New start for Newry Rugby

NEWRY Rugby Club is looking forward to an exciting 2024/25 season with new Director of Rugby Bruce Cornelius (main picture) at the helm.

On Saturday the First XV make the journey to Donaghadee for their opening league game. The encounter is expected to be a tough test for Newry against the side that are favourites for promotion.

Preparations for the season have been progressing well under the watchful eye of Cornelius with attendances at training encouraging as the squad builds in strength and depth.

Commenting on his hopes for the new season Bruce said: "The success for the season will be to develop a competitive team where will bring talented young players through alongside the experienced players. We have a talented group of young players at Newry and I am excited to see how they develop in a highly competitive league."

In preparation for the season the club's hard-working committee under chairman Paul Little have upgraded the infrastructure at Telford Park with the addition of security fencing and the clubhouse receiving a well deserved coat of paint.

Club chairman Paul Little said: "We have a strong committee at the club and we are endeavouring to ensure that the facilities and supports are in place at every level to ensure each team can be competitive and reach its potential and bring rugby in Newry to the next level."

Training for the youth teams has been continuing apace with excellent numbers in attendance. This is attributable to the excellent work undertaken by the club's Club Community Rugby Officer (CCRO) Curtis Mc Evoy in the schools last season. Chris will shortly commence a programme of Rugby in local schools in the coming academic year.

This work is vital to Newry RFC's future in providing a conveyor belt of strong local talent.

While the Newry RFC face many challenges in the 2024/25 season the club also has huge opportunities in the coming months and will be looking to build on the excellent success of the U16 last season and the growth of the minis.

If you would like to get involved in playing rugby across the Seniors, Youth, Women's and Minis sections leave a message on the Club's Facebook Page and a Committee Member will reach out to you to welcome you to Newry RFC