Balbriggan RFC start off their new season this weekend with a home game against Athboy on Sunday 1 Sept in the Jenkinson Cup. Ivan McFadden notes that last season was about rebuilding, and with a combination of players coming through from the U19s and a number of new players to the game the nucleus of a new team was formed with a few old heads to lend experience. Since February last year there have been 16 new recruits to the adult section, the majority had not played the game before but enjoyed playing tip rugby over the Summer and are now willing to give the real thing a try. McFadden noted that the Club also are welcoming back, Sean Malone and Leigh O’Toole from long term injury and Tom Hagan from a year abroad, these returnees will lend a level of experience to the new guys. The objective for the year is to build the experience of the players with a target of returning to the Leinster League next year. Last Thursday the team had its first outing with a training game against Garda. While Garda ran out 16-11 winners it was a good exercise for the home team. Coach O’Sullivan was very happy with the effort put in and in particular his returning players Malone and Hagan put in good performances. Paul Cullen was another to shine with some good carries in the pack while Stu Mullen showed he still has a turn of speed in the backs. All Balbriggan’s points came from assistant coach Billy Phelan. Training is on Tuesday and Thursday nights at 7.30pm.
Last Thursday was also mini registration night and over 100 minis and their parents turned up. They were all able to get their photos with Leinsters Rabo, Amlin and B&I cups which were on hand for the evening. Mini training starts on Thursday night at 7pm. Children, both boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 12 are very welcome.
The youths section kicked off their training last Wednesday with the U14s and 15s. The 13s start this week. The club hope to also field an U17 team from the Community College’s successful U16 team last year. Training is every Wed at 7.30.
Over the summer a number of ladies participated in tag Rugby and the Club is very interested in starting a ladies team. Register your interest at info@babrigganrfc.com.
The Club holds its AGM on Wednesday night at 8pm in the Bracken Court Hotel all welcome.
