Senior Rugby teams from across the Province were recently invited to Ulster Rugby’s Kingspan Stadium to launch the 2019/20 SONI Ulster Rugby Premiership, which will kick-off this Saturday 31st August.
The SONI Ulster Rugby Premiership includes 12 domestic senior rugby teams, which play in the All Ireland League. SONI’s new Managing Director Jo Aston and Ulster Rugby President Gary Leslie, along with the club captains attended the launch to celebrate the new season and the fifth year of SONI’s sponsorship.
The SURP (SONI Ulster Rugby Premiership) teams are split into two divisions with the winners of Division 1 awarded the prestigious Stevenson Shield. Last season saw Ballynahinch RFC win the 2018/19 title.
SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland), which is responsible for the safe, secure and reliable supply of electricity across communities in Northern Ireland, first began their sponsorship of the Premiership in 2015. Since then, SONI has sponsored, community partner, City of Armagh RFC’s Mini-Rugby Festival and rewarded clubs across Ulster with over £10,000 in bursaries through their popular Real Rugby Heroes competition.
Speaking at the launch, Jo Aston, Managing Director from SONI said:
“We are delighted to continue our support of the grassroots game for the fifth consecutive year. Club rugby at this level plays a vital role amongst local communities, providing an inclusive environment, regardless of age, gender and ability. Most of all, the game is an integral part of inspiring young people to better themselves and promotes team spirit.”
Chris Webster, Head of Rugby Development at Ulster Rugby said:
“SONI have been excellent supporters of domestic rugby in Ulster and we are delighted to have them as a sponsor for the fifth consecutive year. The SONI Ulster Rugby Premiership is among the most prestigious competitions in the domestic rugby calendar and we are looking forward to another exciting season ahead watching our top club teams in action.”
