The Ulster Rugby Foundation is delighted to unveil the 2026 Ulster Rugby Foundation Ambassadors ready for this Friday's fixture, 17 April (7:45pm KO) at Affidea Stadium, which will shine a spotlight on the work of the Ulster Rugby Foundation, and the players helping to champion it throughout the season.
Meet the 2026 Ambassadors
This year’s ambassador group brings together representatives from both the men’s and women’s squads, each with a strong connection to the Foundation’s mission.
Men’s Ambassadors
- Cormac Izuchukwu
- Harry Sheridan
- James McNabney
Women’s Ambassadors
- Niamh Marley
- India Daley
- Christy Hill
Supporting the Ulster Rugby Foundation
The Ulster Rugby Foundation plays a vital role across the province, using rugby to inspire, educate and connect communities.
As ambassadors, these players will:
- Support Foundation communications and campaigns throughout the season
- Attend key events including Foundation Day, Family Fun Days and fundraising initiatives
- Assist in securing unique raffle and auction prizes
- Champion the Foundation’s work both online and in person
- Act as a link between the professional teams, the Club and the wider community
This Ulster Rugby Foundation Day Fixture is sponsored by BL Refrigeration & Orto Pizza.
🤝 Ulster v Leinster
🗓 Friday 17 April, 7.45pm
🏟 Affidea Stadium
🏉 BKT United Rugby Championship, Round 15
🎟️ Secure your tickets here
Bringing the Foundation’s Pillars to Life
Each ambassador has been aligned to one of the Foundation’s three core pillars, helping to tell meaningful stories of rugbys impact across the season.
Women & Girls
Niamh Marley, India Daley and Christy Hill will champion the growth of the women’s game.
Niamh’s journey from a GAA background highlights the accessibility of rugby and the different pathways into the sport, while all three ambassadors represent strong role models both on and off the pitch, balancing rugby with careers and education.
Disability Rugby
Harry Sheridan will represent the Foundation’s disability strand through his involvement with the Malone Tornadoes.
His hands-on role supporting training and engaging with players reflects the inclusive power of rugby and the positive impact of community programmes.
Youth
Cormac Izuchukwu and James McNabney will highlight the importance of youth development within the game.
Both players have experienced the benefits of rugby from a young age, and through their ambassador roles will help inspire the next generation across Ulster.
A Season of Impact
Supporters attending Friday night’s fixture at Affidea Stadium will see the official launch of the ambassador programme, marking the beginning of a season-long commitment to supporting the Foundation.
Across the coming months, the ambassadors will feature in community visits, events, digital campaigns and fundraising initiatives, helping to amplify the Foundation’s work and its impact across the province.
Match Night Activities
Foundation Day offers an exciting lineup of events and activities for fans of all ages. Here’s what you can look forward to:
• Bring a Pound to the Ground
Foundation volunteers and ambassadors will be on the ground throughout the stadium, encouraging fans to support the “Bring a Pound to the Ground” initiative. Donation buckets will be located around the stadium, making it easy for supporters to contribute and make a difference.
• Half-Time Match Night Raffle
Don’t miss the Match Night Raffle taking place at half-time, with even more prizes than ever before up for grabs.
• Silent Auction
A special Foundation Day Silent Auction will go live on 3rd April, giving supporters the opportunity to bid on a range of exciting Ulster Rugby prizes. Items will include signed merchandise, unique experiences, and much more.
