
172cm
82kg
9
-
Aidan
Morgan
Lock
10/09/1992
196cm
115kg
202
-
Alan
O’Connor
Prop
30/11/1995
183cm
118kg
123
1
Eric
O’Sullivan
Centre
03/04/2002
193cm
106kg
18
-
Jude
Postlethwaite
Prop
23/09/1998
184cm
120kg
114
17
Tom
O’Toole
Back Row
08/09/1997
188cm
110kg
53
-
Marcus
Rea
Prop
23/10/1998
188cm
124kg
-
-
Bryan
O’Connor
25
24

ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Back Row
21/09/1993
193cm
114kg
103
-
Back Row
21/09/2001
195cm
121kg
34
-
Matty
Rea
Reuben Harry
Sheridan Crothers
Back Row
04/11/1998
180cm
102kg
11
-
Sean
Reffell
Tom
Stewart
Hooker
11/01/2001
183cm
105kg
47
2
Prop
06/01/1999
183cm
116.5kg
20
-
Callum
Reid
Jacob
Stockdale
Wing
03/04/1996
191cm
104kg
125
38
Dave
Shanahan
Scrum Half
20/06/1993
175cm
77kg
96
-
Nick
Timoney
Back Row
01/08/1995
188cm
112kg
154
3
Reuben Kieran
Treadwell Crothers
Zac
Ward
Andrew
Warwick
Scott
Wilson
Lock
06/11/1995
198cm
118kg
166
11
Utility Back
11/12/1998
191cm
101kg
1
-
Prop
12/03/1991
178cm
115kg
203
-
Prop
06/08/2002
186cm
125kg
21
-
A WARM WELCOME TO OUR GROUP BOOKINGS
Bleary Young Farmers
Rainey RFC
Ballymoney RFC
Rathfriland Young Farmers
Ballywalter Young Farmers
Ballymoney Youth Girls
26
Letterkenny RFC

ULSTER RUGBY ACADEMY
The latest batch of young talent reinforces
the province’s focus on developing
prospects to progress into the pro team.
This year’s academy sees the largest number
of players in over five years, with 20 young
players now in the ranks.
Sam
Berman
Jack
Boal
Jacob
Boyd
Tom
Brigg
Wilhelm
De Klerk
Centre
Prop
Prop
Back Row
Centre
16/01/2004
01/05/2003
10/07/2004
26/06/2004
16/08/2004
183cm
187cm
186cm
189cm
180cm
93kg
117kg
114kg
111kg
90kg
-
-
-
-
-
Cameron
Doak
Ethan
Graham
Joe
Hopes
Charlie
Irvine
Lukas
Kenny
Prop
Wing/Fullback
Lock
Lock
Wing/Fullback
17/12/2003
27/04/2004
16/03/2004
28/01/2003
08/09/2004
190cm
181cm
201cm
203cm
185cm
127kg
88kg
115kg
117kg
100kg
-
-
1
1
-
Clark
Logan
Ben
McFarlane
James
McKillop
Jack
Murphy
Jonny
Scott
Scrum Half
Wing /Fullback
Back Row
Fly Half
Centre
11/08/2005
04/10/2004
15/12/2004
15/07/2004
15/08/2005
176cm
174cm
197cm
177cm
191cm
78kg
77kg
112kg
83kg
99kg
-
-
-
-
-
Zac
Solomon
Josh
Stevens
Rory
Telfer
Henry
Walker
Bryn
Ward
Hooker
Back Row
Wing /Fullback
Hooker
Back Row
17/06/2004
14/12/2004
29/08/2003
01/01/2003
17/07/2004
177cm
178cm
184cm
187cm
185cm
100kg
101kg
90kg
105kg
115kg
1
-
1
-
-
28
ulster.rugby/buytickets 29

Half-Time
Exhibition Games
NEVIN SPENCE MEMORIAL STAND END ABBEYAUTOLINE FAMILY STAND END
Armagh
Kit: Black / Red
1 Brogan Bowes
2 Alfie Bell
3 Markuss Prusaks
4 Oisin McCooey
5 Ryan Sands
6 Harry Halligan
7 Joel McCormick
8 Oliver McCormick
9 Finn Scallon
10 Patrick Harney
11 Jack Paisley
12 Dylan Coppard
Clogher Valley
Kit: Green / Navy
1 Harry Knox
2 Adam Curry
3 Joshua Bennett
4 Alfie MacCombe
5 Thomas Ligett
6 George Irvine
7 Bella McKeown
8 Tom Beatty
9 Annabelle McCormick
10 Lucy Little
11 William Hunter
12 Issac Harper
Bangor
Kit: Blue / Yellow
1 Tom Foulkes
2 George Armstrong
3 Freddie Moore
4 Grayson Todd
5 Lochlainn Canning
6 Adam Downey
7 Mason Ruston
8 Ben Laffin
9 Louie Byers
10 Sonny Bryans
11 Spencer Fawcett
12 Isaac Clarke
Strabane
Kit: Red / Black / Yellow
1 Josh Mitchell
2 Adam McHugh
3 Luke Hamilton
4 Will Hempton
5 Tom Freeburn
6 Reuben Throne
7 Matthew Forbes
8 Ethan Young
9 Nevin Patrick
10 Scott Linton
11 Jake Bennet
12 Jessica Britton
31

1
2
3
1
2
3
Andrew Warwick
Rob HERRING
Tom O’TOOLE
John RYAN
Niall SCANNELL
Stephen ARCHER
4
5
4
5
C
Alan O’CONNOR
Kieran TREADWELL
Tom AHERN
Fineen WYCHERLEY
6
8
7
6
8
7
C
James McNABNEY
David McCANN
Marcus REA
Jack O’DONOGHUE
Gavin COOMBES
John HODNETT
9
9
John COONEY
Paddy PATTERSON
10
10
11
Aidan MORGAN
11
Jack CROWLEY
Zac WARD
12
Shane DALY
12
Stuart McCLOSKEY
Alex NANKIVELL
Replacements
13
Replacements
13
16 John ANDREW
16 Eoghan CLARKE
17 Eric O’SULLIVAN
Jude POSTLETHWAITE
17 Dave KILCOYNE
Tom FARRELL
18 Scott WILSON
18 Oli JAGER
19 Harry SHERIDAN
14
19 Evan O’CONNELL
14
20 Matty REA
21 Dave SHANAHAN
15
Werner KOK
20 Alex KENDELLEN
21 Ethan COUGHLAN
15
Calvin NASH
22 Jack MURPHY
22 Rory SCANNELL
23 Rory TELFER
Michael LOWRY
23 Brian GLEESON
Mike HALEY
34
Referee: Ben Whitehouse
Assistant Refs: Andrew Cole & Sam Holt TMO: Aled Griffiths
35

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Ambitious
Target
Areas
Energy,
Carbon,
Circularity,
Water
4
Kingspan’s Commitment
to Sustainability
Zero
Company
waste to
landfill
by 2030
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Five
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ECOALF, Seabin,
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to date
5
100million
Litres of rainwater
harvested
by 2030
100m
One Legacy
Leaving the planet
in a better place
through our Planet
Passionate
communities
projects 1

MUNSTER
NAME POSITION DOB HEIGHT WEIGHT
ABRAHAMS Thaakir Wing/Fullback 10/01/1999 1.75m 78kg
AHERN Tom Lock 22/02/2000 2.03m 119kg
ARCHER Stephen Prop 29/01/1988 1.88m 118kg
Graham Rowntree resigned as head
coach of Munster Rugby back in October,
by mutual agreement with the club and
the IRFU. Head of Rugby Operations Ian
Costello has taken over in the Interim.
Recent results
CAS 16 - 14 MUN
MUN 33 - 7 STA
MUN 17 - 10 LIO
PLAYERS TO WATCH
John Hodnett
Double-try-scorer last week in their game
against Castres, Hodnett put in an impressive
shift in the back row. His first try was
particularly impressive, showing a display of
speed and power as he broke off from the
Munster maul, pushing his way through four
defenders before touching down.
Still only 25-years-old, the Cork native weighs
in at well over 16st, and has been a great
asset for his province with his strength and
explosiveness.
New Arrivals:
• Thaakir Abrahams (Lyon)
• Billy Burns (Ulster)
• Tom Farrell (Connacht)
• Bryan Fitzgerald (Garryowen)
• Diarmuid Kilgallen (Connacht)
BARRON Diarmuid Hooker 06/08/1998 1.83m 107kg
BEIRNE Tadhg Lock 08/01/1992 1.95m 117kg
BUCKLEY Scott Hooker 13/06/2000 1.78m 104kg
BURNS Billy Fly-half 13/06/1994 1.85m 90kg
BUTLER Tony Fly-half 23/04/2002 1.83m 89kg
CAMPBELL Patrick Full-back/Wing 22/07/2002 1.78m 89kg
CASEY Craig Scrum-half 19/04/1999 1.65m 78kg
CLARKE Eoghan Hooker 12/06/1998 1.83m 111kg
COOMBES Gavin Back Row 11/12/1997 1.93m 117kg
COOMBES Liam Full-back/Wing 01/05/1997 1.9m 101kg
COUGHLAN Ethan Scrum-half 13/04/2002 1.75m 81kg
CROWLEY Jack Fly-half 13/01/2000 1.83m 93kg
DALY Jack Back Row 12/08/1998 1.83m 106kg
DALY Shane W/FB 19/12/1996 1.9m 99kg
DONNELLY Mark Prop 14/03/2001 1.8m 112kg
EDOGBO Edwin Lock 21/12/2002 1.95m 127kg
FARRELL Tom Centre 01/10/1993 1.88m 103kg
FITZGERALD Bryan Centre 11/12/1998 1.8m 101kg
GLEESON Brian Back Row 05/02/2004 1.8m 116kg
HALEY Mike W/FB 28/06/1994 1.9m 96kg
HODNETT John Back Row 10/01/1999 1.8m 103kg
HURLEY Cian Lock 25/04/2000 1.95m 112kg
JAGER Oli Prop 05/07/1995 1.93m 130kg
KENDELLEN Alex Back Row 03/03/2001 1.85m 105kg
KILCOYNE Dave Prop 14/12/1988 1.8m 107kg
PREVIOUS
MEETINGS
JUN
2024
MUN 29
ULS 24
NOV
2023
ULS 21
MUN 14
JAN
2023
ULS 14
MUN 15
KILGALLEN Diarmuid Wing/Full-back 03/08/2000 1.93m 96kg
KLEYN Jean Lock 26/08/1993 2.03m 122kg
LOUGHMAN Jeremy Prop 22/07/1995 1.83m 118kg
MURRAY Conor Scrum-half 20/04/1989 1.88m 95kg
Jack Crowley
The 24-year-old is a nailed on starter in the
Munster ten jersey, and has been given the
nod in the green ten jersey for some huge
matches in 2024, playing every match as
Ireland won the 2024 Guinness Six Nations.
Crowley is a good leader of the attack, with
his speed of pass and line breaking runs
both big strengths. Crowley is also a reliable
goal-kicker, making him a very well-rounded
fly-half.
NANKIVELL Alex Centre 25/10/1996 1.88m 101kg
NASH Calvin Wing/Full-back 08/08/1997 1.78m 93kg
O'BRIEN Sean Centre 12/05/1998 1.88m 105kg
O'DONOGHUE Jack Back Row 08/02/1994 1.93m 112kg
O'MAHONY Peter Back Row 17/09/1989 1.9m 108kg
PATTERSON Paddy Scrum-half 30/11/1998 1.7m 78kg
RYAN John Prop 02/08/1988 1.83m 119kg
SALANOA Roman Prop 28/10/1997 1.83m 123kg
SCANNELL Niall Hooker 08/04/1992 1.85m 110kg
SCANNELL Rory Centre 22/12/1993 1.78m 99kg
WYCHERLEY Fineen Lock 11/12/1997 1.95m 116kg
WYCHERLEY Josh Prop 22/07/1999 1.83m 113kg
38
39

TRAINING
40
41

AND NOW FOR
SOMETHING
DIFFERENT!
Guest Article
by Rod Nawn
who’d been on the coaching ticket since
2019.
Ian Costello has been interim Head Coach
since then as speculation abounds as to
a permanent appointment. Leading the
field, it appears, are two former Munster
players.
Mike Prendergast has honed his coaching
skills successfully in the Top 14 and is
currently the province’s attack coach
and most bookies’ favourite to inherit the
crown. But into the frame over the weekend
came Felix Jones, finally terminating a
messy divorce from his senior assistant
coaching role with England. With his
global reputation, Jones will be on the
radar of clubs worldwide – England will
not allow him a position with a major Test
nation – and a return to Limerick would
fit the eye.
his selection of an unfamiliar fifteen at
Castres was made with an eye on this
evening’s game and entering 2025 with
improved URC league table standing.
Jack Crowley, until the autumnal explosion
of Sam Prendergast, was favourite to
step into the boots of Johnny Sexton
with Ireland and he’ll want to make up
for a mixed display in France with an
authoritative performance at Kingspan
Stadium.
It is indeed a key URC game, but inter-pros
always have a special ‘edge’ and often
what appears to be a formbook goes out
the window. With quite so much at stake
for teams in need of a leap up the table,
supporters can never be sure what they
will be presented with on the pitch.
Will attacking abandon be the messages
in each dressing room? Hardly. Will ‘hold
on to what you’ve got’ be the last words
the players hear as they tramp out onto
the pitch? No.
42
‘Tis the Friday night before Christmas,
and festive rugby cheer is all around!
Well, that might be a little overstating the
mood in both the Ulster and Munster camps
as they prepare to do battle this evening
under the Kingspan Stadium lights.
The atmosphere will certainly be
crackling, the Christmas spirit evident
in many a hand outside and inside the
stadium’s refreshment areas, but each
side has serious business to address as
the BKT United Rugby Championship
resumes. And it’s an inter-provincial clash,
a contest which has many a collective
and individual consequence in the battle
for honours and for international places.
It is just a week on from damaging defeats
in the Investec Champions Cup, and each
team are currently outside the critical top
eight positions which, by May, will decide
both league play-off places and top-tier
European qualification for next season.
Munster’s 16-14 reverse last Friday in
Castres was in stark contrast to its 33-7
thumping of Stade Francais at Thomond
Park the previous weekend.
Ulster’s experience was, in scale and
prospects, much more challenging, with
back-to-back defeats against the two
sides occupying the top spots in the
French Top 14; firstly away in Toulouse
then in Belfast against Bordeaux-Bègles
last Saturday afternoon.
Ulster is clearly a team in transition and
employing a different and more flexible
style, one which in moments is enterprising
and attractive but lacks consistency as
a new Head Coach tests each and every
member of his squad to expand and
improve his playing resources.
Munster, having won the URC title in 2023
under Graham Rowntree in his first season
as Head Coach, and finishing top of the
table last term under his stewardship, at
the end of October this year surprisingly
parted company in with the Englishman
But away from the internal politics in
Munster, the side has important URC
targets to reach if it is to retain its notional
position as one of the European titans.
Outside the Rowntree-led URC success, it
is quite remarkable that no other title has
been secured in 12 years, something of a
decline from its years at the top of Europe.
It retains an impressive playing group
though, but this weekend may be without
Ireland scrum-half Craig Casey, prop Dian
Bleuler and Peter O’Mahony in what will
be a much stronger team than Costello
fielded in France. Gavin Coombes, the
ball-carrying giant, seems certain to start
and the Head Coach has publicly admitted
The mantras will be to get the basics
right, make good decisions, be clinical
and resilient. And, in Ulster’s case, be the
80-minute side skipper Iain Henderson
properly said it must be to succeed. That
the captain may miss out through injury
again is far more than disappointing. His
fiercely competitive, reassuring leadership
until his departure against Bordeaux yet
another masterclass in skilled physicality
and tactical nous.
Fit and healthy panels are vital at any
stage of the season but at this hectic
festive period that becomes even more
important, as the Ulster physios can
already attest to. The opposition in the
next week sees Ulster face Munster and
then Connacht in Galway tomorrow week,
so the physical demands of those games
will inevitably be demanding. Then, in
the New Year, the Champions Cup series
resumes at Leicester before the arrival of
Exeter the following week. Intense fixtures
which usually provide some indications of
what realistic hopes the side has in 2025.
Richie Murphy is a shrewd rugby coach,
and he will plan as well as he can to
prioritise those games, and those targets,
his team must see as eminently winnable
and where innovative tactics and inventive
selection might cause the upsets usually
needed to secure a high league finish and
43

a creditable European campaign.
As we look back on his time in charge,
which is still in its infancy, Murphy has
certainly transformed the mood on and
off the pitch. The turbulence of the later
stages of Dan McFarland’s reign, and the
exit of the chief executive Johhny Petrie,
has given way to, yes, more financially
constrained times but to more optimism.
In player terms it has already meant
more Ulster representation in Emerging
Ireland and full international squads after
a period when the Province was far from
the production line it had been once.
Tom Stewart, Cormac Izuchukwu and
Tom O’Toole are examples of youngsters
staking real claims for the long term,
while Henderson, the priceless Stuart
McCloskey, Rob Herring, Timoney and
Jacob Stockdale are firmly on the national
coaches’ radar.
of the supporters who find a game under
the lights a party setting for the days
to come.
Both teams will see this as a night to
make a statement in the URC, and
though the players will be cautioned
not to be generous with ‘presents’ to
their opponents, Christmas and 2025
will beckon more happily with a success
this evening.
To the players, management, and staff
at HQ, and particularly to the supporters
who have ‘kept the faith’, may you all have
a merry time this Christmas and a New
Year filled with potential realised!
Michael Lowry has tasted life in green,
Nathan Doak has been called into squads,
and Kieran Treadwell is a lock forward
perhaps more highly rated by Irish fans
than in his own parish.
John Cooney, of course, is a scrumhalf of
international class and a valued member
of the current Ulster group, and it would
be appropriate if his return to fitness after
being injured against Leinster coincided
with another match winning display
against Munster.
The festive season always offers up
rugby clashes to relish, always intriguing
and passionate, a reflection of the fervour
44

Zac Ward
After it was confirmed that Zac Ward has
signed a three-year deal at Ulster Rugby
after a successful trial period, the former
Ireland Sevens star tells us about making
the transition to the XVs game, signing
his new deal and his ambitions for the
years to come in the white jersey.
After impressing in his maiden outing in
an Ulster jersey against Bordeaux last
weekend in the Investec Champions
Cup, Ward’s contract was announced
this week by the province, something
that he describes as a ‘dream come true.’
“It’s phenomenal. It’s been
a goal of mine since I was a
young kid so to call myself an
Ulster player. I can’t wait to get
my teeth into it and develop
over the next couple of years,
and help get the team back
to where we know we can get
to and where the fans expect
us to be.”
That dream is now a reality for the 26-yearold,
who at one point was weighing up
his career options with a route into Ulster
looking unlikely.
“Through school, my goal was to get
into the Academy but when that wasn’t
an option, I never gave up and always
kept that goal of playing for Ulster.
When I had the opportunity to play
Sevens, I thought, why not? It’s not like
there were a pile of other options and
it turned out to be the best decision
I ever made. If it wasn’t for Sevens I
wouldn’t be where I am now.”
After studying Sports and Exercise
Science, Ward was looking at chasing a
career in the teaching profession, before
the Sevens adventure took centre stage.
“Travelling around the world playing
Sevens was incredible and I loved it but
I thought, I’m not sure if I could do this
for a career in the long-term, so when the
opportunity came up to trial at Ulster, I
knew it was a great opportunity.”
After joining up with the team in early
September, Ward set about transferring
the skills he built in Sevens and after a
chat with Head Coach, Richie Murphy, set
about work on his switch to play in the
back-field as a wing.
“The skills you learn in Sevens have
came with me in terms of trying to beat
defenders and things like that.
When I went into the Sevens, I was about
110kg, which was heavy for Sevens, but
what I needed to be for XVs as a back
rower for Ballynahinch RFC. When I knew
I would be doing Sevens more long term
I had to lose 6 or 7kg just to play!
“I think that helped me get quicker and
47

fitter. Now in the XVs as a winger, one of
the first things I asked Richie was – ‘do I
need to lose more weight?’ He said no,
and that if it worked for you in sevens, it
could work for you in XVs. There are a few
things to adjust but I felt good physically.”
One of those adjustments is the craft of
kicking, something that Ward has leaned
on current Ulster players for.
“Richie is a big help with his past as a
kicking coach, but Mikey (Lowry) and
Jacob (Stockdale) have been helping
me with the kicking, Mikey more with
long kicks downfield and Jacob with the
subtle chips over the top which are a
big strength of his game. Hopefully I can
develop them as I go on.”
Ward’s signing continues a family
connection with the province, with Zac’s
father, Andy, having been an important
part of the Ulster side who won the 1999
European Cup victory and his younger
brother, Bryn, currently going through his
first year in the Ulster Rugby Academy.
For Zac, that connection is special and the
ambition to play alongside his younger
sibling on the field is another goal for the
Ward family.
“Bryn and I had never played together
or trained together, so that’s something I
always wanted to do! Growing up Ulster
has been in our DNA so we both always
strived to play one day. It was special to
make my debut at home and my mum
was there, she was very proud.”
Tonight’s fixture against Munster, offers
Ward an opportunity to experience his
first interprovincial derby, something he
is extremely excited to take on.
“Any interpro has that extra emotion in
the air and is feisty. I am looking forward
to getting stuck in and seeing what it’s
all about.”
The final home game of the year will be
Ulster’s penultimate game of 2024, with
an away trip to Connacht before the year
is over.
For the Ballynahinch man, it’s been a year
that has flew by.
“It will be hard to top this year! From
getting in to play in Perth at the start of
the year, to playing in the Olympic games
and now signing with my boyhood club
– a dream come true and it’s been a
rollercoaster year for me. I don’t want it
to end but a home game against Munster
at Kingspan Stadium is pretty special.”
And top of his Christmas list?
Booking a tattoo artist to leave a
permanent reminder of his Olympic
Games experience with the traditional
rings inkwork.
“I was actually meant to get it done in
early September but I had to come in
for my first day of pre-season! I had to
cancel but it’s on the agenda. I’m looking
for somewhere to get it done but I’d like
it on the back of my arm.”
48
49

Spot the Difference
Can you spot the 5 differences?
50
ANSWERS: Bordeaux defender’s number, Bodeaux defender’s wrist tape, Zac’s foot, Jude’s sock, Jude’s head tape.

“That didn’t help us in our first match. We
were 30 odd points up at half time and lost
by six points, that was the start of the trip.
“Their brand of rugby was very impressive.
We learned very quickly no matter who you
tackled, the ball would end up out on the
wing. The Australian way was to keep the
ball alive and attack, it was pretty exciting.
“It was a harsh tour. We played six very hard
matches but the hospitality was great at the
university of New South Wales, and there are
many stories of incidents of great fun.
“Rugby was an amateur game in those days,
and we made the most of it, being from
Ireland, the Australians took to us quite well.
unfortunately we got beaten.
“We went into Port Hacking, where they
entertained us with a massive beach party
and two of the guys got into scuba gear and
came back with a load of lobsters, so we
were sitting eating them on the beach.
“All in all, the rugby was great, it was very
hard, we learnt a lot and played some good
rugby, but we were exposed, the Wallabies
came over and showed us in the northern
hemisphere that we were behind the pace.
“A lot of guys picked up on that and Phil
Matthews who was our No8 went on to be
Ireland captain, we had a great time, and
they were great guys.
52
Forty years on, Queen’s University rugby
pals recall Australian tour ‘odyssey’
Forty years ago, a Queen’s University rugby
team toured Australia, leaving an indelible
mark on both the pitch and the hearts of
those involved. While the matches were
undoubtedly memorable, it was the shared
experiences, camaraderie, and lifelong
friendships forged Down Under that truly
defined the tour.
The majority of the team met up recently
for a weekend of celebration including
attending the Ulster v Leinster match and a
lunch at the Dub to swap stories. The opening
paragraph in the souvenir booklet printed to
commemorate their exploits states,
“In the summer of 1984, 25 men
stepped forward to undertake a
highly dangerous mission. For
reasons still unclear to this day
they decided to fly to the other
side of the world to tackle the
might of southern hemisphere
rugby.”
The Belfast students certainly faced the
might of the southern hemisphere. In
a game against Sydney Universities, a
certain Nick Farr-Jones was playing for
the host team. Seven years later the scrum
half would go on to captain the Wallabies
to their first World Cup success, beating
England at Twickenham.
The tourists had future Ireland captain and
British Lion, Phil Matthews and current Ulster
CEO Hugh McCaughey amongst their ranks.
Before Queen’s took on Nick Farr Jones and
his colleagues, simply getting to Australia
proved to be an adventure as hooker,
Stephen Scott explained.
“It is hard to believe that 40 years has
passed since we headed off in 1984 on a
certain odyssey as some of us still refer to
it” recalled Scott.
“We were a university and didn’t have much
money, we had to raise it. The tour company
got us on this Indonesian airline called
Garuda, and we basically landed anywhere
these guys could see.
“We had various stop over Frankfurt, Dubai –
it took us nearly 36 hours to get to Australia.
“We arrived in Australia and the itinerary was
a bit trying, we arrived in Sydney, checked
into our hotel and immediately had a training
session after travelling for 36 hours.
“There was a hill up to the hotel and
prop, David Elliott got a taxi back, so that
summed up our fitness because we were
absolutely knackered.
“We then went to see Australia against New
Zealand in the Bledisloe Cup at Sydney
Cricket Ground.
“The social activities took off even more
when we went up to Queensland. They had
played us in Belfast the year before, and
we knew a lot of the guys quite well. We
lost narrowly to them, and then we played
Australian Universities.
“One local newspaper promoted the game
with the headline, ‘Queen’s University Belfast
looking for their first win not surprising as
their tour has been one hectic round of social
events and parties.’
“We gave Australia Universities a good
game but came second. The tour organisers
excelled again, as somebody thought it a
good idea to take an 11-hour bus trip from
Brisbane to Newcastle. We played a match
there, and despite the travel, did well.
“We played Sydney University and came up
against several Wallabies, including the great
Nick Farr-Jones who rivalled our scrum half
Rob Brady.
“We played on a pitch that was like a brick
and 27 degrees. It was very enjoyable but
FRI 7 FEB, 7.35PM
“Queensland University toured and played
Queen’s 1XV, 2XV and U20s, then Australian
Universities came over and we played them
under the lights at Ravenhill.”
“We had some good players, Davy Elliot
went on to play for Ulster, Rob Brady was
Ulster scrum half, Big Phil and David Marrs
got some Ulster caps.
“Hugh McCaughey has gone on and we wish
him the best of luck at Ulster Rugby, we want
him to do well, he has a big job on his hands
and we’re 100% behind him.”
It may have been 40 years ago but when the
boys in Royal Blue get together and it seems
like yesterday.
Forty years on, we will be welcoming the
Queensland Reds to Kingspan Stadium. As
part of our centenary celebrations, Ulster
will play host to the Australian Super Rugby
side at on Friday 7 February 2025. Get your
ticket now! (link below)
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53

GUESS WHO?
Can you name the 4 players?
56
Top to Bottom: Nathan Doak, Eric O’Sullivan, Jake Flannery, Nick Timoney,

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Favourite Ulster player of all time?
Charles piutau
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James McCormick
Any habits or rituals before a game?
Say a prayer, eat and sleep plenty!
Apart from rugby, what other sports
do you like?
Equestrian (mainly mounted games).
I used to ride horses to a high
level, representing Northern Ireland
and Great Britain.
If you didn’t play rugby for a living,
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I’d farm at home with my Dad
Favourite kit this season and why?
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White, because I haven’t played in
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the black does look very fresh.
Best thing about being a professional
rugby player?
Getting to play rugby for a living.
Favourite away ground?
The Rec, Bath Rugby
Most intimidating opponent?
Viliame Mata
Which team-mate did you meet
earliest in life and where was it?
Played against James McCormick
when I was 3rd year playing up for
the medallions.
59

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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
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#evYuMr
PROUD TITLE SPONSOR OF THE
BKT UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
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“School rugby helps boys and girls develop
integrity, passion, solidarity, discipline and
respect, all values in line with the pillars of
world rugby, so a huge thanks to everyone
involved who helps to make the matches
happen.”
In addition, Richard drew attention to the
importance of Ulster Rugby and the IRFU’s
initiative Respect Our Game, highlighting that
respect for players, officials and volunteers
is the cornerstone of this experience and
key to upholding the values of sport.
“I encourage everyone present here today
along with your fellow players and coaches
back in your schools to regularly and openly
promote Ulster Rugby’s respect agenda.”
Andrew Sproule, Senior Project Manager
Change Management, at Danske Bank also
said a few words.
Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup | Round of 16 Draw
Current Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup title
holders, Royal Belfast Academical Institution,
have drawn Belfast rivals Campbell College
for the second year in a row at the last 16
stage, in what was the pick of the ties from
today’s event at Kingspan Stadium.
The 2024/25 campaign of the famous
competition is a significant one, with
several key milestones being celebrated.
Competition sponsors, Danske Bank, are
celebrating their 200thyear supporting
people, businesses, and society to thrive. It
is also their 20th year supporting schools’
rugby, a competition steeped in history that
dates all the way back to 1876. The Ulster
Schools’ Cup has been played at the home
of Ulster Rugby since the Ravenhill ground
opened in 1924, marking its 100th year at
the stadium this year.
“School rugby helps boys to
develop integrity, passion,
solidarity, discipline and respect,
all values in line with the pillars
of world rugby, so a huge thanks
to everyone involved who helps
to make the matches happen.”
He also gave an honourable mention and
thanks to Barney McGonigle, our Schools’
Rugby PRO.
“We’re excited for another year of sponsoring
the Schools’ Cup tournament. At Danske
Bank we’re passionate about supporting
our local society to thrive, and sponsoring
local youth sport is a really important part of
that. Not only do these tournaments teach
great discipline and nurture fantastic talent,
but they create lasting friendships. I have
extremely fond memories and friends from
my own Schools’ Cup win with Methody in
2006. From all of us at Danske Bank, we
wish you all the very best of luck.”
Commenting at the event, Ulster Schools’
Committee Chairman, Richard Clingan
thanked all involved in the organising of the
competition, Danske Bank for their continued
support, and all the coaching staff, teachers
and boards of governors for everything they
do to support schools’ rugby.
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Ulster Rugby and principal sponsor, Kingspan, are proud to highlight the
importance of sustainability with a special edition jersey for this Friday’s
BKT United Rugby Championship clash with Munster at Kingspan Stadium.
To be in with a chance of winning one of these unique player-worn signed jerseys,
follow the link below and complete the entry form by Sunday 22 December.
WIN A PLANET PASSIONATE SIGNED MATCH JERSEY
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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
Audio
Domestic Sponsors
Foundation Day Partner
The Food Village will be in operation,
serving a variety of cuisines, while the
Cool FM Crew will provide the soundtrack
for the evening.
Audio descriptive match commentary to
enhance the match experience for people
affected by sight or hearing loss will be
available.
Five indoor public bars and one outdoor
bar 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.
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.
Official Partners
Live music will be available pre & post-match in the Clubhouse Bar
Respect
Policy
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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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2024/25
FIXTURES
SCAN &
SYNC TO
YOUR
CALENDAR!
ulster.rugby
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