Laurence, nicknamed 'Rocky', described the appointment as a ‘huge honour’ and that he will look forward with great optimism to what promises to be a busy season in 2024/25.
The newly-elected President has spent most of his life with a deep passion for the sport, however he adds that he was “never a good player!"
Laurence played for Queens University RFC and Cooke RFC, before hanging up his rugby boots due to a neck injury that was sustained in a car accident.
With a professional medical background, Laurence got involved with Ulster Rugby through his uncle, who was a medical officer with the club at the time, offering to help out with covering matches.
When the All-Ireland League was set up in the late 1980s, Laurence had been asked by members of Malone RFC if he would be interested in taking up a role as a medical officer with the club, a role he happily accepted.
That connection with the club became a story through the decades, as Laurence became the club’s President in 2001.
His next role following that was to become a club representative for over a decade, before he would become the Ulster Branch’s Junior Vice- President.
“That covers a lot of years, if anything, this role is like a long-service award!” Laurence jokes.
He describes his love for rugby by adding: “Apart from being a great game, it brings huge advantages to people in terms of friendship companionship, loyalty and it doesn’t matter about your background, anybody interested to play rugby is welcome.”
Ahead of the upcoming season, Laurence sees a lot of things to be positive about, both on and off the pitch.
“The last number of years have been challenging for all clubs. Last season was a turbulent season but I have to congratulate Denis Gardiner, who was a fantastic President for the way he dedicated himself in the role, across the professional and domestic side.
With the changes that have happened, with Hugh McCaughey coming in as CEO, I think that’s a fantastic appointment and I’m delighted he’s staying on in the role until the end of 2025. Head Coach, Richie Murphy, has made a great impact, with a big emphasis on our exciting young players in the squad."
Laurence adds that he hopes to see the continued growth of the Women and Girls game across Ulster, in addition to Ulster Rugby helping to support the Club game throughout the season.
Finally, he hopes to see the Ulster Rugby Foundation continue to raise funds throughout the upcoming year, raising money that will be used to help support grassroots rugby across the province.
On handing over the Presidential baton, outgoing President, Denis Gardiner, added: “I wish Laurence and his wife, Susan, all the very best for the upcoming season. I have no doubt that if he enjoys the role half as much as I did, he will really enjoy himself.”