A little bit about St Mary’s College RFC by D. O’Brien Aug25
A little bit about St Mary’s College RFC
Founded 1900
References made in this historical sketch are all accessible on the club website. These deal in greater detail with particular matches, events or profiles
In September 1900, a number of past pupils of St Mary’s College Rathmines, Dublin who, after their schooldays missed playing rugby and that special camaraderie. They wished to continue playing and wanted to remain associated with their alma mater. After an historic meeting with the college authorities, they agreed to form “Old St Mary’s FC” as it was to be called; however, later it became St Mary’s College RFC. It was to be an open club, open to all, open minded and playing open rugby; a tradition retained, nurtured and cherished to this day. There was a close relationship between the college and the club and the relationship still exists today.
In the early days, the matches were played in the front field at the college and the first trophy, the Leinster Junior Cup, was won in 1905. In 1911, the club earned senior status and secured its own grounds off Beaver Row in Donnybrook (showing the way to Riverview Tennis). There it thrived until the First World War when, along with the college, it closed down and although the college reopened after the war, the club did not get going again until 1932.
During the Donnybrook days, Ernest Farrell had been a star and earned the first ever inter provincial cap for his club in 1911, by now an active priest he supported a group of young men, past pupils of the college, to re-establish the club. One of those pioneering lads, Paddy Branagan, survived happily until 2009. They were lucky to secure a ground at Kimmage Grove, which they rented from a farmer, Mrs Doherty, for over twenty years until the farm of which it was part was sold in 1954 for building, to become what is now College Park Estate.
During the happy tenure there, the club won many junior cups and learned the best side steps in Dublin rugby, through avoiding the sheep and cattle dung (the pitches being also leased for grazing farm animals). Also in that period, the club regained senior status in 1941 and later a young Matt Gilsenan, who played an active role in the club into the 90s, led his side to win the inaugural Moran Cup (J3s) in 1949; he later brought the senior team, of which he was then captain, on the first ever club tour, to Italy, in 1954. He later became a distinguished president of the club, was a club trustee from the age of 25 until the 2000s; he was the club archivist and was greatly admired (See Obituary). Another to make his mark during that period and remain club active until his sad death in 2014, was Paddy Bolger. He was a treasurer of the Leinster Branch, (following St Marys’ GK Boyd), president of the Leinster and treasurer of IRFU. Other outstanding and long serving members from those times, were Bill Fagan, John O’Donoghue, Vincent Mc Govern, Jack Sheeran, Harry McGuinness and Joe Fanagan, all of whom along with Paddy Branagan, Ernest Farrell and Jimmy Ganter, moved mountains to move the club to its own home, by fund raising etc. with eventually success.
In 1955, that move was made, and a wonderful new clubhouse and grounds were opened on College Drive (off Fortfield Road) and so began a golden era in St Mary’s history. It took only a few years to taste success. Then in 1957-58 season under the inspired captaincy of Joe Fanagan (scrumhalf) and with wonderful players like Ned Carmody, Vincent Mc Govern, Sean Cooke, Jack Bagnall, John Lee, the Hussey twins, Dick Whitty, Mick Hoctor, Hugh Kerrigan, Ken Wall, Paddy Dowling and Nicky Corrigan, brought home to College Drive, the Leinster Senior Cup for the first time. The LSC, now the Leinster Senior League Cup, at that time was the most prestigious trophy and the most difficult to win in Irish rugby.
The sixties saw a stream of cups come home to St Marys at junior level and then having been so close on a few occasions, in 1969 the great Sean Lynch ,who afterwards became be our first international and British and Irish Lion, drove his super team to win the LSC again. During the sixties, the club also had many provincially capped players and the club was growing in strength and status all the time. The cup was to be won again in ‘71, ‘74, ‘75,’87, ‘93, ’95, 2005, 2010 and 2013. The IRFU centenary all Ireland cup was won by Marys, led by the incomparable Johnny Moloney in 1975.
The seventies was the glorious age, with many trophies at all levels being won and with wonderful players like Sean Lynch, Dennis Hickie, John Moloney, Tom Grace, Seamus Deering, Tom Feighery, Tony Ward, Terry Kennedy, Ciaran Fitzgerald and Rodney O’Donnell all being capped for Ireland. Of course, Johnny Moloney, Tom Grace and Seamus Deering captained Ireland during that period and later Ciaran Fitzgerald captained Ireland to a triple crown in 82 and 85 and captained the Lions in 1983. Rodney, Johnny and Tom all became Lions. The inaugural Leinster Senior league was won under the inspiring captaincy of club great, JB Sweeney in season 71-72. Success in that league was to come again in 78, 80, 89, and 97; it has been merged with the LSC to become the LSLC. The seventies also saw the club outgrow College Drive and with the foresight of Brian Whelan, Bennie Lynch, Paddy Bolger, Matt Gilsenan, Bill Fagan et al, a new ground was purchased from the Holy Ghost Community and a new beauty was born in Templeville Road. Tony Hickie was the architect and he produced an innovative and imaginative clubhouse, which has been expanded and improved over the years under Tony’s watchful eyes. It opened with a gala game in 1975. That was a memorable day with a strong Marys’ team playing an international XV under Willie John Mc Bride.
In the eighties, the club continued to make strong progress and as well as three senior trophies, cups and leagues were won at all levels right through the decade. We added to our international members with Tony Ward, Paul Dean and Vincent Cunningham (son of John, great Marys’ man, former president and Hon Secretary) being honoured by Ireland and likewise, all three became Lions to their own and the club’s great credit and pride. The game was evolving, with newer training techniques, more emphasis on nutrition, body condition and set plays. Likewise, there was more emphasis on examination of and changes to the laws to help the game become more fluent.
The decade of the nineties was for St Marys, another period of great change and development, as it was for the game, when the fundamental change from amateur to professional rugby took place and its effect is still being felt, especially by clubs including St Marys. Structurally also the club changed, with, firstly a fine terrace being erected on the SE side of the pitch, then one on the clubhouse side and then a complete refurbishment and extension of the clubhouse and hall and the addition of the Centenary Bar. Again, Tony Hickie was the architect, with Frank Kennedy the project manager, both doing an outstanding and caring job with diligence. The planning, fundraising and organisational work was carried out by dedicated members especially John Doddy, Paul Sheeran, John Cunningham and Gus Browne. Of courses the nineties saw the commencement of the All Ireland League in season 1990-91 and the club started in the 1st division and played all the 90s therein. In 1993 the club was beaten in a famous final at Lansdowne Road by Young Munster. During the decade, the quality of play increased rapidly, with Brent Pope, a notable St Marys import coming over from New Zealand in 1991, and others such as Victor Costello, Peter Smyth and Trevor Brennan, joining from outside the club to add to the talent of, such as Steve Jameson, Michael Corcoran and Kevin Devlin while home grown talent such as Vincent Cunningham, Kevin Potts, Conor McGuinness, Garry Lavin, David Wall and later Dennis Hickie, Malcolm O’Kelly, Kevin Nowlan and John Mc Weeney made up a formidable outfit which challenged yearly. Victor, Denis, Conor, Kevin, John, Malcolm and Trevor all became Irish Internationals and Denis and Malcolm later became Lions.
Under the astute coaching of Steven Hennessy and Hugh Maguire, the club reached the Top Four play-offs for two consecutive years, only to be beaten in the semi finals. Then in 1999-2000 with Brent Pope back as coach after a few seasons at Clontarf, with Trevor Brennan, as captain, Brendan Spring as president and John Doddy as Chairman of Rugby, the breakthrough came and the AIL 1st division trophy was secured to delight from all. St Marys were the first non-Munster club to win the trophy.
2000 ushered in the centenary anniversary year of the founding of the club. It was celebrated by the publication of a history of the club to that point by the highly esteemed journalist and broadcaster and St Marys man Fred Cogley. Early references are from his important publication. (Book Here) Former great Marys player, international and B & I Lion, Paul Dean was elected president for that special occasion. Many celebratory functions were enjoyed.
To support and help develop players, the infrastructure has been enhanced over the years, especially over the first decade of the 2000s, with a high performance gym and television grade floodlights added under the guidance of Tony Hickie and Frank Kennedy,( who had a remarkable playing career in the sixties, seventies and eighties with the most medals of all denominations of any player in the club), with strong backroom support from Brian (Spike) Fanning, John (Pyner) Pyne, Tom O’Brien, Liam Byrne and all the very active presidents of the decade, and the executive committees.
In spring 2010, Brian Fanning (then House and Grounds Manager), with the astute help of Liam Byrne (Hon Treasurer) and D O’Brien, managed with typical inventiveness and tenacity, to have the main pitch and training area (Cabbage Patch) restructured and drained to highest efficacy, ensuring for the future, a high quality surface under most conditions. David Ross (Leinster Branch) who arranged re-designation of Sports Council grants, greatly facilitated the procedure.
This time saw further changes both to laws and to structures of rugby in Ireland, with the provinces fully professional, most of our AIL winning team became full time players for the provinces and were no longer available to the club to any extent; and so a rebuilding began. Although the 2nd division was visited for a year (2004-05), the club progressed both on and off the field. Emmet Byrne, Peter McKenna, Keith Gleeson and Mark McHugh (later to be Club Head Coach) were all capped early in the decade, Kieran Lewis in 2005 and in 2007, Shane Jennings who had been a star of St Mary’s College and the club and a great ambassador for our club, was capped at wing forward for Ireland. He only retired in 2015.
Steven Hennessy and Peter Smyth, two of our truly outstanding Marys men, developed a strong, mainly home produced squad, and took the club back to the top division the following season. They continued to build, with many young promising players like Jonathan Sexton (later a star international player) and Mark Sexton, second generation Sweeneys, Robert (club international and captain 2015-16) and brother Richie (captain 2012-13), Conor McInerney (both Leinster A and later Ospreys sadly retired due to injury), Paul Nash (Club Captain 2010-11), Conor Donohue, Kevin Sheahan (captain 2014-15) (Ronan Doherty, Darragh Fanning (captain 2013-14 and son of long time club, Leinster player and B international captain Declan), Phillip Brophy (Club Captain 2008-09 and club international), Barry O’Flanagan and Gavin Dunne, mingling well with our more mature players such as Gareth Logan (Club Captain 2007-08 and President 2025-26)), Hugh Hogan (club International Captain and Club Captain 2009-10) and Conor Mc Phillips. Younger players still, like Under 21 international and Leinster player Jack McGrath (Lions) and U20 International Darren Hudson, Rob Hudson, Conor Hogan, Ray Crotty, Robbie Field, Ian O’Neill, Sean Preston and Joe Burns all were being integrated into the squad.
It was in 2002 that St Marys introduced a women’s team, with Samantha Howe its first captain. Garry Manning was involved in its initiation. This area of sport in Ireland was in its infancy and from a fragile beginning, it soon became a burgeoning and passionate pastime for many young women all over Ireland leading to great success at club, national and international level.
In 2008-09, the senior team, under inspirational captain Phillip Brophy and Coach Peter Smyth, ended the AIL 1st division season level with four other clubs, but due to points differential, controversially missed the play-offs (see reports), but the following season, 2009-10, playing under a new two-year experimental and highly competitive eight team division 1A, St Marys reached second in the league overall, so made the play-offs, won the semi final and were narrowly beaten after extra time in the final (see match reports).
In 2009 our star outhalf Jonathan Sexton was honoured with his first Irish cap, which led to a career of outstanding distinction in the jersey of Ireland and the British and Irish Lions. Also capped that year were Marys members Kevin McLaughlin, Sean Cronin (later exceptional Head Coach) and in 2010 Rhys Ruddock was added to the list.
The junior teams and ladies also progressed well with ten trophies over the decade and playing numbers steady, in spite of economic conditions causing increased emigration.
This period was momentous, with many changes and developments, ups and downs for the senior team, a marvellous AIL Division 1A win, a Division 1B triumph, promotion and demotion twice and the start of brutal pandemic (Covid 19), which upended rugby at all levels and tested the resilience of our club and the game itself.
The start of the decade was testing, as the effects of the world financial ordeal and the Irish Banking collapse, were still in evidence with many young rugby players having to relocate and emigrate. Notwithstanding, our club continued to progress.
The start of season 2010-11, marked the end of the experimental AIL structure and was followed by a first division of two section, A and B, of ten teams each and second and third divisions of 16 teams each; all with relegation and promotion. Sadly, the highly popular and talented club captain Paul Nash was injured during that season and had to retire from rugby, a great loss to the squad and the club.
In 2011-12, Hugh Hogan resumed as captain of the club, having been captain previously in 2009-10, and under the coaching team of Ciaran Potts, Peter Smyth, James Norton, they had a magnificent campaign and won through to the title on the last day of the campaign defeating great rivals Young Munster in a knee trembling match. (For details, see reports archives and club yearbook 2012-13) It was fitting that, President John Gilsenan, son of club legend and leader Matt Gilsenan, received the trophy on behalf of the club, The season saw the introduction of young players, Ryan O’Loughlin, Stevie Toal-Lennon, Christopher Lilly, Marcus O’Driscoll, Christopher Lilly, Gerry Sexton and Tom O’Reilly pushing up and challenging for places and many other support players and junior players making up an impressive player matrix. These players have brought many trophies and honour to the club over the decade [see Records by Maurice (Mossy) Davin].
Mention must be made of our first ever, IRFU president, John Hussey in 2011-12. (See profile of John Hussey for more details) He was Chairman of the IRFU management committee for eight years and previously was President of the Leinster Branch, having been our IRFU/LB representative for over ten years. He served the club, LB and IRFU exceptionally well and helped bring Irish Rugby through changing and challenging times. As Chairman of the Celtic League (later Pro 12 and URC), he had been prescient in planning its development. With his involvement in Leinster Branch and IRFU, John followed such luminaries as Vincent Mc Govern, Paddy Bolger, Joe Fanagan, DP Smyth, Gerry Boyd and Ernest Farrell, all of whom had made superb contributions to Irish rugby and to St Marys. John Doddy, who followed John Hussey as the St Mary’s College RFC representative to the Leinster Branch sadly died in July 2009 and is greatly missed by all at the club, he had the sharpest of brains was a tireless worker and was most popular, admired and respected both at the club and within the wider rugby community. John Doddy had been joint DoR (director of rugby) with D O’Brien during that rebuilding period from 2004 to his death. John was followed as our IRFU/LB representative by D O’Brien, and then Niall Rynne who had been working hard as the junior representative, took over and is keeping up the fine tradition of his predecessors.
In 2012-13, with Ciaran and Peter stepping down, Hugh Hogan stepped up and took over the role as Head Coach, to add to an outstanding playing career, he had previously successfully coached the club Under 20 team. During his first season as head coach, he was fortunate to have Richard Sweeny (son of club legend JB Sweeney) as club captain. Another notable office holder of season 2012-13, was the charismatic president, Michael Fanagan, a member of the St Marys’ Fanagan family, being a nephew of the great Joe Fanagan. The season saw the addition to the trophy cabinet of another LSLC, gained in a memorable final V Lansdowne FC (see report). The senior team were narrowly beaten in the AIC (Bateman cup) final and the J1 team won a double, as did the J2s, the J3s won their league and the ladies first team won the All Ireland Plate.
The Teens
2013-14 with Steven Hennessy as president, Darragh Fanning as captain and Peter Smyth as head coach, it was bound to be an eventful year. Darragh had now a fulltime contract with Leinster and as a starring member of the Leinster team; he was only afforded the opportunity to play for his own club team once, when he was a brilliant man of the match, leading his team to a great away victory over old rivals Garryowen. It must be recorded that Darragh, when free from Leinster, was ever-present at the club supporting and helping all the players at every level. He also, along with his partner, Rachel Coleman, won the highly successful Strictly St Marys, a night of dancing to remember for all, in February 2014 at Croke Park. His team had a difficult time, having lost several players to emigration and the inevitable drop off, after the great 2012 AIL win, however, with the great Peter Smyth coaching and coaxing them along finished mid table. The J1s won the Leinster Metro League Division 1and Metro Plate, the J2 gained the Leinster Metro League Division 3 and Albert O’Connell Cup and the J3s won the Leinster Metro League Division 5. The women’s team again won the All Ireland Plate.
(See: – A backward glance at the season ahead, 2013-14 for more details)
The season 2014-15, brought a new president, Brian Grimson and a new captain Kevin (Shiner) Sheahan. Further depletion of players made coach, Peter Smyth’s job, a difficult one, but with a wholesome and commendable dedication on both their parts, he and Kevin set about building a team and surviving. Sadly, this was not to be, with a series of really unlucky outcomes and inexperience, the senior team ended with a play off for relegation to Division 1B, against great rivals Garryowen. Unfortunately, on the day Garryowen’s streetwise rugby shaded it. Although the supporters were forlorn, it was recognised that the captain had worked heroically all season; his team likewise did all in their power and just fell short. The spirit that had surged in the veins of the club for 115 years still flowed and the confidence to rebuild and return to the top of the club game shone out. That building began straight away. It was a good season for junior rugby. A superb J3 team, with many stars of other years, such as Hugh Hogan, Phillip Brophy and Gareth Logan playing, the Moran Cup was won in some style (see report). The J5, D.P. Smyth Blitz was secured and the lifeblood of the club the U20s won the J.P. Fanagan Premier 2 League and U20 Purcell Cup. Yet again, the women’s team that has been in existence now for 13 years added the Women 1sts – All Ireland Plate to the trophy cabinet. The women’s section had grown in strength over the past decade and become a vital part of our club, in all respects, both administratively and on the field.
Long serving, popular groundsman Frank Doyle, retired in 2015. He had managed the pitches for many years often under the tutelage of John Carvill. Pat Nash, Paul’s father took over for four years and when he retired, Peter (Pokey) O’Kelly, member and former player was installed. He has been keeping up the standards and is a helpful and popular figure.
It was also a great season for young prop Jack Mc Grath who was capped for Ireland and played a prominent role, along with his St Marys’ colleague Jonathan Sexton in Ireland’s Six Nations Trophy success. He is also, along with Jonno Sexton, a vital part of Ireland’s challenge for the RWC.
Socially, the year was highly active and enjoyable, with Strictly St Marys again being a highlight. It was wonderfully well organised by our tireless club administrator, Marie Hammond and masterfully compèred by Niall Rynne. (See report).
(See: – Musings, Mutterings and Sense of the Season 2014-15 for more details)
The season 2015-16 had another true club legend, Declan Fanning (Father of Darragh), as president and Robert (Chops) Sweeney, son of revered JB and brother of Richard who was captain in 2012-13, captain. Peter Smyth recruited wisely and retained most of the senior squad and with his and Robert’s great abilities and determination, the club battled relentlessly to regain our status in Division 1A. Losing Nick Timony Conor Oliver, Chris Lilly and Ray Crotty from Christmas onwards was felt. However, the squad stayed together and had strong leaders with previous skippers Kevin Sheahan, Richard Sweeney and Phillip Brophy available and proven leaders in Ciaran Ruddock, Brian Mc Govern, Steve Bradshaw, Barry O’Flanagan, Mark Sexton, Marcus O’Driscoll and Peter Starrett fully fit. The squad had a lot of growing talent in players such as Cathal Marsh, David O’Connor, Robert Glynn, Ryan O’Loughlin, Conor Toolan, Steve Toal-Lennon, Terry Kennedy, David Fanagan, Sean Kearns, Conor Gilsenan, Tom O’Reilly, Mark Fallon, Rory O’Donovan, Neil Murphy, Darragh Keller, Sean Preston; and with Hugo Keane, several other highly talented U20 players and more. The season ended with success, topping the table and gaining and promotion back to AIL Division 1A. The U20s too had success winning JP Fanagan Premier 2 and the Purcell Cup, showing the potential of the future.
Terry Kennedy Jr was honoured to become an international 7-a-side player.
By then retired as a player of excellence and having become an established and successful coach, Alan Shirley was appointed DoR, a role in which he excelled and which he expertly and effectively managed, while overcoming all difficulties, for the next 12 years, seeing rugby expand and reach new heights.
That season also saw a change in club administrative structures. With the relentless growth of the game, the running of a rugby club is a challenging task and to aid with that task, the club appointed a club chairman. This important role was taken by John Gilsenan, the former club president. He was president in 2011-12 when the club won the AIL Division 1A trophy, he was former club treasurer and son of club doyen Matt Gilsenan. St Mary’s College RFC was fortunate to have someone of his ability and so faced the future with confidence.
(See: – A Foot Rush towards the season ahead 2015-16 for more detail) (Also see records by Maurice Davin on trophies, league and cup placings, International Caps, other relevant data and archives)
After the success of 2015-16, confidence was high and with popular former stalwart player and junior rugby protagonist and DoR, Kevin Conboy as President and Brian McGovern, former schools’ representative player as Club Captain, the senior team performed well in 1A and ended the season in 7th place, and the U20s retained the Purcell cup.
(See: – Taking off from 2015-16 and landing in 2016-17 for more details)
In 2017-18 with David Fanagan as Club President and Ciaran Ruddock Club Captain the senior team held 9th position and unfortunately were relegated in the play-offs. Again the U20s retained the Purcell Cup. The J4s and J5s both won their respective leagues.
(See: – 2017-18 Season’s Reasons to believe for more details)
We faced a different challenge in 2018-19 following relegation to AIL 1B. The club once again called on Steven Hennessy to come to the rescue, as Club Senior Coach. For St Mary’s College RFC, this was a season of change. There was a whole set of new challenges and new geography. The club looked at it as a season of change where the club was on a crusade of rejuvenation of all aspects and structures. Steve had with him as Club Captain, top centre Marcus (Modser) O’Driscoll, later to be a long standing fitness and Strength and Conditioning Coach. Jack Ebbs, (son of one of our first and most iconic women members, the late Eileen Ebbs), and former player and manager of several underage and junior teams, was Club President. The senior team finished in AIL 1B, 6th place with a very creditable with 44 points. Jordan Larmour added to our international players. St Marys secured The DP Smyth Blitz once again.
(See: – The Changing Season 2018-19 for more details).
The Great Plague (Covid19)
If 2018-19 was a season of change, the season 2019-20 saw a profound global change, one that would change many aspects of life for all time. For in autumn of 2019 a Corona virus was to mutate from one infecting bats to a strain that infected humans, causing worldwide disease, death and near panic, before vaccines were developed and designed to prevent or ameliorate its effects. Emergency measures and lockdowns were required to get some control on it, eventually. It meant that during the early 2020s sport was abandoned or strictly curbed and often restricted to spectator-free events, with many constraints. It did see a surge in TV sport, including streaming of local sports events.
As far as St Mary’s College RFC was concerned, by the time the pandemic that followed had subsided, the effects were considerable, as they were with most other clubs and associations which promote and promulgate social closeness. Unfortunately, the first precaution had to be to limit or prohibit all such practices. However, human desire for interaction is such that many innovations were devised to overcome the problems and ways were found to help members and persons who were in need or deprived. Internet conferences and chat groups thrived and slowly, as regulations eased, people graduated towards their clubs and so it was with our club. It can be considered that this need to support and reassure persons brought a warmer and even closer camaraderie between all the membership and boosted morale and ambition. This indeed may well have been a factor in the resurgence of spirit and skill throughout the club. Of course great hardship, damage and loss occurred too everywhere, and it could be said that the swing to the hard right and the upsurge in conspiracy theories were directly linked to Covid19.
That season, 2019-20, Michael O’Flaherty bravely carried the flag as President, and Tom (Tommer) O’Reilly as Club Captain. They and the executive committee and Rugby Committee wisely brought the club safely through the season in which, all club rugby, was aborted at the end of February after 14 of an 18 match AIL1B, with St Mary’s College RFC in 8th place. In many ways the club showed its maturity and concern for its membership over that period, ensuring what was best for all, was done. All developments and activities had to be abandoned during that time.
(See: – The abridged AIL IB League 2019-20 for more details of the AIL season itself)
Unfortunately the club rugby season of 2020-21, was abandoned after a few initial games, which was upsetting for all members, but most for Club President Vincent Cunningham, former British and Irish Lions player and son of former club President John Cunningham. Equally so it was a great disappointment to outstanding player and captain, Richard Halpin. That season, Caelan Doris was deservedly rewarded, by becoming an Ireland rugby international. The International programme was played behind closed doors with no supporters admitted.
Renaissance, 2021-22, at St Mary’s College RFC
As the last ice-age relented, so water began to drip, then rivulets trickled to turn to streams, torrents, rivers, and lakes, The long suppressed flora and fauna crept from refuges and propagated and spread and blossomed, as they hugged the weak sun. So, as the icy grip of Covid eased, slowly the normalcy of human existence crept back. This included sport; our love club rugby, and our very own niche within, St Mary’s College RFC. During that near suspended animation, most administrative and maintenance work had to be directed remotely.
Within the club itself, almost alone the dedicated Marie Hammond, the club administrator, had sat, as was her wont, expertly and assiduously ensuring that all necessary tasks were carried out, and communications continued. Outside, and labouring with enthusiasm on the pitches and surrounds was groundsman and very likeable member, Peter (Pokey) O’Kelly. Their practical endeavours, in no small way, ensured that we could look forward to the seasons ahead.
Indeed, our gregarious president, Patrick Crawford, and his committee enjoyed a season of rugby, uninterrupted. It is interesting to note that Patrick was the first president of the club to have joined as a mini rugby player’s parent.
All were then ready, realistically to hope for a successful and bountiful season at every level, due to the hard work done behind scenes, by all the coaches, managers, players and Rugby Council (RC) under the expert chairmanship of Director of Rugby (DoR) of Alan Shirley.
The head coach (a former club captain and president), Steven Hennessy, had done remarkable work in ensuring a talented and fit squad was available as AIL 1B, arrived. Being at the heart of rugby development and success at St Marys for nigh on 30 years then, he was an expert on recruitment and retention needs… He was skilfully supported and assisted by coach, Jamie Cornett and DoR, Alan Shirley. That season, talented, Conor (son of B & I Lion Paul) Dean returned from Connacht, as player coach. The club had been also privileged in gaining the coaching expertise of respected Leinster (and former Ireland) hooker, Sean Cronin.
Likewise, we were fortunate that experienced senior manager, Paudge McGill, agreed to remain at the helm for this season, in spite of being honoured to be appointed the club’s junior vice president. He had also retained his trusted and very capable lieutenant, Rhuairi Moran, and former senior player and AIL winner, Colm McMahon, as assistant managers.
The senior squad had as coaches to the J1 player cohort, two accomplished coaches and former player, Paul Brennan, and Gareth (Logie) Logan (still playing then). They were supported by the continued participation as manager, of Paul Conlon along with Conor O’Neill. It was important to have four such qualified persons there, as these were always among the most demanding and challenging roles in club rugby. They need, not only quality rugby knowledge and coaching skills, but high levels of patience, man management and diplomatic skills. Yet they can be some of the most fulfilling ones.
A doyen of diplomacy and charm, Ian Bloomer, was back again, ready and waiting to meet and greet the referees, act as fourth official and act as Guardian of the Balls.
The club captain was again Richard Halpin. Richie was originally elected by his peers, as club captain for the season 2020-21, but as only three senior games were played, his squad wished for him to remain as their skipper for this season; that was a just and wise decision. Richard is a very fine player (hooker), an instinctive and astute leader and a personable, dedicated club man. His history (see Richard Halpin – A Snapshot, on club website) showed a man who thrived on success, and expected it. He was a former Oxford Blue.
The squad was full of joyful youth, exhilarating talent and potential; all chomping at the bit to get back to action. It is a credit to Steven and his colleagues developed over a number of years’ hard work, and was then reaching its acme. It may have lacked in avoirdupois, especially in the 2ndrow, but compensated with pace, skill and unflinching commitment. Being realistic, it is a tough league with a wide geographic spread and relentless attrition, leading to injuries. Keeping a fit squad, particularly in pivotal positions, is always vital to success. To win home games, pick up bonus points of all types and retain squad integrity, are all factors determining success or failure. It has become clear now that to win a league, you also need dedicated backup and support and a decent dollop of luck. The club had the experience of winning two senior AIL titles to draw on, with the confidence it brought in the surge to make progress. Coaches worked on delivering higher intensity, lightening offloads and wide support play in attack and defence, while keeping our ethos of integrity, indelible courage, melded with gracious generosity in victory and defeat. This is more important than a “fieldful” of cups and trophies. As we emerged from the Covid chill, valuable markers for our future social and rugby success were laid down.
The player list of the senior squad was impressive and it is heartening to note the many players who are members of families with close St Marys links, or parents who are former players and well known and esteemed family names are freely sprinkled through the squad. Names such as Dean, Fanagan, Fogarty, Jameson, Kennedy, McCarthy, McEniff, and McEvoy and so on were there in strength, so enhancing our future chances.
There was a nice blend of forwards and backs and although a young squad there were a few more mature talented players and leaders such as David Aspil, Peter Starrett, Jack Dilger, Paddy O’Driscoll, Ryan O’Loughlin, Tommer O’Reilly (former captain). As leaders there were a number of others too, who had already shown a particular propensity in this regard. Players like Nick McCarthy, David Fanagan, Ronan Watters, Mick McCormack, and Hugo Conway.
Under 20s
Under 20 rugby holds an important place in young rugby players’ lives. A number of these players will share roles within the senior squad and the U20 specific squad, which caters for their development, giving space to integration, education, socialisation and rugby evolution. Players are prepared for senior club rugby and beyond; or for longer term social rugby. In some clubs the U20 group becomes an esoteric clique, spoiling young men. There was here too a great hunger to get back to rugby and normal life.
That season we were fortunate to have a competitive squad, which had already won the Purcell Cup with style. We were also privileged to get a good share of fine young players from St Mary’s, Templeogue, The High School, St Gerard’s, Rockwell and Kilkenny Colleges. Without these we might not survive.
Brian McGovern, former Club Captain, a strong leader, took the reins as Head Coach U20s.
He had with him coaching, Eddie Devitt and Richard Andreucetti and are well served by the ubiquitous Vincent Murray as manager and as required with a young U20 squad, general advisor.
Women’s Rugby
Since 2022-03 season we had had women’s rugby at St Marys and its introduction has been successful and happy, with AILs won and international players developed, including the outstanding, Paula Fitzpatrick, who played in several different positions and captained Ireland. Since COVID, there had been of course a hiatus, and now re-population was underway. Sarah Brennan’s dedication and loyalty to St Marys was in evidence since women’s rugby commenced, she was at the core of the regeneration efforts in both women’s and girls’ youths’ rugby.
Junior Rugby.
Junior rugby sprung back to life too. It is the font and foundation of the club structure. It is junior rugby in particular that prompts that close interaction and integration. Over many years, people like former club president, DoR and successful senior team manager, Kevin Conboy, who had been a vital figure on RC, had been junior rugby champions. Kevin was an unafraid voice for junior rugby within the club and further afield. Since, slightly more recent times, Mossy Davin has also been dedicated to its support in addition to contributing greatly to the club in many other ways. We must not forget others who also contributed especially to junior rugby, like Eddie Hynes, for many years, as did Derek (Del Boy) McCabe, Tom Holmes (deceased) and early on, the late Bill Fagan and John Reddy. They, and many others, deserve our gratitude and appreciation.
The Director of Junior Rugby (DoJR), was Maurice (Mossy) Davin (later to be Hon Treasurer and archivist), continuing in the role he had filled with aplomb for some time; along with that, he also became honorary fixture secretary (taking over from the universally popular Michael Fanagan)
IRFU Registrations for all playing members were again organised and verified by former formidable and talented player, DoR, and committee member, David Donohoe. We were fortunate to have his proven and exact expertise.
Youth Rugby:
Robbie O’Neill was Director in what could be considered a role that holds the future of our rugby fortunes in hands. The rugby plan presented to the committee by DoR, Alan Shirley three years earlier, identified youth rugby to be key to success, as the availability of young players leaving rugby playing schools is at a low and although we are fortunate to have feeder schools we cannot depend entirely upon them.
Youths’ Rugby covers male and female youths.
The endogenous growth area of club rugby will always be youth rugby. It has the potential to energise the club system. St Mary’s College RFC has particularly propitious credentials and geographical advantages. As Youths registration Officer Deirdre Stapleton, was working tirelessly for the club.
The Child Welfare Officer was the most efficient, approachable and personable, Pearl Healy; a perfect fit for the role.
Our blossoming Mini Rugby system got back into harness with very youthful exuberance, again a diamond in future development of rugby in St Mary’s College RFC.:
St Marys U20s were Purcell Cup Winners and the J4s won the Metro League Division 9. Caelan Doris was of course by now added to our list of Irish Internationals and Jonathan (Jonno) Sexton was honoured by captaincy of his country. Additionally, 15-a-side international players, Terry Kennedy Jr was a star 7-a-side International.
(See The Renaissance Season, 2021-22 for full details)
In season 2022-23 we were now well and truly back to business and in addition to the playing side, planning and administration activated with plans for refurbishment of the pitches, car park resurfacing , perimeter trees pollarding, work to increase energy sustainability with PV panels, mini wind turbines and other energy production systems and development of Padel Courts, Sauna Baths and a Coffee Dock. Our representatives in Leinster and IRFU Eoin Quinn and IRFU Niall Rynne, respectively, were flying our flag con Brio, with Niall becoming chair of the IRFU Management Committee.
On the field, 2022-23 started one of the most impressive and exciting periods in our long history leading up to our 125th anniversary as a Rugby Club. Sean Cronin who had been a marvellous international and Leinster hooker, with winger pace, was proving himself to be a popular assiduous and highly astute coach at St Marys. The previous season with Steve Hennessy he had proved to be inspirational. Now he took the reins as head coach. A most impressive rugby man, he threw himself into the task with absolute commitment in spite of having to commute from Limerick and St Marys are grateful and appreciative of him.
Ronan Watters started his first of three seasons as Club Captain and he proved to be a remarkably impressive leader and player. With a phenomenal upward flow of success over the three seasons, he was a constant throughout. (Reports of all the AIL matches over this period, and before, are available on the club website). He dedicated himself unstintingly to his fellow players, members and the club’s wellbeing. He was a stunning success in all respects. Outside the club he was an outstanding ambassador, with sagacity beyond his years. He was perfectly matched to the three remarkable presidents of his tenure, Gareth Roche (2022-23), Bobby O’Connor (2023-24) and Paudge McGill (2024-25). It has to be very well noted that, Mark McHugh, former star outhalf on the first St Marys AIL Division 1 victory in 1999-2000, spent a year as backs coach with Sean Cronin then became Head Coach when Sean was appointed to Munster as Academy Coach a role suited to his abilities and geographical locus.
Mark proved to be a special treasure, astute talented and understated; a strong, assured leader of immense quality and dedication. His ability to accommodate all shades of character and opinion made him invaluable in a squad (including J1s) context. He had a fine support team around him with talented coaches like, Jamie Cornett, Marcus O’Driscoll, Robert Sweeney, Greg Jones and Eanna Clynes. His Management team too were admirably efficient, led by Paul Pender and supported by Conor O’Neill, Paul Conlon, Harry Ebbs, Ian Bloomer, Darren Walker and Garry Manning.
In 2023-23 St Marys finished 6th in AIL 1B, then in 2023-24 Ronan led his men to victory in AIL1B with an astounding 85 points. Promotion to 1A was achieved and the club was really on the way up with, the J1s winning Metro league Premier 2 and gaining promotion to Metro League Premier 1.
The J3s won Metro League 7 and were promoted to Metro League J6. The J4s won the O’Connor Cup.
Even more impressively, in 2024-25 Ronan’s team ended up 2nd in 1A. In the play-offs St Mary’s College RFC were beaten in the semi-final by eventual league winners, Clontarf. Mark McHugh received the honour of being AIL Coach of the year 2024-25 and St Marys Centre Dan Goggin was proclaimed, AIL1A player of the Year. Club Player of the year was brilliant back three player, Mark Fogarty.
The J1s and J3s were runners up in their respective leagues.
A superb honour, Caelan Doris was appointed full time captain of the Ireland international team. He was later injured and missed the opportunity of being selected for the B &I Lions tour to Australia and very likely captaincy.
Season 2024-25, also saw the late Terry Coveney (1946 V Scotland) have his full international status recognised (posthumously), to make him our first member, who was capped for Ireland, while playing for the club.
This period has seen success at all playing levels and exceptional social camaraderie throughout the club. There has been too, sadness with the loss of some greatly admired members such as iconic Patsy Fogarty, father of star player, Mark Fogarty, Alberto Andreucetti, Bela Kos and Brian McLaughlin, to add to those who have died since start of the 2000s when there were sadly, some notable losses of leading members, including John O’Donoghue, John Kinahan, Brian Whelan, Tom Holmes, Alex Mullin, James Maguire, Paddy Branagan, Nicky Corrigan, Paddy Jennings, Michael Banks, Noel Cooke, Jack Cullen, Paddy Fearon, Chris Maguire, Paddy Bolger, Bill Fagan, Ned Carmody, Sean Cooke, Joe Fanagan, Matt Gilsenan, John Cunningham, John Carvill, Steve Tracey (Snr), Paul Sheeran and Arthur Costello.
Additionally, two highly regarded staff members, Marie Hammond and Tony McGuinness retired. They hold special places in the hearts of Marys’ members everywhere. It is important for the ethos and integrity of the club to ever have reverence and appreciation for the members who have given unstintingly and wisely.
With that vibrancy and renewed optimism, the milestone season 2025-26; the 125th anniversary of St Mary’s College RFC was crammed full of greatness and events. It saw a young president, Gareth Logan lead his club into a new era. Gareth had been a leading, Marys player since his teenage years. On his way up, he captained the J1s and later was Club Captain and stalwart member of the celebrated 2011-12 AIL winning team, he was later a coach at all levels. He was proven leader in all aspects of his life and put his skills and drive to good use, drawing around him a team of his renowned peer group, with additions of elders and neophytes and committed family, to produce a highly effective, eclectic engine.
Conor Dean, son of Paul Dean, took over as Club Captain from the redoubtable Ronan Watters, Conor had been the outstanding AIL outhalf and was the vital playmaker for the St Marys squad. A former Blackrock College, Ireland underage International, and Connacht contracted player, Conor was also a proven leader, brilliant player and most popular of men. He had around him too, other proven players and leaders.
DoR Alan Shirley, vitally ensured that Mark McHugh with his valued colleagues remained as the Head Coach and his Manager Paul Pender and his group likewise remained intact.
Brendan Spring stepped down as Chairman. He had been admirable in a highly successful tenure where he faced many difficult challenges and overcame all with firm determination and tact. He had been of course a prominent player and administrator, including as president during the season of the first AIL success 1999-2000, and having previously been DoR. He remained a trustee. Paul Conlon became Chairman. He had been a long-term committed member with experience in club administration and rugby management. He had former high energy, hard-working member and president, Gareth Roche. Within the new eclectic committee, Lorcan Byrne took over as Honorary Secretary and the ubiquitous and indefatigable Maurice Davin remained as Honorary Treasurer.
In the 125th year of existence, St Marys proudly boasted 12 British and Irish Lions (including one captain), each one of whom has played and represented St Mary’s College RFC, and it has 36 full internationals, including 7 captains, a B international (captain), one 7-a-side international and Olympian. There are 13 men who represented the Barbarians and one woman. It has 7 club internationals, 132 inter provincial players (114 men and 18 women) stretching back to 1911, several A interprovincials, 38 Underage internationals; also a number of Colleges international players (See Club Records). St Mary’s College RFC has won two 1/1A AILs, 2 1B AILs, the centenary Club Championship of Ireland (1975), 11 LSCs, 4 LSLs, JB Roche Cup (1972). St Marys Women have won 6 trophies. The club has accrued 148 LB/IRFU junior men’s trophies and 12 Lorcan Sherlock, Rugby Clubs’ Golf Trophies.
The exciting Padel Project got underway along with many other structural and organisational developments. So, the club is healthy and well, with a full range of sides including the successful women’s section, now boasting six full Irish Internationals, also youth sections and booming minis. Importantly the club is crammed full of enjoyable social activity with good community interaction. It has outstanding talent on and off the field.
As it has done since 1900, St Mary’s College RFC welcomes all levels of players and non-playing persons to become members and enjoy the especially egalitarian atmosphere. It looks forward with great optimism and avidity to the years ahead.
D O’Brien. 2025.