Ulster School's Cup Final 2018

ULSTER SCHOOLS’ CUP FINAL THE ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH V CAMPBELL COLLEGE MONDAY 19TH MARCH 2018 - KINGSPAN STADIUM - KICK OFF 15.00

OFFICIAL MATCH DAY PROGRAMME • PRICE £3.00

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

As President of the IRFU Ulster Branch, it gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to Kingspan Stadium for today’s Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup Final between The Royal School Armagh and Campbell College, Belfast. PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

In particular, we extend a special welcome to the players from both teams, their coaches, parents and the teaching staff from both schools. As the second oldest cup competition in world rugby, the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup has a proud tradition dating back to 1876 when The Royal School Armagh defeated The Royal Belfast Academical Institution in the maiden final. Indeed, these two schools met in the semi-finals this year with the Armagh team recording a thrilling 26-22 win over ‘Inst’, who were chasing their fourth title in a row. For The Royal School Armagh, today marks a first Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup final appearance since 2004, when they beat today’s opposition, Campbell College, 14-5, to collect their ninth title. For Campbell College, they have gone on to contest three further finals since that 2004 decider, including the 2011 success, which brought their total outright titles to twenty- three, trailing only RBAI and Methodist College on the roll of honour. These two teams have been without doubt the most impressive in this year’s competition, and we are sure they will serve up a treat for all in attendance this afternoon. The Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup Final is a special occasion and, for many

of the players on the pitch today, it will be the pinnacle of their rugby careers, while for others, it may be the gateway to greater achievements in the future. Whatever the outcome, I trust that those involved will take away fond and long lasting memories. While the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup is the showpiece competition, a huge amount of time and work goes into organising the numerous schools’ competitions and programmes throughout the year. Our thanks and gratitude are due to the Ulster Schools’ Committee, chaired by Stephen Black, for their commitment, hard work and dedication. Indeed, our thanks are also due to all the schools in Ulster and their staff who are involved in giving so many young players the opportunity to play rugby. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Danske Bank for their continued and generous sponsorship of schools’ rugby in Ulster. This support has been extremely helpful in developing the game at schools’ level and is very much appreciated. Finally, best of luck to both teams and I hope everyone has a very memorable day at Kingspan Stadium. Graffin Parke President, IRFU Ulster Branch

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DANSKE BANK WELCOME

It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the 2017/18 Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup Final. WELCOME FROM DANSKE BANK

We’re now in our thirteenth year of our partnership with Ulster Schools’ Cup rugby and are very proud of our association with this historic competition. The Schools’ Cup is one of the most eagerly awaited events in the sporting calendar, with a strong following of pupils past, present and future from across the Province. This year’s final will see two previous winners, Campbell College and The Royal School, Armagh go head to head. Over the years we have seen how the Schools’ Cup has showcased the skills and talent of exceptional young players; helping open the door to a professional career and in many cases an international career too. We are making more possible for local communities and are privileged that we can do this through our partnerships with not only Ulster Schools’ Cup rugby, but also through our other partnerships with the Northern Ireland Schools’ Football Association (NISFA) and Ulster Schools’ GAA. I would like pay tribute to the tireless work of the Ulster Branch, who alongside the Ulster Schools’ Committee, make this tournament

possible. I’d also like to acknowledge the welcome they have shown to Danske Bank employees, some of the competition’s most avid fans, at the many events and fixtures leading up to this final. For the players from Campbell College and The Royal School, Armagh, this is the most important match of their school rugby career. Dedication, skill and sheer sporting talent has led them to this final, a defining game which will be the pinnacle of their young sporting careers. Both teams have produced exciting displays of rugby, fuelled by passion and determination, to make it to this final and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the teams, their captains, teachers and supporters. On behalf of everyone at Danske Bank, I wish both teams the very best of luck on this memorable occasion. Kevin Kingston Chief Executive Of cer Danske Bank UK

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On behalf of the Schools’ Committee, it is a great pleasure to welcome everyone to Kingspan Stadium this afternoon for what promises to be an intriguing Danske Bank Schools’ Cup Final, contested by the Royal School Armagh and Campbell College. WELCOME FROM STEPHEN BLACK

Over the 142 year history of the competition, these two famous schools have appeared in many finals with the Royal School Armagh recording nine wins and Campbell College being victorious in twenty-three finals, in addition to sharing the trophy on four occasions. Despite such a rich history within the competition, the schools have, perhaps surprisingly, met each other only once in a final. On that occasion, in 2004, Royal School Armagh emerged victorious by a 14 -5 score-line. Today represents the Armagh school’s first Schools’ Cup Final since that day in contrast to their opponents who reached the final in 2006, 2011 and 2016, recording victory in 2011 over RBAI. It is worth noting that the victorious Campbell College team of 2011, captained by John Creighton who has gone on to represent Ulster “A”, included Rory Scholes, now with Connacht, and Chris Farrell, who has made a big impression this season with Munster and Ireland. From the Royal School Armagh’s perspective, their 2004 captain, John McCall, had already received international age grade representation, before his untimely passing, while the squad also included Willie Faloon, now Director of Rugby at RSA, having previously represented Ulster and Connacht. It would seem safe to assume that today’s teams will include individuals who will,

who captained the Danske Bank Ulster U18 Schools squad which last September won the Interprovincial Championship for the first time in twelve years. The squad also included his school team-mates, Harry Owens, Ben Power, Conor Rankin and Jack Stinson together with Ryan O’Neill of the Royal School Armagh. Turning to today, we look forward to the prospect of two well respected teams marking the occasion with an enjoyable and high quality game. Both schools have displayed impressive form in recent weeks and the Royal School Armagh enter the game with real confidence, having defeated their opponents earlier this season at Fox’s Field and with some members of the squad having been part of the team which won the Danske Bank Medallion Shield Final at Kingspan Stadium in 2017. However, they will have been reminded of the considerable challenge offered by their rivals in this year’s Danske Bank Medallion Shield, where they relinquished their trophy following defeat at the East Belfast venue in Round 4 of the competition. Since then, their Medallion XV has gone on to lift the Danske Bank Medallion Plate with victory over Sullivan Upper School while the Campbell College team reached the Danske Bank Medallion Shield Final before losing narrowly to Ballymena Academy. The success of the schools in both competitions highlights their current rugby-playing strength whilst paying tribute to the influence of their coaches at all levels. The sides have had similar routes to the final with both schools facing “seeded” opposition at both Quarter-Final and Semi-Final stages, having had comfortable victories in Round 4 against “unseeded” opposition. Having defeated Dalriada School, Campbell College’s victories were a narrow victory in their Quarter-Final at home to Ballymena Academy before overcoming

SCHOOLS’ COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN one day, be playing at a similar level. Indeed, Matthew Agnew, Matthew Dalton, James Hume, Angus Kernohan and Tom O’Toole who represented Bangor Grammar School, BRA, RBAI, Ballymena Academy and Campbell

College in the Danske Bank Schools’ Cup last season were members of the Ireland U20 team which defeated Scotland U20 two weeks ago. For some of today’s players, initial steps have already been taken on a similar pathway through representation at various age groups including John McKee, from Campbell College,

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their old rivals Methodist College in the Semi- Final at the Kingspan Stadium. For the Royal School Armagh, a comprehensive victory over Cambridge House Grammar School in their first game in the competition was followed by triumphs over strongly fancied opposition in Wallace High School and RBAI, the Cup holders, in the Quarter-Final and Semi-Final respectively. All of these contests proved to be excellent advertisements for our schools’ game, not only in terms of the quality of rugby on show but also in the atmosphere provided by the supporters from all the schools. I look forward to similar excellence both on and off the field today. The Schools’ Committee, and all our schools, are indebted to Danske Bank for their continued support and generosity without which we would struggle to meet all the demands of our competitions, never mind our representative squads and player development programmes. I am delighted to welcome their Chief Executive, Kevin Kingston, and other Danske Bank representatives to what represents their 13th Schools’ Cup Final as our sponsors and to thank them for all they do on our behalf. Similarly, I am pleased that many of the Principals and Masters i/c Rugby from our participating schools are also joining us today. Without their support and continued commitment to the game, rugby in Ulster could not flourish. I hope that they enjoy the occasion and the rare opportunity to socialise with colleagues away from the normal day-to-day challenges which they face. Another group to whom the Schools’ Committee owes much gratitude for their assistance throughout the season is the Ulster Society of Rugby Football Referees and I offer best wishes to today’s officials, led by referee Johnny Erskine. I hope they have an enjoyable game without controversy. There are many people working behind the scenes to ensure the success of schools’ rugby and the development of schools’ players in Ulster and I thank them all: the members of the Schools’ Committee for their dedication to develop our game and the administration of all our competitions; the administrative staff at Ulster Rugby, particularly Jill and Lesley; our

PRO, ‘Barney’ McGonigle who ensures that schools’ rugby gets unsurpassed coverage in the press; the Ulster Rugby professional staff, under the direction of Kieran Campbell, who are supporting the development of players and coaches in schools and, of course, all those coaches and assistants who are working with our young players. Without this contribution, schools’ rugby in Ulster would be in a much poorer place. Finally, I trust that today will be an occasion to remember with all involved proving themselves as excellent ambassadors for their schools and for our great game. I wish the coaches, under the leadership of Willie Faloon and Brian Robinson, and the players from both schools all the best for today… may the better side win. Stephen W Black Chairman Ulster Schools’ Committee

SCHOOLS’ COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN

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TODAY'S CAPTAINS

MEET THE CAPTAINS

Jack began playing rugby at the age of five with Monaghan RFC progressing through their mini section up to Under 12’s and as boarder at the Royal School he has been heavily involved in rugby throughout his time there. Having participated in two Medallion Shield campaigns, in his 5th form he was a 1st XV starting player, prior to sustaining a season ending injury in just September of that year. He became an influential figure in the RSA team that narrowly lost to MCB in last year’s Schools Cup Quarter Final and this season has been one of RSA’s leading try scorers with 12 tries, including 3 in the team’s cup run to date. Throughout his rugby career Jack has also continued to play Gaelic Football for his native club Tyholland GFC, with his greatest sporting inspiration coming from fellow Monaghan man and RSA legend Tommy Bowe. Jack hopes to emulate the Schools Cup winning success of inspirational coach and Old Armachian Willie Faloon, when he leads the Royal School side into their first Schools Cup Final since 2004. On concluding his time at the Royal School Armagh, Jack hopes to study Software Engineering at Queens University. JACK TREANOR THE ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH

JOHN McKEE CAMPBELL COLLEGE

John has played rugby for Campbell College Belfast (CCB) since P4 in Campbell College Junior School. He credits the CCB coaches, throughout the whole club, for his development as a player and is grateful for the opportunities he has been given through rugby. Having played for the CCB 1st XV for three years, John has also been selected for Ulster U18 Schools twice and had the opportunity to captain the side to victory in the Irish Schools’ Interprovincial Championship in Sept 2107. Despite now having three caps for Ireland U18 Schools under his belt John remains humble attributing those achievements to all the players and coaches who helped his development throughout the years. Campbell College Rugby Football Club is a special environment that creates long-lasting friendships and John has had the honour of captaining the club this year. In following the example of two excellent captains, James Boyle and James Nelson, John hopes to lead the group today as strongly as he has been led. CCB have great respect for Armagh, and their journey to the Schools’ Cup Final. Both John and his teammates know that they have a huge challenge on their hands today but the backing of the Campbell College supporters (unofficially ‘The Black Brigade’) has a huge emotional impact on the players. John is confident that if his team could lift that famous trophy today, it would be the perfect reward for all those coaches, players and supporters who have invested so much in Campbell College the game of Rugby.

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MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS! “Meet you under the Memorial Clock? In about an hour? They’ll all be there waiting, OK?”

It’s a familiar arrangement, made annually, by team-mates of many generations, a sporting rite of early Spring, which makes the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup Final a very special day in the calendar. Of course, normally the decider for rugby’s second oldest trophy takes place on St. Patrick’s Day, and the ‘drowning of the shamrock’ offered a happy confluence for comradely reunions and a unique rugby occasion. Since 1876, when one of today’s combatants, Royal School, Armagh, carved its name in the Cup as the inaugural winners, the Final has been the ultimate aspiration for players, parents and extended families across the Province. As the competition gathered its rich history and accumulated a well-deserved prestige the target of appearing in, or watching in well-controlled displays of partisanship, the Schools’ Cup Final has retained and embellished its allure. Not even the rather itinerant 40 years until a permanent venue was found and secured at Ravenhill Park denied the growing lustre associated with the best teams from around the Province – and on one celebrated occasion Galway! – contesting the unusual trophy, a Cup mounted on a wooden shield. From the crisp Saturday mornings of early January, at first, the expectations of the lofty and the humble rose as the chunky sweaters, waterproof layers and vivid scarves were wrapped around bodies which would line the touchlines, noisy and unrelentingly biased! The tournament format has changed in more recent years to reflect the disparity in resources and physical terms, but for a century and more the David and Goliath tussles of the early rounds inspired the most unlikely dreams. Could the players of Antrim Grammar lower the colours of the regal Methody, could Belfast ‘Inst’ be despatched home, downcast, after a visit to Cambridge House?

Usually the ‘natural order’ prevailed, but not so inevitably that twelve months later the very same earnest hopes to achieve the unlikely did not emerge just as enthusiastically as every year the Schools’ Cup hove into view. It would be naïve to think or believe that the pure innocence of those days live on, but the instincts survive and very healthily. Optimism marks the start of every edition of this most respected of rugby competitions. It maintains its primary, historic purpose of offering the opportunity to experience the wonder that is schools sport, where character is shaped and built, where team spirit is generated, and where academe and sport cannot just co-exist but incentivise each other. The Schools’ Cup, of course, has spread its wings, to the immense credit of volunteer administrators of imagination and commitment to the game and to the boys, and girls, who enjoy the thrill of competition. There are subsidiary tournaments so that dreams are not shattered, seasons not ended, in a frosty 70 minutes in January. One of the most acknowledged is the Medallion Shield - which Campbell College had hoped would have already been in the 2018 trophy cabinet at Belmont – is as fiercely contested and hugely respected, its reputation for affording a stage for those players who have, perhaps, an eye on a St. Patrick’s Day senior Final at Kingspan Stadium a few years on. As the professional game flourished and the rugby gospel was spreading it remained a constant that it was in our schools that rugby was cherished still, where mainly amateur coaches give so generously of their time and experience to allow their young charges a glimpse of just what a rewarding sport they can enjoy: and where some values which will serve all well in life and work are core and sacred. Today the teams which have earned the right to play in front of a huge crowd - and a big ‘live’

GUEST ARTICLE: ROD NAWN

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ARTICLE BY ROD NAWN FREELANCE JOURNALIST AND SPORTS ENTHUSIAST @RODNAWN1

BBC television audience - on a day when school sport is celebrated across many codes are not unfamiliar with the descending on ‘HQ’ for the Final. The Royal School Armagh was the first name etched on the original shield 142 years ago, and nine times it has been carried high back to the Orchard County. The thrilling rugby of both sides in the semi-final two weeks ago holds out the promise of some expansive attacking play this afternoon. That RBAI sought and fought so bravely for a fourth successive success only to concede to the ‘out-of-towners’ provided a match which summed up much about the Schools’ Cup and the joy it can create, the pride it has in its players, spectators and institutions. Campbell College’s short trips to Kingspan have been more frequent perhaps, and it is rightly proud of the 27 times the Cup has been lifted by the young men in black. Today, John McKee has the privilege of leading the side out, a team and a squad guided by that most impressive of former Irish No.8s Brian Robinson, assisted by Neil Doak, making a swift return to familiar surroundings. His time as a player and then during his spell as Ulster’s Head Coach were marked by an instinct for attack and for players to show initiative, qualities on show in spades in the intriguing and tactically compelling defeat of Methodist College in the first semi-final a fortnight ago. In the nearby dugout Doak – who is deservedly returning to the top of the professional game with Worcester next season – will be one of his former players. Willie Faloon was a flanker for Ulster to whom the adjective teak-tough could have been invented, and athlete whose career was blighted at critical times by injury. He has taken to his coaching duties at the school which provided him with one of his great sporting moments as a young man. Against, coincidentally, Campbell College he was a key part of a splendid Armagh team which won the 2004 Final. His skipper this afternoon is hooker Jack Treanor, a mobile, hardworking forward who leads by

robust example. Like his counterpart McKee he is very aware that though the players carry the hopes, expectations and real affection of their supporters they must focus on 70 potentially gruelling minutes when the all-round skills and collective adaptability of each team will be thoroughly examined. In 2004 a red-haired back-rower with a magnificently combative skillset walked up to raise the Danske Ulster Schools’ Cup aloft, ending a 27-year drought. The ebullient John McCall’s place in Final history is writ large because of his deeds on the pitch that day and his carriage off it. Only ten days later John died, struck so cruelly down by an undetected heart condition while wearing the green of Ireland in the Under 19 World Cup in South Africa. On a day when everyone, of all ages and genders, always celebrate the game of rugby it won’t be surprising if thoughts, at times, turn smilingly to John.

GUEST ARTICLE: ROD NAWN

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GOOD LUCK FROM THE HEAD BOYS

A MESSAGE OF SUPPORT

As Head Boy of the Royal School Armagh I would like to take this opportunity to wish the 1st XV rugby squad the best of luck in the 2018 Schools Cup Final. This year marks 14 years since the school triumphed over Campbell College in 2004, captained by the late John McCall. That day Ethan Allen and Lee Ruddock were try scorers in the 14-5 victory. The current squad are fortunate to have two members of that squad on the coaching staff, Willie Faloon and James McCall. The squad have made a lot of sacrifices throughout the year to put themselves in this position with every game since September preparing them for this occasion. Countless hours have been spent on the pitches and in the gym, working alongside coaches to give the 2018 squad the greatest chance of success. All members of the squad, players and coaches alike, have been totally committed to their goal of Schools Cup success. Today it is our wish as a school that this goal may be achieved and that the Schools Cup trophy might make a long overdue return to Armagh. This is a squad which have so often been labelled underdogs however after big wins away to Wallace HS and against RBAI confidence within the squad is high and the players will be looking to finish off the season with a final victory before their summer tour to France. On behalf of the students of the Royal School Armagh I would like to wish both teams the best of luck and may the best team win. MATTHEW REANEY THE ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH

JOHN HARRISON CAMPBELL COLLEGE

For Campbellians it is a great honour to represent the school in any way we can and we see success in various fields. For myself particularly, being a part of this 1st XV has been one of many highlights of seven years at Campbell. The rugby club, under Mr. Robinson and Mr. McKinney, provides treasured memories for all who take part from wet and muddy Saturday mornings to occasions like today. A tour to South Africa in the summer will be recalled fondly for many years to come. As a player, I must thank all those who have facilitated our experience over the last year. The coaches have not only developed playing ability but also have created an environment in which rugby is enjoyed and where lasting friendships can be forged. To staff, family, friends, Old Campbellians and fellow pupils thank you for your support this year. Most rewarding of all for us as a team is to see the Campbell community celebrating success alongside ourselves. Our confidence has been bolstered by this support following three tough cup encounters against Dalriada, Ballymena and Methody. Best of luck to Armagh, I hope we can create a game worthy of the occasion and I believe these teams have the ability to do so. Finally to my team mates, as strange as this may seem, best of luck boys! We know the challenge ahead and look forward to it, the whole school is supporting us. Play with pride in yourselves and the jersey one more time. Bring that famous trophy back to Campbell!

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MICHAEL CAMPBELL

BENJI BOYD Out Half 19.11.00 175cm 68kg —

JONNY AGNEW

Full Back 27.11.00 181cm 76kg —

Prop 25.05.01 182cm 85kg Ulster U17 Development Squad

ADAM EDGAR

GRAHAM CRAWFORD

JACK CHAPMAN

Prop 31.08.00 183cm 84kg —

Flanker 19.05.00 190cm 85kg —

Prop 24.03.00 183cm 86kg —

RYAN FINLAY 2nd Row 09.02.02 187cm 89kg —

BEN HUGHES

NICHOLAS JENNINGS

Prop 10.12.00 180cm 87kg —

Wing 27.07.00 188cm 100kg

Ulster U18 Schools & Ulster U18 Schools 7's

JOSH KING

ALEX JOHNSTON

SAMUEL KING 2nd Row 16.02.00 192cm 85kg —

Flanker 19.02.02 183cm 76kg Ulster U16 Development Squad

Scrum Half 13.01.01 175cm 70kg —

ROMAIN MORROW Out Half 15.11.01 181cm 73kg —

ARCHIE McALPINE 2nd Row 30.08.99 194cm 110kg —

BEN LAVERY

Wing 17.12.00 186cm 78kg —

THE ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH SQUAD 2017/18

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RYAN O'NEILL

MATTHEW REANEY

Number 8 03.07.00 186cm 90kg Ulster U18 Schools

Centre 28.09.99 180cm 83kg —

THE ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH SQUAD 2017/18

SAM RAINEY

PETER TAYLOR

JUDE ROBERTS

Prop 14.08.01 180cm 97kg —

Number 8 24.10.01 187cm 88kg —

Prop 13.12.01 185cm 92kg Ulster U17 Development Squad

CALLUM WHITESIDE

JACK TREANOR

ZAC THOMPSON

Wing 13.04.00 186cm 87kg —

Hooker 03.03.00 180cm 86kg —

Centre 13.10.99 184cm 84kg —

AARON WOODS

CHARLIE WORTH

OLIVER WEBB

Flanker 05.03.01 184cm 80kg —

Scrum half 01.10.01 179cm 75kg Ulster U17 Development Squad

Wing 24.03.00 184cm 76kg —

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15

1

MICHAEL CAMPBELL

JACK CHAPMAN

14

2

OLIVER WEBB

JACK TREANOR C

13

3

JONNY AGNEW

ZAC THOMPSON

12

4

RYAN FINLAY

MATTHEW REANEY

11

5

SAMUEL KING

NICHOLAS JENNINGS

6

10

AARON WOODS

ROMAIN MORROW

7

9

GRAHAM CRAWFORD

CHARLIE WORTH

S RAINEY A EDGAR REPLACEMENTS 16 17 18 19

20 21

J KING A JOHNSTON C WHITESIDE PTAYLOR

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A McALPINE J ROBERTS 22 23 THE ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH TEAM

RYAN O’NEILL

TODAY’S OFFICIALS

OLLEGE

REFEREE JONNY ERSKINE ASSISTANT REFEREES MARK PATTON | OISIN QUINN | ADRIAN REAVEY | VINCENT HUGHES

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LS’ CUP FINAL ST XV SQUAD 2017/18 SPAN STADIUM - KICK OFF 15.00

ULSTER SCHO THE ROYAL SCHOOL ARM MONDAY 19th MARCH 2018 - KIN

LS’ CUP FINAL GH 1ST XV SQUAD 2017/18 SPAN STADIUM - KICK OFF 15.00

ULSTER SCHO CAMPBELL COLLEGE MONDAY 19th MARCH 2018 - KIN

15

1

JOHN McKEE C

CONOR RANKIN

14

2

HARRY JENKINS

WILL DAVIS

CAMPBELL COLLEGE TEAM

13

3

JAMIE MACARTNEY

PATRICK McALPINE

12

4

BEN POWER

OISIN KIERNAN

11

5

REX TINSLEY

JOHN HARRISON

6

10

JACK STINSON

OSCAR YANDALL

7

9

SAM ROBINSON

DARA GASKIN

REPLACEMENTS

16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23

J GILDEA M CARLISLE M POOR J JOHNSTON

J BRENNAN L YANDALL H OWENS K ROBERTSON

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TOBI OLANIYAN

S

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WILL DAVIS

MATTHEW CARLISLE

JAMIE BRENNAN

Wing 26.01.00 183cm 73kg —

Hooker 26.06.00 180cm 84kg —

Flanker 05.02.01 183cm 85kg Glasgow U16, U18 Sco U16

JOHN HARRISON 2nd Row 15.08.99 193cm 89kg — OISIN KIERNAN 2nd Row 12.12.99 194cm 112kg Ulster Schools

JOHN GILDEA

DARAGH GASKIN

Prop 15.04.01 180cm 110kg —

Scrum Half 11.09.01 177cm 77kg —

JAMES JOHNSTON

HARRY JENKINS

Flanker 01.09.00 180cm 89kg —

Hooker 26.06.00 180cm 84kg —

U18, Ulster clubs U18, Ulster U19 Ireland U18

JAMIE MACARTNEY

PATRICK McALPINE

JACK McALISTER

Centre 14.10.99 185cm 96kg Ulster U17, U18, U19 Ireland U18

Prop 22.11.01 194cm 110kg —

Wing 04.01.00 172cm 75kg —

JOHN McKEE

HARRY OWENS

TOBI OLANIYAN

CAMPEBLL COLLEGE SQUAD 2017/18 22 www.danskebankschoolscup.com Loose Prop 15.02.00 184cm 109kg Ulster & Ireland Schools, Ulster U18 Captain No. 8 12.11.00 181cm 90kg — Centre 09.10.00 181cm 87kg Ulster U18

CONOR RANKIN Full Back 27.05.01 185cm 84kg

BEN POWER

MATTHEW POOR 2nd Row 21.05.01 195cm 120kg —

Centre 15.06.99 184cm 90kg Ulster & Ireland U18

Ulster U16, U17 & U18

CAMPEBLL COLLEGE SQUAD 2017/18

SAM ROBINSON

JACK STINSON

KIERION ROBERTSON

Flanker 04.01.00 181cm 85kg —

Flanker 19.10.00 189cm 83kg Ulster U18 & U19

Wing 31.10.00 185cm 79kg —

REX TINSLEY

LUCAS YANDALL

OSCAR YANDALL Out Half 09.12.99 181cm 81kg Ulster U18

Wing 23.10.00 181cm 85kg —

Scrum Half 09.12.99 170cm 65kg —

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THE ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH

WILLIE FALOON HEAD COACH Willie is a former pupil of the Royal School Armagh attending from 1998 – 2005, honing his rugby skills under the expertise of Kenny Hooks and Dave Eakin, during this time he was part of the last RSA side to lift the Schools Cup in 2004. He went on to enjoy a successful professional rugby career representing Ulster, Connacht and the Irish Wolfhounds before finishing his career at Ulster. He was Forwards coach at City of Armagh RFC for two seasons before taking up the reins as Head Coach this season. MEET THE COACHES

CHRIS PARKER BACKS COACH Chris is a former pupil of Wallace High School and taught for a short time at Ballymena Academy before being appointed to teach Geography in the Royal School seven years ago. During that time, he has worked with many teams throughout the school and this is his third year with the 1st XV. Outside of school he is Backs Coach at City of Armagh RFC working alongside Willie and Ali Birch. In his spare time Chris enjoys spending time with his wife and new-born son Ben as well as socialising with friends and reading autobiographies.

JAMES McCALL FORWARDS COACH

James is another former pupil of the Royal School Armagh attending from 1999 – 2006, he was one of the youngest members of the Schools Cup Team in 2004 when he won the trophy alongside his brother and captain John McCall. This is James first season as part of the coaching team and he has been working with the forwards and leading the Strength and Conditioning aspect of training. Outside of rugby James has a keen interest in Strength & Conditioning, keeping fit and spending time with his wife and two young daughters.

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CAMPBELL COLLEGE

MEET THE COACHES

NEIL DOAK HEAD COACH

BRIAN ROBINSON SENIOR XV COACH

JOHNNY CUPITT BACKS/ATTACKS COACH At Age Grade level Johnny played for Ulster Schools’, Irish Schools’ and Ulster U21. This experience, coupled with a club career which included Ballymena, Instonians, Portadown and CIYMS, has helped him develop a coaching style which takes into consideration the varying talents of any group with which he is involved. While at Campbell, Johnny coached the Medallion XV, sharing the Shield in 2009- 2010, before winning the competition outright in 2012- 2013. As Backs/Attacks Coach he has led the Campbell to the Schools’ Cup Final in 2016 and 2018.

Neil's 20 years association with Ulster Rugby began as a player when he made his debut at scrum half in 1990 against the President's XV. He went on to win 85 caps for Ulster before retiring in 2005 to concentrate on his coaching career. Neil led the development of the Ulster U19, U20 and 'A' sides and was quickly promoted to the Ulster senior set-up. Along with Brian McLaughlin, he helped to steer the Irish Province to the Heineken Cup final at Twickenham in 2012. Appointed Ulster Rugby Head Coach in October 2014, Neil led Ulster to an ERCC quarter-final, a PRO12 final an two PRO12 semi-finals. Leaving Ulster at the end of the 2016/17 season, Neil took on coaching roles at Campbell College and Queen's University.

Brian is a past pupil of Cambridge House Grammar School, Ballymena, and a former Irish international. From 1991 to 1994, he played as a number eight for Ireland winning 25 caps and scoring 6 tries. He was part of the Ireland squad at the 1991 Rugby World Cup where he scored four tries in a match against Zimbabwe. He represented the Ulster senior XV champions from 1987 to 1994 and before that was part of the Ulster U20s set-up. He has held the role of Campbell College Senior XV Coach since 1995 leading the school to 3 cup wins. Throughout all of this time he has brought a wealth of experience and knowledge to the many and various roles undertaken. His coaching career also includes Ulster Schools’, Ulster U20s, Irish Schools’, Belfast Harlequins and Queen’s University.

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Held on International Women's Day, Ulster Rugby’s 'Lessons from Sport & Business’ Conference celebrated females leading the way in their field.

The event was part of the Women's Rugby World Cup Legacy project, funded by Sport NI and the Department for Communities within the 'Active, Fit & Sporty' programme, and proved a great success. Here’s a snapshot of what some participants said…

#PRESSFORPROGRESS

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GIRLS' SECONDARY SCHOOLS' RUGBY UPDATE

GIRLS’ SCHOOLS’ SENIOR 7s FINAL The 2018 Danske Bank Girls Schools' Senior 7s Final will be a showdown between Monaghan Collegiate and Enniskillen Royal Grammar School at Kingspan Stadium on Wednesday 21st March, kick-off 12pm.

GIRLS’ SCHOOLS’ JUNIOR 7s FINAL The Danske Bank Junior Girls’ 7s Schools Cup Final will take place at Mid-Ulster Sports Arena on Thursday 22nd March, 11am - 2pm. On the same day at the same venue there will also be a provincial tournament for all Junior and Senior team non-finalists. GIRLS’ TAG SCHOOLS’ CUP FINAL Friday 20th April will see secondary school girls battle it out in the Girls’ Tag Schools’ Cup Final in a bid to take home the coveted Danske Bank Ulster Girls' Schools Tag Cup. This fantastic one-day event will take place at Mid-Ulster Sports Arena, 11am – 2pm.

GIRLS' RUGBY UPDATE

Tickets for this fixture are on sale now from just £4 for adults and £2 for children. To purchase tickets, visit www.ulsterrugby.com/buytickets or contact the Ulster Rugby ticket office for more information - (028) 9049 3222 (option 2).

Recent Girls' Tag Rugby Blitz held at the Mid-Ulster Sports Arena, Cooktown

If you would like further information on any of the above please contact Ulster Rugby's Female Rugby Officer by emailing Neal.Johnston@Ulsterrugby.com or calling 07767 115 764.

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MAN IN THE MIDDLE JONNY ERSKINE

Jonny Erskine knows a thing or two about being the man in the middle having racked up nine years of refereeing. After just four seasons refereeing for Ulster, his singular talent pushed him onto the IRFU national panel where he has refereed at the highest level in the domestic game and had the opportunity to run the line at both PRO14 and European matches. We caught up with him to get his thoughts on the challenges of refereeing the most anticipated domestic game of the season.

school and my boys in school dream about the Ulster Schools’ Cup and I know rugby schools across the province are exactly the same so being the guy with the best seat in the house for that final is a brilliant experience and one I’m really looking forward to. What challenges do you face refereeing such a hyped-up game? I guess the biggest challenge is that it is such an emotionally charged event for the players, for the schools and for staff. On the one hand, it’s being aware of that on the other it’s being able to do my job regardless of that. So, I think that’s the biggest challenge - being aware of the hype and emotion but not getting caught up in it and staying focused on what I’m there to do. How do you prepare for a game like this? We spend all season preparing. Every time we have an All-Ireland League match or a British Irish cup match we are assessed, we’re reviewed, we watch video footage, we reflect on that and try to get better as a referee, so I suppose all of that process provides the preparation for matches and experiences like this today. For this match, in particular, I was trying not to do anything too different in preparation. I still went through the same kind of fitness training, I still went through my own personal preparation and prepared with the team of officials in the same way to make sure that we are doing all the things that we can to not be noticed too much on the field. Which referee do you most admire and why? Of all time, I suppose it would be Alain Rolland just because of the standard that he set in Irish

How did you get into refereeing? I was recovering from a shoulder injury. I had dislocated my shoulder nine times playing rugby and I was just starting my PGCE for teaching so I did my rugby coaching and referees course at the same time. As I was recovering I took up more refereeing and I really enjoyed it. It’s kind of just gone from there. I teach in Banbridge Academy, I coach rugby in school there as well and pretty much every weekend of the season I referee in the All Ireland League or the British & Irish Cup or I run the line in PRO14 or Europe. What key skills are required to be a good referee? For me, empathy is a massive one, at the end of the day, guys are trying to play a sport. They’re trying to express themselves so having empathy with what they’re trying to do is very important. One of the key skills required is the ability to communicate clearly. Obviously, as a referee you’re there to enforce the laws and to ensure that the game is played so good communication skills with the players is essential. Also, I think a good skill for any referee is being able to analyse and reflect on your performance to identify areas for personal improvement so that you don’t stand still and are getting better as a referee.

REFEREE PROFILE: JONNY ERSKINE The Schools' Cup Final is the most anticipated domestic game of the season - how do you feel about being the man in the middle?

The Schools’ Cup Final is the single biggest domestic game in Ulster bar none. With the passion of the crowds, the colours, the noise, the old school alumni coming out for the day as well, what’s not to love? I’m a teacher. I coach boys in

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refereeing right up to the pinnacle which is refereeing in the World Cup. And the fact that after a playing career he was refereeing right into his early 50s is pretty impressive. At the moment, in terms of current referees I have great respect for Wayne Barnes. I think he is one of the best referees in the world. He’s an excellent communicator and I think he has real empathy and a lack of arrogance in his refereeing style which is very admirable. What was your favourite match that you officiated? Last season Rugby School over in England hosted an International Schools’ Sevens Tournament and they had invited rugby schools from all over the world to participate in it. Obviously, Rugby School is the birth place of rugby. I was fortunate enough to referee the Final of the Sevens Tournament on the pitch where rugby was created so that stands out as a real highlight for me. Most memorable refereeing experience? It’s brilliant being involved in big games. I’ve run the line for Europe and in Champions Cup and those are always special nights just the way they are for supporters they are special as well for officials. There is always that extra buzz around the place as there is clearly more on the line. Being involved in any of those big games is a pretty class. Looking back to your very first refereeing experience - what advice would you give your younger self about refereeing? Stick at it and keep trying to get better. Even on days where you think and both teams probably think that you weren’t that great, take the learning away from those days and then move on to the next match. Don’t get bogged down in just one match and stay focused on improvement. You were named Ulster Rugby Referee of the year in 2017 – how did that achievement make you feel? It was an honour to be recognised but it’s very much an accumulation of the work and

dedication of a lot of people who have helped me to become a referee. I teach and coach rugby in Banbridge Academy. Both the rugby coaches and the Principle have been very accommodating and supportive of my refereeing which has been a great encouragement. I was very honoured to get that award, it was pretty humbling. With reference to refereeing – what are your ambitions for the rest of 2018? Next month I’ll be refereeing France Universities against England Universities over in the South of France so I’m really looking forward to that. I suppose I’ve refereed up to the highest level in Ireland domestically and I’ve refereed in the British and Irish Cup so I want to see if I can push on to referee either at international underage level or possibly even to referee professional teams.

REFEREE PROFILE: JONNY ERSKINE

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DANSKE BANK ULSTER SCHOOLS’ CUP ROUTE TO THE FINAL

ROUND 1

CARRICKFERGUS GRAMMAR SCHOOL

14 STRABANE ACADEMY

12

WELLINGTON COLLEGE

12

BELFAST HIGH SCHOOL

22

ROUND 2

PORTADOWN COLLEGE LARNE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

36 LIMAVADY GRAMMAR SCHOOL

5

0 LURGAN COLLEGE

14 22 40

CAMBRIDGE HOUSE GRAMMAR SCHOOL CARRICKFERGUS GRAMMAR SCHOOL

34 BANBRIDGE ACADEMY

17

REGENT HOUSE SCHOOL

RAINEY ENDOWED SCHOOL GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL

40 BELFAST HIGH SCHOOL 37 ANTRIM GRAMMAR SCHOOL 0 DROMORE HIGH SCHOOL

15

7

FOYLE COLLEGE

17

ROUND 3

LURGAN COLLEGE

3 DOWN HIGH SCHOOL 13 PORTADOWN COLLEGE

44

RAINEY ENDOWED SCHOOL GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL COLERAINE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

5

7 ROYAL SCHOOL, DUNGANNON 29 FRIENDS' SCHOOL, LISBURN 8 BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL

23

13

OMAGH ACADEMY

8 7

REPLAY: BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAMBRIDGE HOUSE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

19 OMAGH ACADEMY

17 REGENT HOUSE SCHOOL 19 SULLIVAN UPPER SCHOOL

13

BELFAST ROYAL ACADEMY DROMORE HIGH SCHOOL

25 27

11

DALRIADA SCHOOL

ROUND 4

ROUTE TO THE FINAL BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL CAMPBELL COLLEGE

12 RAINEY ENDOWED SCHOOL

3 0 0

50 DALRIADA SCHOOL

ROYAL BELFAST ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION 17 BALLYCLARE HIGH SCHOOL

ENNISKILLEN ROYAL GS CAMBRIDGE HOUSE GS SULLIVAN UPPER SCHOOL

10 BALLYMENA ACADEMY 0 ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH 20 DOWN HIGH SCHOOL 3 METHODIST COLLEGE 5 WALLACE HIGH SCHOOL

28 45

13

COLERAINE GRAMMAR SCHOOL ROYAL SCHOOL DUNGANNON QUARTER FINALS

38 38

CAMPBELL COLLEGE

12 BALLYMENA ACADEMY

10

ROYAL BELFAST ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION 29 SULLIVAN UPPER

3

WALLACE HIGH SCHOOL METHODIST COLLEGE SEMI FINALS

14 ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH 53 BANGOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL

22 10

ROYAL BELFAST ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION 22 ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH

26

CAMPBELL COLLEGE

17 METHODIST COLLEGE

8

FINAL

CAMPBELL COLLEGE

ROYAL SCHOOL ARMAGH

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DANSKE BANK SUBSIDIARY SHIELD QUARTER FINALS

DALRIADA SCHOOL

7 ENNISKILLEN ROYAL GS

5 8 6 5

DOWN HS

27 ROYAL SCHOOL DUNGANNON

COLERAINE GRAMMAR SCHOOL BALLYCLARE HIGH SCHOOL

17

CAMBRIDGE HOUSE GS

26 RAINEY ENDOWED SCHOOL

SEMI FINALS

DOWN HS

36 COLERAINE GRAMMAR SCHOOL 12 BALLYCLARE HIGH SCHOOL

7

ROUTE TO THE FINAL

DALRIADA SCHOOL

15

FINAL

BALLYCLARE HIGH SCHOOL

V

DOWN HS

DANSKE BANK SCHOOLS' BOWL QUARTER FINALS

FRIENDS’ SCHOOL LISBURN

24 DROMORE HS 10 REGENT HOUSE 17 GROSVENOR GS 18 LURGAN COLLEGE

22

OMAGH ACADEMY

12 12 12

PORTADOWN COLLEGE BELFAST ROYAL ACADEMY

SEMI FINALS

FRIENDS’ SCHOOL LISBURN

24 PORTADOWN COLLEGE 14 BELFAST ROYAL ACADEMY

31 15

REGENT HOUSE

FINAL

BELFAST ROYAL ACADEMY

26 PORTADOWN COLLEGE

14

DANSKE BANK SCHOOLS' TROPHY QUARTER FINALS

FOYLE COLLEGE

18 CARRICKFERGUS GS 20 STRABANE ACADEMY

5 11

BELFAST HS

BANBRIDGE ACADEMY

19 LARNE GS 18 ANTRIM GS

10

LIMAVADY GS

6

SEMI FINALS

BANBRIDGE ACADEMY

24 FOYLE COLLEGE

12

BELFAST HS

7 LIMAVADY GS

3

FINAL

BANBRIDGE ACADEMY

25 BELFAST HS

18

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IN PICS: SEMI FINAL ACTION

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METHODIST COLLEGE BELFAST 1ST XV SQUAD 2017/18

BEATEN SEMI-FINALISTS

ROYAL BELFAST ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION 1ST XV SQUAD 2017/18

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PAST RESULTS FROM DANSKE BANK ULSTER SCHOOLS’ CUP FINALS

DATE FIXTURE

CAPTAIN

SCORE

2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977 1976 1975 1974 1973 1972 1971 1970 1969 1968 1967 1966 1965 1964 1963 1962 1961 1960 1959 1958 1957 1956 1955 1954 1953 1952 1951 1950 1949 1948 1947

RBAI beat Methodist College RBAI beat Campbell College RBAI beat Wallace High School Methodist College beat Sullivan Upper Methodist College beat RBAI Methodist College beat Ballyclare HS Campbell College beat RBAI Ballymena Academy beat BRA Methodist College beat RBAI Methodist College beat Regent House Methodist College beat Campbell College RBAI beat Methodist College RS Armagh beat Campbell College Campbell College beat Methodist College Methodist College beat RBAI RBAI beat Ballymena Academy Campbell College beat Ballymena Academy RBAI beat Bangor GS Regent House beat Wallace HS Campbell College beat Dalriada Coleraine AI beat Methodist College Methodist College beat Coleraine AI Methodist College beat Campbell College Methodist College beat Wallace HS Bangor GS beat Coleraine AI Methodist College beat Bangor GS Rainey Endowed beat Ballymena Academy Ballymena Academy beat Bangor GS Campbell College beat RBAI Methodist College beat Bangor GS Bangor GS beat Annadale GS Royal School Armagh beat Regent House Methodist College beat Campbell College Methodist College beat RS Dungannon Methodist College beat RBAI RBAI beat Rainey Endowed Bangor GS beat Campbell College Campbell College beat BRA Rainey Endowed beat Methodist College Campbell College beat Coleraine AI Campbell College beat Rainey Endowed BRA drew with Campbell College BRA drew with Rainey Endowed BRA drew with RBAI Campbell College beat RBAI Campbell College drew with RBAI RBAI beat RS Dungannon Annadale GS beat Campbell College RBAI beat Methodist College Campbell College beat Methodist College Campbell College beat Methodist College Campbell College drew with RBAI Methodist College drew with Campbell College Methodist College beat Campbell College RBAI beat Wallace HS RBAI beat Wallace HS RBAI beat Coleraine AI BRA beat RBAI Methodist College drew with Regent House Bangor GS beat RBAI Bangor GS beat Omagh Academy Methodist College beat BRA Ballyclare HS beat RBAI Ballymena Academy beat BRA Belfast Boys’ Model beat Ballymena Academy

M. Lowry C. Field

12 - 8 13 - 3 14 - 10 27 - 12 20 - 5 22 - 6 18 - 11 10 - 7 16 - 0 36 - 0 15 - 0 11 - 5 12 - 10 14 - 5 23 - 10 12 - 10 8 - 6 24 - 6 18 - 7 57 - 3 12 - 6 9 - 9 18 - 9 8 - 3 46 - 13 35 - 21 23 - 7 15 - 0 26 - 12 13 - 4 10 - 9 17 - 4 12 - 3 13 - 9 10 - 7 6 - 4 12 - 3 3 - 0 10 - 7 17 - 9 12 - 9 21 - 3 18 - 7 7 - 6 13 - 8 13 - 9 14 - 3 11 - 3 6 - 3 13 - 0 9 - 6 3 - 0 14 - 0 0 - 0 8 - 8 6 - 6 16 - 6 0 - 0 8 - 0 5 - 0 5 - 3 6 - 3 6 - 5 10 - 10 0 - 0 15 - 0 6 - 0 5 - 0 12 - 3 11 - 3 7 - 3

L. McNamara M. Lagan R. Kane R. Winters J. Creighton G. Dennison N. Annett A. Macklin M. Jones D. Johnston A. Watt J. McCall R. Caldwell N. McComb R. Simms M. J. Rainey A. C. Flalerty D. T. McCombe M. W. D. Haslett P. J. Arnold M. McBrien A. Turtle D. Callaghan A. Martin A. C. Hunter K. A. Martin S. M. Crowther J. S. Gallaher M. McCall M. Webb D. Russell R. J. France M. Rainey G. Currie R. Kennedy M. Hulley K. Hooks T. T. A. Dixon A. P. Kennedy A. J. Brown R. S. Collins A. W. Gleghome J. Montgomery R. D. J. McMichael R. A. Milliken G. Nelson

S.J. Kennedy/ C. P. Gourley

FOR THE RECORD 1983 Grosvenor HS beat RBAI 1982

W. A. Jones W. F. Brown J. W. Paton D. W. Spence

H. H. Rea/ M. R. Heslip R. E. Rea/ M. McSwiggan A. Espley/ A. S. McMurray

F. J. R. Craig J. Birch/S.R. Hogg

RBAI beat Campbell College Campbell College beat RBAI Methodist College beat RBAI RBAI beat Campbell College RBAI beat Methodist College

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