BKT-URC_Match-Programme-Ulster-v-HollywoodBets-Sharks

Official Match Day Programme
ULSTER
HOLLYWOODBETS
SHARKS
Sat 26 Apr, 7.35pm
Kingspan Stadium

CONTENTS
05 Mascots
07 President’s
Welcome
12
Last Time Out
Leinster v Ulster
18
16
Thank You
Ulstermen
18 Referees’
Corner
28
Jack Murphy
Interview
28
31
Spot the
Difference
#evYuMr
33 Half-Time
Exhibition Games
40
36 Teams
40
44
Sharks Players
to Watch
Guest Article
PROUD TITLE SPONSOR OF THE
BKT UNITED RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP
48
52
59
End of Season
Awards
In Memoriam
Andrew Warwick
Q&A
62
62
Ulster Stars Shine
at U18 6Nations
3

MASCOTS
Name: Conn Miller
Age: 8
From: Dundonald
I can’t wait for Saturday. I love going to
Ulster games and hearing the noise of
the crowd.
I play mini rugby at school, and used to
play at Malone RFC.
My favourite player is Werner Kok.
I think he looks like a Gladiator!
KINGSPAN WELCOME
Name: Frankie Orr
Age: 10
From: Carrickfergus
Chosen by Kingspan, Frankie was
selected by the Youth Engagement
Team at Cancer Fun for Children.
Welcome to Kingspan Stadium for
another exciting Saturday night as
Ulster Rugby takes on the
Hollywoodbets Sharks in a pivotal
Round 16 clash of the 2025 United
Rugby Championship. With both teams
battling for crucial points in the race
for playoff positions, tonight promises
an intense contest between northern
and southern hemisphere rugby styles.
After a tough defeat to Leinster last
weekend, Ulster will be determined to
bounce back and keep their playoff
hopes alive in front of their passionate
home crowd. The Sharks, fresh off a
dramatic win in Edinburgh, arrive in
Belfast looking to consolidate their topfour
position and build momentum for
the knockout stages.
Before the game, don’t miss your
chance to take on the Kingspan Scrumhalf
Challenge at the Kingspan Cabin.
Test your skills for an opportunity to
win a signed Ulster Rugby 2024/25
Home Shirt!
As always, we’re proud of our
sustainability initiatives at Kingspan
Stadium. From rainwater harvesting to
water refill stations, together with Ulster
Rugby, we’re committed to making
matchdays environmentally friendly
while delivering top-class rugby action.
Your support drives Ulster Rugby. Let’s
make this final home game of the season
one to remember!
SUFTUM!
Richard Beswick
Global Partnerships and Sports Sponsorships Manager
Lookout for Rachel McGuinness from
Enniskillen SKINclusions, who will be helping
Pete Snodden announce the Ulster team.
Tonight, for the URC Kids’ Round,
some of our Junior Season Ticket Holders will walk out with the team:
Henry Kelso, Harry Picken, Oliver Murray, Noah Murray, Conor Telford,
Lexi Stokes, Isabel Taggart, James Westland, Róise Cunningham, Eunan
Ferguson, Eli Ross, Gethyn Jones, Zachary Gregg & Oliver Cromie
4
5

President’s Welcome
I hope all of our wonderful supporters
had a great Easter and are as excited
as I am for this weekend, as the season
comes to an exciting last chapter.
Welcome to Kingspan Stadium for our
final home fixture of the season.
Many of our recent home matches have
been full of high scores and thrilling
moments, and a win against the Sharks
would be huge for our hopes of finishing
in the top eight.
I’m sure supporters will join me in thanking
some of our club centurions, who will be
leaving at the end of this season.
Alan O’Connor, Andrew Warwick, Kieran
Treadwell, John Cooney and Matty Rea
can all be extremely proud of their efforts
down the years for Ulster; let’s give them
the send-off they deserve this weekend.
A home win is the target and would be a
huge boost to our chances of qualifying
in the top eight of the URC. It’s so tight
and competitive, and every point really
counts in this final push.
The team put in a good shift against
Leinster at Aviva Stadium in Round 15 last
weekend, but the combination of injuries
and a strong Leinster bench made a
difference to the final scoreline.
Taking the positives, it was brilliant to see
Cormac Izuchukwu in such fine form after
his injury lay-off.
On my final home match as club
President, I want to thank all the people
that run the club and the busy rugby
schedule throughout the season.
Many of the people who are integral to
our rugby community are volunteers and
their passion isn’t taken for granted.
I want to congratulate Ballynahinch 2XV
on a great victory over Dromore on Easter
Monday to claim the Bank of Ireland Towns
Cup. The final was a thrilling match, with
both teams contributing mightily and the
Hinch men earning the cup with a 27-17
scoreline.
I also want to congratulate Ballymoney
RFC on their successes in the Crawford
and McCrea Cup finals. A very historic
achievement for the club to win both
trophies in the same season.
Ahead of this weekend, I want to wish
Ulster Juniors all the best as they get
ready for an interprovincial series title
defence, kicking off against Leinster at
Gorey RFC.
Let’s all hope for a huge performance this
evening and make Kingspan Stadium as
intimidating as possible for the Sharks!
SUFTUM
Laurence Rocke
President, IRFU Ulster Branch
7

Young
Supporters’
Drawings
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Lola Kane
Age 7
11

worked the ball through five phases before
prop, Tom Clarkson, squeezed over from
close range, with Ciaran Frawley adding the
conversion.
Ulster unlocked the Leinster defence on
36 minutes with a cleverly worked try for
Cormac Izuchukwu.
Tommy O’Brien created Leinster’s fifth
try on 58 minutes, the winger collecting
the ball in the Ulster 22 and kicking to
the wing, where replacement hooker Dan
Sheehan was unmarked and went over for
an unconverted try.
Last Time Out
Ulster left Dublin empty handed on a night
of adversity for Richie Murphy’s men as they
lost to league leaders Leinster in Round 15
of the BKT United Rugby Championship.
Ulster’s setbacks started even before a ball
had been kicked at the Aviva Stadium as
Ireland centre Stuart McCloskey was forced
to withdraw.
Stewart Moore was promoted to the starting
line up, with Wilhelm De Klerk coming onto
the bench.
SAT 19 APR
41-17
Moore only lasted 15 minutes before going
off injured and matters were made worse
when Mike Lowry had to leave the field five
minutes later after a heavy collision.
With only two backs on the bench Murphy
had to reshuffle his deck with Nathan Doak
moving to full back.
Ulster started brightly dominating the
early exchanges in terms of territory and
possession and were rewarded with the
opening score when they forced a penalty in
front of the Leinster posts that Jack Murphy
slotted over with the simple kick.
Leinster struck on 19 minutes, centres Robbie
Henshaw and Garry Ringrose combining to
put Tommy O’Brien into space. The winger
advanced before chipping over Doak and
had enough pace to win the race, gather the
ball and touch down for an unconverted try.
The home side’s second try arrived in the
27th minute, after a lineout, number eight
James Culhane drove from the line but
was stopped short. The forwards patiently
Doak soared high in the air to take a John
Cooney box kick and presented the ball
quickly for the replacement scrum-half, who
put Izuchukwu through a gap and the Irish
international playing his first game in two
months after returning from injury, galloped
with pace to go under the posts. Murphy
landed the conversion.
Leinster went into the interval with a 19-10
lead after they were awarded a penalty try
in the last minute of the first half.
The hosts kicked a penalty to touch, the
forwards set up a driving maul that was
surging towards the line when the referee
adjudged Dave McCann pulled it down
illegally, which earned the Ulster number
eight a yellow card and the referee awarded
Leinster the seven points.
Half-Time: LEI 19 - 10 ULS
Leinster wrapped their try bonus point up
two minutes after the restart, the backs
moved the ball quickly to expose Ulster’s
numerical disadvantage and Jamie Osborne
put Garry Ringrose over in the corner for an
unconverted score.
Leinster lock Diarmuid Mangan was sin
binned on 51 minutes for lifting a player
above the horizonal at the ruck.
Sheehan scored his second try on 68 minutes,
Liam Turner made a break and was hauled
down close to the line, the forwards worked
the ball through a couple of phases before
the Ireland international hooker powered
over with Sam Pendergast converting.
Replacement lock, Matty Dalton, grabbed
a late consolation try for Ulster from close
range with Murphy converting.
Leinster finished with a flourish as Sheehan
collected his hat trick try with two minutes
remaining for bring the contest to an end.
Full-Time: LEI 41 - 17 ULS
12
13

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THANK YOU
ulstermen
Treadwell has made over 175 caps for Ulster
and re-joins Gallagher Premiership side,
Harlequins, this summer.
16
At this Saturday’s home fixture against
Hollywoodbets Sharks, the club will
thank eight senior men’s players who are
departing at the end of the season.
On the players departing, Ulster Rugby’s
General Manager, Bryn Cunningham, paid
tribute to the dedication and commitment
shown by those leaving.
“On behalf of Ulster Rugby, I would like to
say thank you to the players leaving us at
the end of this season.
“Each player has made an important and
positive contribution, both on and off the
field.”
Alan O’Connor
Known affectionately as ‘Big Al’ the
experienced lock has been a key member
of the Ulster team since making his Senior
Men’s debut against Leinster back in
2012. O’Connor joined the Ulster Rugby
Academy after impressing for Ireland
U20s and would go onto a senior contract
for the 2016/17 season.
O’Connor was named Ulster’s Player of the
Year in 2021 and was awarded the URC’s
tackle machine award for the 2021/22
season, after he made an incredible 195
tackles across the campaign with a success
rate of 97.5%.
The Skerries man has captained the team
over 70 times and earlier this season, he
hit over 200 appearances for the province,
thus cementing himself in Ulster Rugby’s
history books.
Andrew Warwick
A dependable and strong prop, Andrew
Warwick has been a key member of Ulster
Rugby’s front row for over a decade. The
34 year-old Ballymena man broke into the
Senior side back in 2014, after playing AIL
rugby with Ballymena RFC.
A strong scrummager and set-piece player,
Warwick, has given his all to the jersey
down the years and earlier this season,
he reached the 200-cap milestone for his
province, marking an amazing achievement
for the man who doesn’t love the limelight.
Kieran Treadwell
29-year-old Treadwell first joined Ulster
back in 2016 after he showed potential
with both Ireland U18s and England U20s.
The Irish-qualified second row quickly
established himself within the senior squad
with his strong lineout calling, high work
rate, and his carrying ability.
The Sutton-born man has made 11 caps for
Ireland on the international stage, including
being part of the 2022 tour of New Zealand
and a member of the 2023 Guinness Six
Nations Grand Slam winning side.
John Cooney
The 34 year-old scrum-half joined the
province from Connacht in the summer of
2017, and quickly became a fan favourite
with his outstanding performances and
match-winning goal-kicking contributions.
With over 1,000 points scored, Cooney has
made an indelible impact at Ulster, where
he has been named in the URC Team of
the Year five times and nominated for the
EPCR European Player of the Year in 2020.
During his time at Ulster, he was also capped
11 times by Ireland on the international stage.
It was confirmed in March that Cooney will
be moving on the French side, CA Brive,
this summer after eight years of service.
Matty Rea
A former Danske Bank Schools’ Cup
winner with Ballymena Academy in 2010,
Rea joined Ulster Rugby back in 2012 on
a development deal after impressing for
Ballymena RFC in the AIL. A physical and
aggressive back row player, Rea has made
over 100 appearances for his province and
has played alongside his younger brother,
Marcus, for the senior side over the years.
Reuben Crothers
A former Ireland U20 Grand Slam and
Danske Bank Schools Cup winning captain,
Crothers, steps away from the professional
game at the end of the season after making
seven appearances for the senior team.
Crothers came through the Ulster Rugby
Academy and made his senior men’s debut
against Connacht in 2023.
Corrie Barrett
A former Schools’ Cup winner with RBAI
in 2015/16, Barrett joined the senior men’s
team after a trial period last summer. Barrett
had previously been involved in the Ulster
Rugby pathway at U19 and ‘A’ level before
playing in the RFU Championship with
Bedford Blues and Doncaster Knights. He
has played nine times Ulster.
Michael McDonald
25 year-old scrum-half, Michael McDonald,
departs the province after joining from
Super Rugby side, Western Force, back
in 2022. The former Junior Wallaby made
one cap for Ulster and spent the 2023/24
season on loan at Connacht.
17

Referees’ Corner
Tonight, we welcome Ben Whitehouse
(WRU) and his team of officials to
Kingspan Stadium for the BKT United
Rugby Championship Round 16 clash
against HollywoodBets Sharks.
As always, Ulster Rugby would like to
remind spectators to respect the decisions
of the match officials at all times.
In line with the URC’s Round 16 “Kids
Round” initiative, which aims to inspire
the next generation of sports fans, we
wanted to use this edition of Referee’s
Corner to highlight the volunteer match
officials who, throughout the season,
have given up their free time to facilitate
youth rugby across the province.
Meet the Referees Behind the Whistle
at Youth, School, and Club Rugby
Behind every youth rugby game played in
Ulster this season—whether on a muddy
school field on a Saturday morning or under
lights at a local club—there’s a USRFR
referee or Club Affiliate Referee working
hard to do more than simply enforce the
laws of the game. These men and women
are not just officials; they are educators,
protectors, and key contributors to the
development of young players.
Refereeing age-grade rugby is not merely
a scaled-down version of the senior
game. It requires a unique approach—
one built on clarity, empathy, and a deep
understanding of how young players
learn and grow within the sport.
For many young players, a referee’s voice
may be the first ‘official’ voice they hear on
the pitch. That voice needs to be consistent,
calm, and—above all—constructive. In
youth games, communication is not
just about making decisions; it’s about
guiding players through the game.
Whether it’s reminding a scrum-half to
wait for the ball to be out or explaining
a penalty for a high tackle in a tone that
encourages understanding rather than
frustration, a referee’s language shapes
how young players experience rugby.
“I always remind myself
they’re here to enjoy
rugby, not just to be
whistled at,”
says USRFR Branch Referee Rob Rees,
who officiated the U14 Leona Cup Final
at Kingspan last month.
“If a quick explanation can help them
avoid making the same mistake again, I’ll
take that moment every time.”
At the heart of the referee’s responsibility
is player welfare. At age-grade level,
players are still developing physically and
mentally, and safety must always be the
priority. This means taking a firm stance
on dangerous tackles, head contact, and
unsafe scrummaging—even when the
game is fast and competitive.
USRFR referees frequently take time to
check in with players, especially after
a knock or a fall, and work closely with
coaches to ensure the correct protocols
are followed. This vigilant approach builds
trust not only with players but also with
parents, schools, and clubs.
While safety is paramount, referees also
aim—as demonstrated when USRFR
official, Peter Martin officiated the
Schools’ Cup Final—to keep the game
flowing. They recognise that enjoyment
and rhythm are crucial for player
engagement. Allowing advantages to
play out, managing minor infringements
with empathy, and encouraging quick
restarts all help create a positive
experience on the field.
This doesn’t mean letting standards slip
—it means understanding the level and
the players in front of you. A well-managed
youth game should feel like a fair contest,
not a stop-start law book recital.
Perhaps the most important aspect of
refereeing youth rugby is its educational
value. Every match is an opportunity for
players to learn not just about the laws
of the game, but also about respect,
discipline, and resilience.
“Refereeing youth rugby gives me the
opportunity to play a role in player
development at an early stage. It’s
important to instil the values and
spirit of the game at age-grade level
so it becomes an integral part of that
player’s ethos,”
says Laura Taggart, USRFR official and
member of the Ulster Women’s and Girls’
Committee.
“It’s so rewarding seeing the players
and youth rugby growing across Ulster,”
she adds.
The best youth referees strike a balance:
If interested in becoming a Referee,
please contact:
Richard Kerr
Referee Development Manager
richard.kerr@irfu.ie | 07493 868 388
they’re firm but fair, approachable yet
authoritative, and always focused on
helping young players enjoy, understand,
and grow within the game.
Across Ulster, a growing network of
referees dedicate their weekends to
supporting youth rugby. Some are former
players giving back to the game. Others
are parents who picked up the whistle
to help out—and never looked back.
Increasingly, younger referees in their
early twenties are stepping up to take
charge of matches, gaining confidence,
leadership skills, and a deeper appreciation
of the game in the process.
And let’s not forget Banbridge native and
USRFR official Alana Kerr, who recently
officiated at the U18 Six Nations, hosted
in England.
President Ken Spence comments:
“We are exceptionally proud of the hard
work and dedication Alana has put into
her officiating to reach this level in just
her second season. I know I speak for
the whole society when I say: well done,
Alana! We can’t wait to see you reach your
full potential in the coming seasons.”
So, next time you’re at a school or club
fixture and hear that opening whistle,
take a moment to appreciate the person
holding it. They’re not just there to
enforce—they’re there to empower,
protect, and support the next generation
of rugby players.
U.S.R.F.R
18
19

Young
Supporters’
Drawings
Jessie Wauchope
Age 10
20

ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Hooker
26/05/1993
180cm
104kg
133
-
John
Andrew
Wing
19/08/1997
193cm
96kg
70
4
Rob
Baloucoune
Centre
24/02/2002
183cm
98kg
12
-
Ben
Carson
Scrum Half
01/05/1990
178cm
86kg
154
11
John
Cooney
Fly Half
07/06/1999
183cm
93kg
19
-
Jake
Flannery
Hooker
27/04/1990
185cm
106kg
251
40
Reuben
Crothers
Rob
Herring
Fly Half
14/11/2001
185cm
83kg
4
-
James
Humphreys
Lock
28/01/2000
201cm
118kg
39
1
Cormac
Izuchukwu
Wing
17/01/1993
180cm
96kg
13
Reuben
Crothers
Werner
Kok
Full Back
20/08/1998
170cm
78kg
122
1
Michael
Lowry
Prop
13/06/1998
177cm
120kg
9
Corrie
Barrett
Back Row
28/01/2002
188cm
102kg
7
-
Reuben
Crothers
Reuben
Crothers
Centre
07/09/1998
188cm
100kg
99
3
James
Hume
Lock
21/02/1992
199cm
119kg
161
85
Iain
Henderson
Centre
06/08/1992
193cm
112kg
201
19
Stuart
McCloskey
ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Hooker
08/01/2002
183cm
107kg
10
-
James
McCormick
Back Row
28/02/2003
194cm
116kg
17
-
James
McNabney
Wing
10/08/2000
188cm
90kg
68
-
Ethan
McIlroy
Scrum Half
24/06/1999
178cm
87kg
1
-
Michael
McDonald
Scrum Half
20/03/2001
183cm
86kg
1
-
Conor
McKee
Utility Back
08/08/1999
184cm
93kg
81
-
Stewart
Moore
Fly Half
07/06/2001
172cm
82kg
13
-
Aidan
Morgan
Wing
09/06/2001
191cm
101kg
33
-
Ben
Moxham
Lock
10/09/1992
196cm
115kg
210
-
Alan
O’Connor
Prop
30/11/1995
183cm
118kg
128
1
Eric
O’Sullivan
Prop
23/09/1998
184cm
120kg
121
17
Tom
O’Toole
Centre
03/04/2002
193cm
106kg
27
-
Jude
Postlethwaite
Prop
23/10/1998
188cm
124kg
2
-
Bryan
O’Connor
Back Row
03/04/2002
189cm
109kg
2
-
Lorcan
McLoughlin
Back Row
13/06/2000
193cm
110kg
65
-
David
McCann
Scrum Half
17/12/2001
185cm
86kg
86
-
Nathan
Doak
Lock
16/11/1998
200cm
116kg
13
-
Matthew
Dalton
23
22

ULSTER RUGBY MEN’S SENIOR SQUAD
Prop
06/01/1999
183cm
116.5kg
27
-
Callum
Reid
Back Row
04/11/1998
180cm
102kg
11
-
Sean
Reffell
Scrum Half
20/06/1993
175cm
77kg
97
-
Dave
Shanahan
Back Row
21/09/2001
195cm
121kg
40
-
Reuben
Crothers
Harry
Sheridan
Hooker
11/01/2001
183cm
105kg
51
2
Tom
Stewart
Wing
03/04/1996
191cm
104kg
131
38
Jacob
Stockdale
Back Row
01/08/1995
188cm
112kg
164
3
Nick
Timoney
Lock
06/11/1995
198cm
118kg
177
11
Reuben
Crothers
Kieran
Treadwell
Prop
12/03/1991
178cm
115kg
209
-
Andrew
Warwick
Prop
06/08/2002
186cm
125kg
32
-
Scott
Wilson
Utility Back
11/12/1998
191cm
101kg
8
-
Zac
Ward
Back Row
21/09/1993
193cm
114kg
111
-
Matty
Rea
Back Row
08/09/1997
188cm
110kg
54
-
Marcus
Rea
24

ULSTER RUGBY ACADEMY
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
-
-
1
-
2
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
-
-
-
10
-
Zac
Solomon
Josh
Stevens
Rory
Telfer
Henry
Walker
Bryn
Ward
Hooker
17/06/2004
Back Row
14/12/2004
Wing /Fullback
29/08/2003
Hooker
01/01/2003
Back Row
17/07/2004
Renewal Window
177cm
100kg
178cm
101kg
184cm
90kg
187cm
105kg
185cm
115kg
ulster.rugby/seasontickets
Until 18 May
1
-
4
-
-
General On-Sale
Tue 3 Jun
26
27

10.JACK MURPHY
We sat down with 20-year-old
Academy fly-half, Jack Murphy, who
has been stepping up to play in the
senior team at a crucial part of the
season for the province, with Ulster
pushing to finish in the top eight of
the BKT United Rugby Championship.
This Saturday sees South African
side, Hollywoodbets Sharks, come to
Kingspan Stadium for Round 16, with
both teams desperate for a vital victory.
Jack, how has prep been this week
ahead of Sharks?
It’s been good! Coming off last week
there were a few sore bodies, but we
have trained well all week and we’re
really looking forward to Saturday night.
We had a disappointing result against
Leinster but how was that experience
of playing at the Aviva Stadium in the
ten jersey?
Will that experience for the likes of
you, Wilhelm and others do you well
in the long-run?
It’s great personally playing against
some of the hardest teams around with
international players in the lineups. There
is pressure that comes with that, but
we can take a lot from the experiences.
Ulster supporters have been right
behind you and are pleased with how
you are developing, how much has
their support meant to you?
It’s great to hear, the last home game we
had against the DHL Stormers you could
feel how supportive they were and how
loud the stadium was on the night. When
it’s rocking like that, it’s a great place to
play. It gives me more confidence and
it’s nice to feel so welcomed to a place
that I’ve only been at for a few months.
28
I learned a lot from it. In fairness to
Leinster they played very well, they
managed to catch us out a couple of
times but I thought we had some nice
moments put together in the game
too. I took a lot of learnings out of that
game that I can take forward for the
rest of the season.
Injuries didn’t help during the game,
was that difficult to deal with, especially
the shuffling around in the backline?
Yes, we had obviously planned for Stuart
McCloskey to play and he had to pull out
in the warmup, Stewart Moore came in
and played really well before he had to
go off after about 20 minutes. Wilhelm
De Klerk did really well coming on but
it was difficult with the chopping and
changing throughout. We dealt with it
pretty well, but it made it hard to settle
into the game at times.
29

This Saturday we take on a team that are
full of World-Cup winning Springbok
internationals in the Sharks. How
excited are you for that challenge?
It’s very exciting! The last couple of
weeks have been tough games every
weekend and this is no different. We
have prepared well and have played
against some of the best teams in the
world in recent weeks, so we feel ready
to go.
It’s been a big year for you and
your brother Ben who is playing for
Connacht. How close are you two and
would you talk about how you both
are finding things?
Yes, we would be very close, and I
would talk to him most days over the
phone with him living in Galway. We
chat but don’t give anything away to
each other either! We are both in two
different places than we were last year.
He’s worked hard and we are delighted
to see him getting an opportunity.
Saturday is the last home game for
some players who will go down in the
history books, such as Alan O’Connor,
Andrew Warwick and John Cooney.
How have you found playing alongside
them?
I’ve only been here a short time, but I
have worked closely with Treads and Al
as the lineout operators and as a ten,
you need to have a good relationship
there. They have been helpful and
patient with me in that department.
Waz (Warwick) has been here for many
years and all the lads really love him
for all the hard work he puts in and has
done for a long time. Obviously with
John, he’s been brilliant. He never fails
to make you laugh and he will go down
an Ulster Rugby legend for some of his
clutch moments in the jersey. I’ve loved
playing with him this season and as a
team, we want to send all the guys off
with a win this Saturday.
Spot the Difference
Can you spot the 5 differences?
ANSWERS: Alan’s shoelace, Jacob’s jersey, Jacob’s leg strapping, Stormers 13’s arm, clock colour.
31

Half-Time
Exhibition Games
NEVIN SPENCE MEMORIAL STAND END ABBEYAUTOLINE FAMILY STAND END
Ballymena
Kit: Black/White
1 Tyler Quinn
2 Stewart Glass
3 Daniel Holmes
4 Austin Warwick
5 Charlie Galloway
6 Ben Patterson
7 Oliver Fleck
8 Sam Millar
9 Khirztoffe Bondoc
10 Kaiden Moore
11 Eli Russell
12 Josh Maybin
1 Callum Girvan
2 James Williamson
3 Ryan Law
4 TJ Veitch
5 Bobby McSpadden
6 Harley McKeag
7 Oliver McNeilly
8 Luke Burgess
9 Jamie Boyd
10 Hayden Dinely
11 Kai Smith
Ards
Kit: Black
12 Joe Brown
Holywood
Kit: Green/Black
1 Elliot Cooke
2 Luke Wallace
3 Rudy Grainger
4 James Crowe
5 Jonah Polley
6 James Reynolds
7 Josh Browne
8 Ethan Browne
9 Peter Boyd
10 Harry Riddell
11 Rowan McClure
12 Joel Benyon
Finn Valley
Kit: Green/Black/Amber
1 Alfie Thompson
2 Noah McGee
3 Blake Stevenson
4 Charlie Witherow
5 Max O’Donnell
6 Sofia Melaugh
7 Charlie McMenamin
8 Rian Herron
9 Taylor Lecky
10 Jonathan Rhys-Parke
11 Sam Cotter
12 Aiden McGrenaghan
33

1
2
3
1
2
3
Andrew WARWICK
Rob HERRING
Scott WILSON
Ox NCHE
Bongi MBONAMBI
Vincent KOCH
4
5
4
5
Alan O’CONNOR
C
Cormac IZUCHUKWU
Eben ETZEBETH
C
Jason JENKINS
6
8
7
6
8
7
Matty REA
James McNABNEY
Nick TIMONEY
James VENTER
Siya KOLISI
Vincent TSHITUKA
9
9
Nathan DOAK
Jaden HENDRIKSE
10
10
11
Jack MURPHY
11
Jordan HENDRIKSE
Zac Ward
12
Makazole MAPIMPI
12
Stuart McCLOSKEY
Andre ESTERHUIZEN
Replacements
13
Replacements
13
16 Tom STEWART
16 Jurenzo JULIUS
17 Callum REID
Jude POSTLETHWAITE
17 Ntuthuko MCHUNU
Lukhanyo AM
18 Bryan O’CONNOR
18 Hanro JACOBS
19 Matthew DALTON
14
19 Manu TSHITUKA
14
20 Kieran TREADWELL
21 Dave SHANAHAN
15
Werner KOK
20 Phepsi BUTHELEZI
21 Bradley DAVIDS
15
Ethan HOOKER
22 Aidan MORGAN
22 Siya MASUKU
23 David McCANN
Jacob STOCKDALE
23 Jurenzo JULIUS
Aphelele FASSI
36
Referee: Ben Whitehouse
Assistant Refs: Padraic Reidy & Max Weston TMO: Keith David
37

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projects 1

HOLLYWOODBETS
SHARKS
The Hollywoodbets Sharks made
history by being the first South
African Team to win a European
competition (EPCR Challenge
Cup) during the 2023/2024
season.
The Durban side have won eight Currie
Cup competitions (South Africa’s
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Makazole Mapimpi
World Cup-winning winger Mapimpi is simply
a try-scoring machine. His hard work and
attitude are key aspects of his game, last
weekend against Edinburgh was another
example, with Mapimpi staying patient
and producing the late try that saw the
Sharks snatch victory against their Scottish
opponents.
The 34 year-old winger went down in
Springbok history when he became the first
South African to score a try in a World Cup
final in 2019.
PREVIOUS
MEETINGS
Mar
2024
SHA 22
ULS 12
premier domestic rugby competition)
since 1990.
The Sharks have had numerous players
who have gone on to captain the
Springboks, including: Gary Teichmann,
John Smit, Johann Muller and Siya Kolisi.
FEB
2023
SHA 24
ULS 31
Eben Etzebeth
MAY
2022
ULS 24
SHA 21
Giant lock, Eben Etzebeth is one of the most
formidable competitors in world rugby.
Now 33 years of age, Etzebeth is the youngest
player to achieve a century of test matches
for his native South Africa. Further to that,
he is now the most-capped Springbok of all
time, is a two-time World Cup winner and
was a victor over the British & Irish Lions
back in 2021.
Standing at a height of 2.03m (6’6”) and
weighing-in at 121kg (19stone), Etzebeth
boasts an impressive skillset to compliment
his abrasive attitude towards the game.
NAME POSITION DOB HEIGHT WEIGHT
Am Lukhanyo Centre 28/11/1993 1.88m 101kg
Appollis Diego Centre 27/08/2000 1.78m 94kg
Barnard Meno Back Row 14/11/2003 1.93m 104kg
Bester Ethan Hooker 31/10/2004 1.88m 112kg
Bester Litelihle Centre 01/04/2004 1.88m 89kg
Bleuler Dian Prop 05/08/1999 1.83m 120kg
Buthelezi Phepsi No.8 30/05/1999 1.9m 108kg
Calvert Bryce Hooker 09/05/2003 1.8m 104kg
Davids Bradley Scrum Half 30/07/2002 1.75m 79kg
Dreyer Ruan Prop 16/09/1990 1.83m 112kg
Dyer Thomas Lock 16/11/2004 1.95m 115kg
Esterhuizen Andre Centre 30/03/1994 1.93m 113kg
Etzebeth Eben Lock 29/10/1991 2.03m 121kg
Fassi Aphelele Full-Back 23/01/1998 1.9m 94kg
Fourie Tiaan Scrum Half 22/04/2002 1.73m 78kg
Ganyane Phatu Prop 17/01/2003 1.85m 124kg
Grobler Gerbrandt Lock 06/02/1992 2.01m 119kg
Hatton Nick No.8 17/01/2003 1.93m 104kg
Hendrikse Jaden Scrum Half 23/03/2000 1.75m 89kg
Hendrikse Jordan Fly-Half 28/06/2001 1.88m 93kg
Heunis Dian Prop 20/05/2003 1.83m 125kg
Hlekani Batho Back Row 05/04/2005 1.93m 115kg
Hooker Ethan Centre 20/01/2003 1.93m 100kg
Hugo Reniel Lock 19/07/1990 1.98m 112kg
Jacobs Hanro Prop 14/03/2000 1.85m 129kg
Jenkins Jason Lock 02/12/1995 2.03m 127kg
Jooste Dan Hooker 21/02/1998 1.85m 108kg
Julius Jurenzo Centre 11/05/2004 1.78m 95kg
Keyter Eduan Centre/Wing 13/06/1996 1.85m 98kg
Koch Vincent Prop 13/03/1990 1.85m 118kg
Kolisi Siya Back Row 16/06/1991 1.85m 99kg
Kunene Hakeem Full-Back 03/02/2003 1.83m 87kg
Labuschagne Jeandre Back Row 17/07/1999 1.93m 106kg
Le Roux Coetzee Lock 22/01/2003 1.95m 112kg
Mapimpi Makazole Wing 26/07/1990 1.83m 90kg
Masuku Siya Fly-Half 01/08/1996 1.75m 97kg
Mavesere Tino Back Row 17/10/1998 1.88m 97kg
Mbatha Fez Hooker 02/08/1999 1.83m 112kg
Mbonambi Bongi Hooker 07/01/1991 1.75m 115kg
Mchunu Ntuthuko Prop 05/04/1999 1.88m 120kg
Mdanda Mawande Prop 09/03/2003 1.88m 131kg
Meyer Tian Scrum Half 20/09/1988 1.78m 84kg
Mona Khwezi Prop 08/10/1992 1.83m 120kg
Nche Ox Prop 23/07/1995 1.75m 120kg
Ningiza Siya Back Row 06/04/2002 1.85m 106kg
Nyakane Trevor Prop 04/05/1989 1.78m 121kg
Penxe Yaw Wing 03/04/1997 1.83m 93kg
Potgieter Jannes Back Row 05/05/2003 1.93m 112kg
Potgieter Marnus Wing/Centre 20/06/1999 1.88m 106kg
Rahl Corne Lock 27/05/2002 2.03m 122kg
Reyneke Braam Prop 14/06/2002 1.8m 117kg
Richardson Dylan FL/Hooker 15/01/1999 1.85m 110kg
Smith Jean Fly-Half 01/04/2003 1.8m 87kg
Tshituka Emmanuel Back Row 16/06/2000 1.93m 110kg
Tshituka Vincent Back Row 10/09/1998 1.93m 110kg
Van Heerden Emile Lock 08/08/2000 2.01m 109kg
Venter Francois Centre 19/04/1991 1.85m 95kg
Venter James Back Row 21/08/1996 1.83m 96kg
Williams Grant Scrum Half 22/07/1996 1.75m 80kg
Wright Cameron Scrum Half 20/04/1994 1.8m 90kg
40
41

TRAINING
42
43

44
Guest Article
by Rod Nawn
Sharks Wary of Wounded Ulster
RIGHT, take a deep breath, strap yourself
firmly into your seat, the last home game
of the season at Kingspan Stadium could
hardly be more dramatic!
‘Three Cup Finals’ is how Ulster Head
Coach Richie Murphy described his side’s
final regular season games in the United
Rugby Championship.
That rather aptly conveys just what his
team faces if it is to achieve the minimum
target set nine months ago: a place in
next month’s eight-team play-offs.
Ulster began the latest round of URC
fixtures clinging to the coveted eighth
spot, but with the competition so hotly
contested, by Friday night just ten
points separated the teams from fifth to
fourteenth.
All still have play-off ambitions — some
more realistic than others — and from
tenth place, Ulster may appear to have
a steep hill to climb. This evening, a
Springbok-laden Sharks side arrives,
fresh from a narrow win in Edinburgh. In
a fortnight, Ulster will travel to Limerick
to face Munster, before concluding the
regular season in Edinburgh.
This weekend’s visit from Durban’s Sharks
could hardly come at a more challenging
time for the hosts, whose squad is severely
depleted following last Saturday’s
casualty-heavy loss to Leinster in Dublin.
Against arguably Europe’s best and most
in-form club team, Ulster gave a strong
account of itself.
However, the loss of Michael Lowry,
Stewart Moore, Rob Herring, Andy
Warwick, and the remarkable Cormac
Izuchukwu at key moments dashed any
realistic hopes of silencing the sea of blue
in the Aviva Stadium.
Stuart McCloskey’s late withdrawal had
already removed a major attacking threat
from Ulster’s three-quarter line in the face
of Leinster’s dynamic Garry Ringrose and
Robbie Henshaw.
There were, nonetheless, standout
performances from Murphy’s men in
Dublin — a relentless physical presence
up front, composed game management
at half-back, the athleticism of Izuchukwu
and Nick Timoney, and the continued
commitment and form of Jacob Stockdale,
who was ever-present in attack.
The South African sides always gain
momentum as the southern hemisphere
season approaches. With their top players
returning and conditioned for both
domestic and international duties, the
Sharks, Bulls, and Stormers are all wellplaced
to qualify for the play-offs. The first
two, in particular, are eyeing potentially
crucial home quarter-finals.
John Plumtree brings to Belfast some
of the sport’s biggest names. After both
featured in Scotland, the home crowd will
be fully aware of the threat posed by World
Cup-winning captain and outstanding
flanker Siya Kolisi, and the imposing lock
Eben Etzebeth.
Emile van Heerden is another towering
second-row presence, while Bongi
Mbonambi anchors a front row as
energetic as it is technically skilled.
Behind the pack, the half-back pairing of
Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse has proven
dangerous, and with the pace and power
of Makazole Mapimpi and Ethan Hooker
on the wings, any opponent must plan
accordingly.
This season’s Sharks squad is perhaps
its strongest yet. Springboks boss
Rassie Erasmus will undoubtedly have
many of tonight’s players in his thoughts
as he shapes a side for the 2027 World
Cup defence.
Ulster, though respectful of the quality
they face, will not be overawed. Richie
Murphy, despite enduring an even tougher
week than expected post-Dublin, will rally
his remaining fit players and send out a
team intent on playing to its strengths —
particularly its attacking instincts.
Nathan Doak started at scrum-half
last weekend, and he and Jack Murphy
have formed a strong understanding,
even when the set-piece hasn’t been
dominant. If fit, Rob Herring or Tom
Stewart — both dynamic in open play
— will bring added leadership. Herring,
in particular, has long been one of the
game’s most intelligent operators.
James McNabney, if cleared to play, offers
fearless physicality and a crucial presence
in the chaos of ruck and maul.
Cooney’s farewell will draw deserved
applause — as will those of other longserving
players departing at season’s
end: Andrew Warwick, Kieran Treadwell,
Matty Rea, and Alan O’Connor, who have
all given so much to the cause.
Reuben Crothers’ retirement is particularly
poignant. The former Ireland U20 Six
Nations-winning captain was tipped by
many as a future leader for both Ulster
and Ireland. He leaves the game young,
but with the fans’ heartfelt thanks.
The same gratitude extends to the
Academy cohort being released. Whatever
their next steps — within or beyond rugby
— they depart with sincere appreciation.
Still, for many mentioned, there remains
unfinished business: three regular-season
matches that could yet see Ulster into the
play-offs. That may not feel like an outright
success, but it would mark progress given
the season’s many obstacles.
45

Key players — including Stuart McCloskey,
James Hume, Iain Henderson, Stewart
Moore, Eric O’Sullivan, Ben Carson, Robert
Baloucoune, Ben Moxham, Ethan McIlroy,
Jake Flannery, Sean Reffell, and Callum
Reid — have all endured extended spells
out through injury.
Casualties are part of the game —
increasingly so, as rugby becomes ever
more physical — and Richie Murphy has
navigated a transitional first full season on
and off the pitch. He’s given opportunities
to emerging talent, rotated widely, and seen
glimpses of the team’s evolving identity.
Jack Murphy’s arrival has been a major
boost. James Humphreys also impressed at
fly-half, and Aidan Morgan, perhaps unlucky
not to have had more chances, will hope
for patience in future selection battles.
signings this summer. Leinster operates
on a different playing and business
level. Ulster’s future lies in developing
homegrown talent and restoring a
proud identity.
This campaign has offered thrilling highs
and frustrating lows, but always plenty to
talk about.
Now, all eyes turn to the next three weeks.
A patched-up but spirited Ulster side
hosts a powerful yet inconsistent Sharks
outfit. A win tonight would suddenly put
the play-offs within reach — and turn away
trips to Thomond Park and Edinburgh into
opportunities to galvanise the faithful.
Humphreys has taken short-term leave
to develop his game in New Zealand — a
move that reflects his drive to improve. He
remains just 24 hours away from a return
if needed, and his dedication bodes well
for Ulster’s future.
With his coaching team now set
for 2025/26, Richie Murphy knows
expectations will rise. He’s a proven coach,
realistic about where Ulster currently
stands in Irish rugby, but confident that
meaningful progress is achievable — even
within financial constraints.
There will be no Reiko Ioane-style
There is still a chance for this season
to finish on a high. Ulster Rugby’s
administration is steadier, and financial
security is being vigorously pursued.
Let’s seize the moment — and send the
Sharks back to the deep!
This week’s raffle prizes:
1st prize: Nomadic watch
2nd prize: Signed Ulster jersey
3rd prize: Signed ball
46
RRP
£1,550
BUY TICKET

End of Season Awards Dinner
Tickets for the Heineken Ulster Rugby
Awards Dinner, one of the biggest events
in the local sporting social calendar –
are on sale now.
Always an eagerly anticipated occasion,
the 2024/25 celebration will be a black-tie
event on Thursday 22 May at the Crowne
Plaza Belfast.
Providing supporters the opportunity to
join the Ulster Rugby senior men’s and
women’s teams for a night of celebration,
the event will recognise the achievements
and contributions of individuals, clubs
and schools from across Ulster, as well
as the province’s elite teams.
A series of awards will be handed out on
the night, culminating in the senior men’s
and women’s Player of the Year, and the
Heineken Personality of the Year.
A full programme of entertainment is
planned for the night, and fans will also
have the opportunity to bid farewell to
players that are departing at the end of
the season.
Key Details
Thursday 22 May
Crowne Plaza, Belfast
7pm Drinks Reception
Dress Code: Black Tie
Dining: 3 course meal including
table wine
Price: £140pp / Tables of 10 starting
at £1,250
To reserve a table please email
events@ulsterrugby.com
or call 028 9049 3222.
For sponsorship opportunities,
please contact Ulster Rugby Business
Development Manager Glenda Willett
on Glenda.Willett@ulsterrugby.com.
48
49

PROUD TO BE OFFICIAL WATER
Young
Supporters’
Drawings
& HYDRATION PARTNER OF
ULSTER RUGBY
Ethan Martindale
Age 10
Ben Wilson
Age 10
50
51

In Memoriam
At this evening’s game - the final home game of the regular season - we will
remember all those connected with Ulster Rugby who have passed away over
the course of the season.
Here is a list of names submitted by supporters. We remember all those named
and indeed all our loved ones who have passed away in the last year.
Alan Brown
Albert Hewitson
Albert McCracken
Andrew Weir
Ann Simpson
Anne Dunlop
Anthony Brennan
Barrie Megarry
Bertie (Rusty) Sparkes
Brian Crawford
Charlie Grimes
Charlie Majury
Chris Wilson
Clarke Wilson
Colin Campbell
Daniel Greer
David Coffey
Dennis Manson
Don Collins
Douglas Maxwell
Dr Joe Gaston
Dr Zohreh Farzad
Dr Stephen McQuaid
Eileen Lamb
Eric Chambers
Ernie Beatty
Frances Young
Frank Elliott
Frank Shane
Frank McMullan
George Graham
George Robinson
Gerry Simms
Hugh Stevenson
James Crooks
James Pattison
Jan Turner
Jim Crooks
Jimmy Parkhill
John Bell
John Kelly
Jonny Gibson
Joseph (Joey) Tate Gaston
Julie McCormick
Karl Campbell
Kerry McFadden-Newman
Len Hall
Margaret Wren
Noel Magee
Norman Russell
Paul Kirkpatrick
Peter Leatham
Richard Greer
Richard Ruddell
Ricky Cole
Robin Anderson
Ronnie McLean
Ryan McCartney
Shel Wray
Steven (Steve) McKay
Sylvia Coey
Terry Murphy
Tud Orr
Walter Lindsay
William (Billy) McCombe
52
53

GUESS WHO?
Can you name the 4 players?
56
Top to Bottom: James Hume, Tom Stewart, Tom O’Toole, Michael Lowry.

Andrew Warwick Q&A
Favourite Ulster player past or
present?
Mikey Lowry
Who is your favourite roommate
on away trips?
Al O’Connor- he knows his place
Any habits or rituals before a
game?
Warmest bath possible
Apart from rugby, what other
sports do you like?
Football
Best advice you’ve had
about playing rugby?
Every moment matters
If you didn’t play rugby
for a living, what would
you do?
Time will tell...
Favourite kit this season and
why? (White, Red, Black)
Black- more flattering for the
big boys!
Best thing about being a
professional rugby player?
The feeling of running out as a
team at the start of a game
Favourite away ground?
Stade Marcel Michelin
Most intimidating opponent?
Carl Hayman
59

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Ulster Stars Shine at U18 Six Nations Festivals
Ireland U18 Women’s Festival
The Ireland U18 Women’s team, captained
superbly by Ulster’s own Cara McLean
(Larne RFC), had a fantastic festival
campaign. Seven Ulster players were
part of the squad that displayed exciting
attacking rugby.
They kicked off Day 1 with two impressive
wins, scoring five tries against Italy and
three tries against England. Ulster’s Amy
McConkey (Cooke RFC) was among the
try-scorers against Italy, and Caitlin Crowe
(Cavan RFC) featured prominently.
Day 2 brought mixed results. Ireland
secured a convincing 22-7 victory over
Scotland, with Ulster’s Amy McConkey
and Ciara O’Donnell (Cooke RFC) both
crossing the try line. They faced a tough
challenge against France, losing 0-14.
The festival finished with a thrilling 24-24
draw against Wales on Day 3, where the
Ulster contingent, including Captain Cara
McLean, Amy McConkey, Olivia McKinley
(Banbridge RFC), Erin McConalogue
(Inishowen RFC), and Caitlin Crowe,
played key roles.
A special mention must go
to Captain Cara McLean.
Leading her country is
an incredible honour,
adding to her successful
season which included winning the U18
Girls’ Youth Cup at Kingspan Stadium
earlier this year.
Ulster Representatives (Women):
• Cara McLean (Larne RFC) - Captain
• Amy McConkey (Cooke RFC)
• Olivia McKinley (Banbridge RFC)
• Ciara O’Donnell (Enniskillen RFC)
• Caitlin Crowe (Cavan RFC)
• Erin McConalogue (Inishowen RFC)
• Grace Simati (Letterkenny RFC)
Everyone at Ulster Rugby extends a
huge congratulations to all these players.
Representing their province and country
at this level is a significant achievement,
and they have been outstanding
ambassadors for Ulster Rugby.
We look forward to seeing their careers
develop further.
Ulster Rugby proudly congratulates
the exceptional young players from
the province who represented Ireland
at the recent U18 Men’s and Women’s
Six Nations Festivals. Sixteen talented
players from Ulster were involved in the
Ireland U18 setup this year, an incredible
feat for the province.
Ireland U18 Men’s (Schools) Festival
The Ireland U18 Schools team, featuring
a strong contingent of nine Ulster
players, experienced the highs and lows
of festival rugby. After a tough opening
day loss to Wales (24-32), they bounced
back impressively on Day 2, defeating
Scotland 38-21 in a commanding six-try
performance.
Player of the Match in RBAI’s victorious
Schools’ Cup Final at Kingspan Stadium
last year.
Ulster Representatives (Men):
• Adam Boyd (RBAI) - below
• Nathan Noble (Sullivan Upper HS)
• Ollie Fitzsimmons (Wallace HS)
• Jon Rodgers (Wallace HS)
• Charlie O’Connor (RBAI)
• James Gould (Wallace HS)
• Connor McVicker (BRA)
• Tom Bell (Ards RFC/Regent House)
• Ben Moore (Wallace HS)
The festival concluded on a high note with
a hard-fought 26-21 victory over Georgia.
Ulster’s Nathan Noble was instrumental
in the final win, scoring two tries, while
Connor McVicker added three crucial
conversions.
A special commendation goes to
Adam Boyd (Royal Belfast Academical
Institution), who was named Player of
the Tournament. This is a tremendous
achievement for Adam, who was also
62
63

ONE OF IRELAND’S MOST ADVANCED EYE HOSPITALS
2024/25 HOME FIXTURES
H Glasgow Warriors Sat 21 Sep W 20-19 URC
A Emirates Lions Sat 28 Sep L 35-22 URC
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A Vodacom Bulls Sat 5 Oct L 47-21 URC
H Connacht Sat 12 Oct W 32-27 URC
H Ospreys Fri 18 Oct W 36-12 URC
A Cardiff Sat 26 Oct L 21-19 URC
H Leinster Fri 29 Nov L 20-27 URC
A Stade Toulousain Sun 8 Dec L 61-21 ICC
H Union Bordeaux Bègles Sat 14 Dec L 19-40 ICC
H Munster Fri 20 Dec L 19-22 URC
A Connacht Sat 28 Dec W 7-17 URC
A Leicester Tigers Sat 11 Jan L 38-10 ICC
H Exeter Chiefs Fri 17 Jan W 52-24 ICC
H Zebre Parma Sun 26 Jan L 14-15 URC
H Queensland Reds Fri 7 Feb L 31-38 Friendly
A Benetton Sat 15 Feb L 34-19 URC
H Scarlets Sat 1 Mar W 30-28 URC
A Dragons Sat 22 Mar W 30-34 URC
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H DHL Stormers Fri 28 Mar W 38-34 URC
A Union Bordeaux Bègles Sun 6 Apr L 43-31 ICC
A Leinster Sat 19 Apr L 41-19 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
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OPEN CAPTAIN’S RUN
Season Ticket Holder Exclusive | Fri 25 Apr
Ulster Juniors Set to Defend Interprovincial
Crown as Series Kicks Off
Get ready for another exciting season
of Junior Interprovincial rugby as the
series kicks off this weekend! All eyes
will be on our Ulster Juniors, who enter
the competition as defending champions
after a triumphant campaign last season.
The team will be determined to replicate
that success and bring the trophy back to
Ulster once again.
The journey to defend their title starts this
Saturday, with a challenging away fixture
against Leinster at Gorey RFC (kick-off
2.30 pm). The Interprovincial Series will
see Ulster battle it out against Leinster,
Munster, and Connacht over three rounds
in April and May.
Meet the 2024/25 Squad and Coaches
A talented 31-player squad has been
assembled, representing clubs from across
Championship Divisions 1, 2, and 3. Leading
the charge this year is captain Curtis Pollock
from Ballymoney RFC, with Dromore RFC’s
Gary Dillon serving as vice-captain.
Overseeing the campaign is Head Coach
Damien Campbell, supported by Assistant
Coaches Graeme Eastwood and Simon
Patterson, with Jeremy Ogle managing the
team. This experienced coaching setup will
be looking to guide the squad to back-toback
titles.
Round 1: Sat 26 Apr
Leinster v Ulster (Gorey RFC, 2.30pm)
Round 2: Sat 3 May - Connacht v Ulster
(Castlebar RFC, 2.30pm)
Round 3: Sat 10 May - Ulster v Munster
(Dromore RFC, 2.30pm)
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Let’s get behind the Ulster Juniors as they
embark on their Interprovincial journey!
We wish the players and coaching staff the
very best for the upcoming series.
2024/25 Ulster Juniors Squad
Forwards
Adam Hanna | Dromore RFC
Orran McIlmurray | Lurgan RFC
Neil Rutledge | Enniskillen RFC
Angus Cunningham | Lurgan RFC
Tom-Arthur Donnan | Coooke RFC
Matthew Millar | Dromore RFC
Ryan Emerson | Lurgan RFC
James Leary | Bangor RFC
James Wright | Portadown RFC
Jack Rutledge | Enniskillen RFC
David Brown | Ballymoney RFC
Curtis Pollock (C) | Ballymoney RFC
Angus Keys | Enniskillen RFC
Gary Dillon (VC) | Dromore RFC
Michael Rooney | Enniskillen RFC
Backs
Ryan Flavelle | Cooke RFC
Angus Christy | Ards RFC
Eddie Keys | Enniskillen RFC
Adam Keating | Dromore RFC
Jonny Hunter | Dromore RFC
Davey Graham | City of Derry RFC
Dean Dillon | Dromore RFC
Conor Lusty | Bangor RFC
Robbie Johnston | Ards RFC
Andy McMurray | Cooke RFC
Sam Balfour | Enniskillen RFC
Michael Orr | Portadown RFC
Jack Dillon | Dromore RFC
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Ruan Gallagher
Age 7
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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
The Food Village will be in operation,
serving a variety of cuisines, while the
Cool FM Crew will provide the soundtrack
for the evening.
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.
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
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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
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CALENDAR!
ulster.rugby
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