ULSTER BANK LEAGUE DIVISION 1A
Terenure College v Ballynahinch
The County Down side survived an end of season playoff to retain their Division 1A status last time round, but It is fitting that two Dublin clubs get to kick off proceedings in Division 1A given that six capital sides now compete in the top flight. UCD have shown some good early season form in reaching the Leinster Senior Cup semi-finals, with back-three regulars Barry Daly and Andrew Boyle each scoring hat-tricks against Seapoint last week. Impressive back rower Kevin Sheahan leads a St. Mary's side hungry to get back to the heights of their 2012 title win. They did the double on UCD last season, but the students should gain revenge in this Irish Rugby TV-live streamed opener.
ULSTER BANK LEAGUE DIVISION 1B
UL Bohemians v Belfast Harlequins
An intriguing tie to close off the Division 1B schedule as UL Bohemians entertain Adam Larkin's Belfast Harlequins. Both UL and Harlequins have good foundations from last season (finishing third and sixth respectively) and the sides shared one win each with Bohs triumphing 23-17 at Annacotty. Bohs were stung by Thomond last week in the Limerick Charity Cup and a big reaction is expected - and will be needed - against a fired-up 'Quins side.
Malone v Buccaneers
Malone relied on two end of season wins against Shannon and Galway Corinthians to retain their Division 1B status back in April. Jacques Benade's side look in better form of late - centre Josh Pentland and number 8 Conor Joyce in particular - and should prevail in a hard-fought game.
Ballymena v Corinthians
Promoted Ballymena could make quite a statement of intent if they overcome Corinthians, a team that finished fourth last season after such a terrific start. The Braidmen, coached by Andy Graham, have brought in outhalf Ritchie McMaster from Queen's University and back rower Stephen Mulholland returns from Rainey Old Boys. Pat Cunningham has taken over as Corinthians' head coach, assisted by Gavin Duffy (backs) and Sean Duignan (forwards), and they will want to hit the ground running after losing 38-11 to neighbours Galwegians in the Connacht Senior League.
ULSTER SENIOR LEAGUE
Banbridge v Dungannon
There was a reminder for Daniel Soper and his players last weekend that they cannot be complacent as they were beaten at home by a strong City of Derry side 23-18. The Bann side will want a win before they commence their UBL campaign. Captain Jonny Graham has to show leadership in leading this talented squad of players. Dungannon may have slipped under the radar, but they have shown in their performances against Rainey and Malone they will provide stiff opposition for any side. Again, captain James Bates and number 8 James McMahon are inspirational players.
City of Derry v Ards
Ards coach Stewart Porter will look for a much improved performance before his team travel to Sligo for their opening UBL game. After heavy defeats to Banbridge and Ballymena the players know they have to improve their performances. City of Derry may have lost a few players but they will prove difficult to defeat such is the resilience of this North West squad.
KUKRI QUALIFYING LEAGUE 2
Academy v Randalstown
There is a County Antrim derby with Academy welcoming Randalstown to Roughfort Park. Both sides finished last season strongly with a top six placing once again within their sights. Academy have Head Coach Gareth Lynn in charge and he will be looking to captain Lee Moody to provide the leadership on the pitch. With Ulster Junior props James Blair and Chris Nash in their front row expect Academy to be very competitive this season. Randalstown have Gary Longwell and Alistair Strange in charge as they continue to establish themselves in Qualifying 2. Playing additions including Scott Stevenson and Daniel Morgan along with the return of injured players Neil Foster and Chris Allen will only strengthen their squad.
Enniskillen v Lisburn
With a new coaching team of Norman Richmond, Ashley Finlay and Jamie Johnston in place at Mullaghmeen there is an air of anticipation the 'Skins' could be a surprise package in this league. After a strong pre-season they have welcomed returning Beatty brothers Gareth and Richard to the front row alongside Ryan Cathcart. With Ulster Juniors Alan Wilkinson, Johnston and Finlay to call on they have the additional playing experience to move forward this developing playing squad. The return of the experienced Nick Finlay at outhalf will be a big bonus for the squad. Expect a noisy welcome from the Shed' for Mark Crothers and his Lisburn side. Injuries and indiscipline could have proved costly in their narrow win over a depleted Holywood side. Lisburn will pose a threat for the skins team with the presence of their influential and physical Fijian centre.
Holywood v Omagh
In the final Q2 fixture Holywood will welcome promotion favourites Omagh to Kerr Park. Coach Laurence Kelly is working a miracle with a small playing squad at Holywood following the departure of several players to England. He will be looking to players including Luke McDowell, Kyle McFarland, Jordan De Pledge, captain Rory Eves and forwards Phil Harris and Andrew Davidson to keep his side in Qualifying 2. Omagh coach Phil Marshall has a full playing squad at his disposal. He has key players in prop and captain Mark Smyth along with the very talented backs of Ali Beckett, Ryan Mitchell and Lee Murphy to call upon.
KUKRI QUALIFYING LEAGUE 4
Letterkenny v Virginia
Monaghan v Civil Service
FRENDLIES
Armagh v Dundalk
Larne v Carrickfergus
Lurgan v Cavan