Exciting results came out of yesterday's Round of 16 draw for the Danske Bank Ulster Schools' Cup, with the first draw pulling big gasps from all those in the room. In a tightly-contested final last year, between RBAI and Campbell College, it took an injury time winner from former Captain, and now Ulster Rugby Academy player Jacob Boyd, to clinch the title in a 22-17 win. These two teams now face each other at Osborne Park, in the next round. The draw was also completed for the Ulster Schools' Bowl.
The draw kicked off with speeches from IRFU Ulster Branch president, Denis Gardiner and Schools' Committee Chairman, Richard Clingan.
Denis thanked all the schools for coming and what a pleasure it was to be holding the draw. He then asked everyone to stand and have a moment of silence for rugby legend, Dr Syd Millar CBE, who passed away earlier this week. "Syd was widely regarded as the most important and influential rugby personality ever to come from Ulster. It would be easy for me to simply list his many incredible achievements as a player, coach, innovator, manager and administrator, but you already know of all those, and no doubt they will be listed elsewhere."
Richard then went on to give a speech, thanking all involved from the Ulster Schools' Cup, Danske Bank, to all the coaching staff teachers and board of governors for everything they do to support school rugby.
"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.
"Ulster schools’ rugby is kept to the fore by Barney McGonigle, he ensures all Ulster schools’ rugby activity is well publicised throughout the island. Barney also does much work behind the scenes, organising various finals and through his representation of schools on Ulster Branch committee. Barney thank you for all that you do for schools’ rugby week in, week out."
In addition, Richard drew attention to the importance of Ulster Rugby's initiative #respectURgame, highlighting respect for players, officials and volunteers is the cornerstone of this experience and key to upholding the values of sport.
Ian Russell from Danske Bank, also gave a few words. He highlighted how this is Danske's nineteenth year sponsoring the schools' competitions and how Danske Bank are really proud and passionate to support the competition as part of the journey of young players, and the development of talent we see year on year.
All games in the Danske Bank Ulster Schools' Cup must be played on or before Saturday 27 January 2024. Fixtures below:
All games in the Danske Bank Ulster Schools' Bowl must be played on or before Saturday 27 January 2024, with a preliminary game that must be played on or before Saturday 20 January 2024. Fixtures below:
