The IRFU (Ulster Branch) are delighted to announce Portadown RFC and Carrickfergus RFC as the latest clubs to receive the prestigious Clubmark Award.
The Clubmark programme is a national cross-sports quality accreditation scheme delivered in partnership with Sport NI, recognising clubs which are well-run and offer a safe, rewarding and fulfilling place for people to enjoy rugby.
Matthew Holmes, Ulster Rugby Club Services Officer, commented:
“Portadown and Carrickfergus have worked extremely hard in recent months to compile their Clubmark portfolio, update their development plans and undertake a site visit. Both clubs should be commended for adopting such high standards across all aspects of their rugby club and its day to day operation. Their efforts to promote participation, nurture talent and maintain life-long involvement in rugby match perfectly with our objectives as their governing body to develop a vibrant and healthy club rugby infrastructure.”
Terence McCracken, Carrickfergus RFC’s club representative noted:
“We are enormously proud as a club to be accredited with Clubmark. The time and effort taken to compile the information has been extremely worthwhile, and it demonstrates our commitment to developing a well-governed and well-managed club which operates a safe and supportive environment for people of all ages, genders and abilities from Carrickfergus and the surrounding areas to enjoy rugby. In particular, I would like to acknowledge the work that Peter Luney and others in our Management team gave to this project”
Portadown RFC President Clive Bowles also stated:
“The award recognises the high standards, principles and practices in place here at Portadown RFC. The future looks bright for the club, and we have set out ambitious plans for the next 3 years which we will be working hard to deliver.”
The Clubmark accreditation lasts for 3 years, and is awarded to clubs that comply with minimum operating standards in five areas:
Portadown RFC President Clive Bowles also stated:
“The award recognises the high standards, principles and practices in place here at Portadown RFC. The future looks bright for the club, and we have set out ambitious plans for the next 3 years which we will be working hard to deliver.”
The Clubmark accreditation lasts for 3 years, and is awarded to clubs that comply with minimum operating standards in five areas:
- Effective Club Management
- Community Engagement
- Quality Coaching & Competition
- Creating a Safe Environment
- Safeguarding Members