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.
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.
"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.
“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."
Danske Bank Schools' Cup Round of 16
All games in the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup must be played on or before Saturday 25 January 2025.
- Banbridge Academy v Sullivan Upper
- Enniskillen Royal Grammar v Wallace High School
- Methodist College v Belfast Royal Academy
- Bangor Grammar v Rainey Endowed School
- Dalriada School v Ballymena Academy
- Coleraine Grammar v Regent House School
- Campbell College v Royal Belfast Academical Institution
- Royal School Armagh v Down High School
Danske Bank Schools' Bowl Round of 16
All games in the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup must be played on or before Saturday 25 January 2025.
- Lurgan College v Ballyclare High School
- Strabane Academy v Grosvenor Grammar School
- Carrickfergus Grammar School v Cambridge House School
- Friends'/Larne Grammar v Belfast High School
- Foyle College v Limavady Grammar
- Portadown College v Antrim Grammar School
- Omagh Academy v Bangor Academy
- Dromore High School v Royal School Dungannon