Denis's rugby journey began back in 1961, when Elvis Presley was topping the singles charts and West Side Story had just hit theatres.
Denis played as a full-back for Larne RFC and played one season for King's Scholars. He would go on to captain Larne RFC side for two years during the 1970s and played his last league match in 1982. During this period he was elected as Larne's youngest ever President, something he is still proud of to this day.
Denis continued his work in rugby through the Ulster Rugby Clubs Committee, before becoming the Honorary Secretary of the Ulster Branch, following 10 years as Competitions Honorary Secretary.
Now, his rugby story has it's latest chapter, as the Branch's new President, an opportunity that he says he is relishing.
"I am looking forward to getting started in the role, as there is a lot of important work to be done in the months ahead. Whilst I am excited, it's important to understand the substantial challenges that face the organisation.
Realism is kicking into professional rugby in terms of financial challenges, you only have to look at the issues in high profile English clubs and with the Welsh Rugby Union recently. In these financially difficult times, we have to support our academy and produce our own talent. It is a business as well as a sport and it's going to be important that we stick to our budgets and live within our means."
Another key objective and ambition for Denis, is continue the work being done to improve the Women and Girls game across the province.
He adds "In terms of the women and girls game, we are still lagging behind other provinces however we are improving year upon year. I have sat on the womens' committee for three years which has a lot of good people working hard on this. Paula Stewart is doing a great job as chair of that committee and we are working at improving gender balance across the branch."
Denis added that he is looking forward to working alongside our charity partner, Horatio's Garden, as we extend the partnership into a successive season.
Outgoing Philip Gregg hands over the presidency to Denis, after a year that was full of memories.
Speaking about his year as President Philip reflected; "It has been such an honour and privilege to have served as President. At Kingspan Stadium some highlights would be hosting the Spence family to mark the 10th anniversary of the loss of Noel, Graham and Nevin.
"Another highlight would be hosting the great Schools Cup final and AIL Junior Cups, contested by fantastic schools and clubs that showcased some of the brilliant talent across the domestic and schools game. "
Philip also highlighted the life-changing work going on at our official charity partner, Horatio's Garden. "Attending a completed Horatio’s Garden in Cardiff Spinal Hospital , prior to the Cardiff Game where I met staff , patients and volunteers to hear first hand what an incredible difference the Garden makes to everyone ."
"These are just key highlights that stand out but the entire experience of serving as President , meeting so many kind and wonderful people, truly inspirational volunteers who devote so much time, energy and enthusiasm in continuing to promote and develop Rugby has been such a privilege .
Finally as I hand over to Denis Gardiner, I want to wish him well , it is difficult to imagine a more deserving candidate for the role of President."