This was Domino’s Pizza’s first year of involvement as sponsor and despite the on-going stadium redevelopment the festival proved to be a big success.
Each school played three matches against other Primary Schools and then enjoyed pizza provided by Domino’s at lunchtime. The participants also had the opportunity to meet an Ulster Rugby star at the end of each day; Stephen Ferris, Darren Cave, Nigel Brady and Ruan Pienaar were all on hand to sign autographs and pose for photos.
The emphasis of the blitz was based on participation and enjoyment so there were no knockouts or play offs, instead match officials nominated two teams per day for a 'Fair Play' and 'Best Skills' award.
The ‘Fair Play' awards went to Moyallen, Omagh Integrated, Tandragee and Whiteabbey Primary Schools, whilst the ‘Best Skills' awards went to Strandtown, Ben Madigan, Spires Integrated and Irvinestown Primary Schools.
In order to be eligible to play at Ravenhill, each school must affiliate to the IRFU Ulster Branch and take part in a regional qualifying blitz.
Ulster Rugby would like to thank all the schools for taking part, showing tremendous enthusiasm and skill throughout the festival, to the Ulster Society of Rugby Football Referees for providing officials, and of course to the title sponsor - Domino’s Pizza - with their help the number of schools playing mini rugby in Ulster has increased to 81.
For further information on Primary Schools Mini Rugby, or if you are interested in taking part next year, please contact jonathan.gillespie@ulsterrugby.com.