Stingers Blitz, 2026


Stingers Blitz Brings a Fantastic Day of Rugby to Balbriggan RFC

Sunday 10th May was a truly special day at Balbriggan RFC as we proudly hosted the Stingers Blitz, welcoming teams, players, families, volunteers and supporters together for a brilliant celebration of inclusive rugby.

The beautiful sunshine throughout the day only added to the occasion, creating the perfect atmosphere around the club grounds. From the first whistle to the final game, there was an incredible sense of enjoyment, community and positivity that reflected everything the Stingers programme stands for.

As a club, we are immensely proud to have a disability tag rugby team as part of Balbriggan RFC. Inclusion is hugely important to us, and days like the Stingers Blitz highlight exactly why. Rugby is a game for everyone, and seeing players of all abilities enjoying themselves, competing, supporting each other and representing their clubs with such pride was genuinely inspiring.

The standard of rugby on display throughout the day was outstanding. Every team played with tremendous spirit, skill and enthusiasm, and all of the players should be incredibly proud of their performances. The energy and sportsmanship shown across every match made the event a huge success.

A massive thank you must go to everyone who helped make the day possible. In particular, sincere thanks to the entire Stingers coaching team for the incredible work they put into organising and running the Blitz. Their dedication, planning and commitment ensured the entire event ran smoothly and created a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Well done to all the teams that took part: Navan Blue Dragons, Edenderry Sharks, Terenure Tigers, Monaghan Rhinos, Barnhall Buffalos, Carlow Bees, Tullamore Tigers, and New Ross Dunbrody Warriors. A special mention must go to the Monaghan Rhinos on participating in their first blitz.

Special thanks also to Noel and Tommy for preparing the pitches so well. The grounds were in fantastic condition and provided the perfect setting for the day’s rugby.

A special thank you also goes to Alex Usanov and Andrew Sparrow for taking the time to come down and support the event. Their willingness to join in with the games, meet players and be part of the day meant so much to everyone involved. Having senior players show their support for inclusive rugby sends a hugely positive message about the importance of accessibility, community and belonging within our sport. Their presence helped make the day even more memorable for all of the participants.

We are also hugely grateful to Glenveagh for sponsoring the event and supporting inclusive rugby within our club and community.

Finally, thank you to all of the volunteers from across every team in the club who gave their time and energy throughout the day. Events like this simply would not happen without the support of so many people working behind the scenes, and your efforts are greatly appreciated.

The Stingers Blitz was a wonderful showcase of inclusion, teamwork and community spirit, and everyone at Balbriggan RFC should be proud of what was achieved on the day.

We look forward to many more occasions like it in the future.