The 1.25 Century Season 2025-26 by D. O’Brien
The 1.25 Century Season
2025-26
St Mary’s College RFC
Templeville Road.
Introduction
It is not possible, a live125 year old human being, well not yet anyway. St Mary’s College RFC is 125 years old and is still growing, improving, handsome, maturing and looking forward to an unending path of achievement and inclusion. It is a perfect time to realise our being, appreciate our progression, experience the kinetic and optimise our future
It is a dark and sombre world just now and the widespread unbearable suffering is a dreadful stain on society. We must all be aware and seek to help, but too, we must have hope. Templeville Road is a special haven where members can find the comfort of shared worth. It is now more than ever, there should be joy in our rugby and generosity in our values.
Members look back in awe at the history that makes their club, a history inextricably linked to those who made it. When that era of club establishment is considered, 1900, the IRFU was only 21 years old, and the clubs that populated that rugby world, were well ensconced and esoteric. It was a daunting undertaking for a small group of 20 year olds in a structured, patriarchal society, to impress and convince St Mary’s College and the rugby hierarchy to accept them into that milieu.
However, convince they did, and although many trials, difficulties and even setbacks were encountered, including moving home four times, over that past 125 years they steadily built and improved a most impressive and respected rugby football club, St Mary’s College RFC. Everyone in St Marys should look back and revere those pioneers of the early 20th century and since, who fought those battles and achieved great successes on and off the rugby field. You can read in more detail the story of that journey on the club website:-A little bit about St Marys.
The club has never been in a better position to continue that remarkable story. Having finished second in AIL Division 1A last season and previously having come slicing through AIL 1B and straight up to that lofty perch in a swashbuckling, sizzling and exciting steeplechase, the club prepares for more. It must be remembered that the club is not just the admirable senior team. The vital spring of energy, enthusiasm and camaraderie comes from teams below to drive forward all aspects of rugby. It also must be noted that the infrastructure and resources that are pivotal to existence are strong and now primed to support the progress. Since Covid 19, these resources have been developed and future security being, will be strengthened with the improvements. A most promising project, Padel Courts, is in the incubator and soon will be supporting our future prosperity. Other projects and plans too, add to the optimistic sparkle.
The reason for this optimism lies again in the cohorts of personnel at each level, and each aspect of expected execution.
President of the club is Gareth (Logie) Logan, who, with his committee, has shrewdly kept in place the key actors who recently brought the club to the present juncture.
Gareth is a key man; a big man with a big reputation on and off the field. He is a successful business man and entrepreneur, a devoted family man and an outstanding Marys’ man. In fact a feature of his time as presidency is the impressive involvement of his entire family. His wife Bronagh has been doing invaluable work for the club for several seasons and she is now responsible for Comms. She has Mossy Davin, Harry Ebbs and Vinnie Murray as colleagues. She is highly skilled in PR and in modern technology. She is most personable, helpful and kind; and she is dedicated to St Marys. Their children, Tom (13) is in first year St Mary’s College and has been in minis. Alannah (11) is in 6th class Loreto Beaufort High School. Hugo (9) is in 4th class Mary’s College, Jr School and is in minis, and Lexie (6), is in Senior Infants in Loreto High School, Beaufort:- a true blue team.
Gareth joined St Mary’s College RFC as a young man in 1998 and has been at the heart of the club ever since, as a player up to recently, a successful coach at several levels, committee man, and has been highly active as junior vice president and vice president. Now it is Logan’s Run.
On joining, it was clear that Logie was just right for Marys and that he had a big future there. His first two years on the U20s he was impressive and so from U20s he went straight to the J1s and was selected as captain, leading his team to the coveted J1 league in 2000. He was very soon a vital fixture on the Senior XV. He returned to the J1s in 2011 to win three J1 medals, J1League, the Metro Cup and the Leinster Senior 2nd’s League Cup , before being in the heart of the outstanding senior team that won the AIL Division 1 in 2012. Having then retired he made a comeback to win a J3 medal in 2015 and played senior rugby again in 2018, 20 years after commencing his St Marys’ rugby career. He has successfully coached the women’s team for two years and with Philip Lynch, also the U20s and later the J1s in the 2020s. What a creditable rugby career. He was JVP in the season 2023-24, VP 2024-25 and now is the Club President.
Logie has a real appreciation of those who help and shows genuine gratitude to those who deliver. He has that indescribable and almost mystical characteristic, charisma; and so has drawn members of all ages, abilities and persuasions around him in an uplifting amalgam, to drive the club forward in a surge of happy and successful endeavour.
Captain of the club, 2025-26, is Conor (Deano) Dean
It is a beautiful coincidence that for this 125th year of the club’s history that Conor Dean is the Club Captain, for his famed and revered father Paul, was Club President for the centenary year 2000.
Conor is generally acknowledged to be, by a distance, the most accomplished and effective outhalf in AIL. He is the outstanding 10. It is not too much of a surprise, as his father Paul was a celebrated Irish international outhalf and British and Irish Lion. Conor is also a remarkably fine young man in all respects. He is universally popular. He is great fun with a superb sense of humour and great zest for life and living; he is affable and gregarious. He is a complete gentleman. However, He loves nothing more than a bit of youthful adventure. His thoughtful kindness is a feature of his life.
Although in school in Blackrock College, being the son of Paul and Lorraine (another exceptional Marys’ woman) he, and his sister Holly, were well au fait with the activities of St Mary’s College RFC from a young age, spending time up there during his father’s time in committee after his special presidency. Needless to say, Paul and Lorraine are still to be found in the club at many functions and all the Conor’s matches. Conor has much in common with his renowned rugby dad. He has the most appreciative and searching pass and a break that is piercing. Conor’s Deano Dink is unique and deadly. Another shared skill he has with his dad, is his golf. Conor is a virtuoso golfer, playing off +2 he is an unbeatable amateur and he has the course record 66, in his club Blainroe, since May 2022. If you were to guess who had held the previous record as being his dad Paul, you would be right; a remarkable fact. Anyone fancy their chances? Maybe a father and son competition!!
At school at Blackrock College, Conor was an excellent student in all respects, with a fine academic and social record. He was a natural at rugby with all the skills, great acceleration and pace. He started at outhalf on the JCT, when only U14, in 2012, and the following year he was the outhalf on the JCT Cup winning team. The following year, 2014 he was outhalf on the winning SCT team, although still only in fourth year. Nick Timoney, David O’Connor, Caelan Doris, Hugo Keenan and Conor Oliver were all part of that team; and St Marys was very lucky that all but Hugo, later played major roles at the club. They are all still close pals.
2015 & 2016 Conor started 10 in the SCT but unfortunately his team lost in the second round both years. Conor played for Leinster U18 and Irish U18’s for two years while at school.
Having left Blackrock in 2016 he joined Marys.
He played for Leinster and Ireland for two years out of school (2016/17 & 2017/18) in the underage competitions. He played the U20 in JWC in Georgia and again in France the following season in underage 6 Nations and the JWC in France
Having been in the Leinster Sub Academy for two years he went to the Connacht Academy 2018/19 – got his first cap in the last week of URC against Munster (started 10 in Thomond). He got a development contract in Connacht in 2020/21 and played against Munster in the Aviva in the interprovincials during Covid
Missing Dublin and wishing to develop his career, he returned home and played with his club where he has been since. He was a star when the club won AIL 1B, 2023-24 and was a major factor in the second place finish in AIL 1A last season. He has a very close relationship with all the players including the captain for past tumultuous three seasons Ronan Watters, who will be an important support to Skipper Deano. He has enormous goodwill and support from the entire membership, including the Parents Brigade, and of course Lorraine and Deano Snr.
He is very positive about the season ahead and so should we be.
Events for 2025-26
Several events have been organised, by Rebecca Edgeworth and her group, for the season ahead and more will be added as the season progress. Here are some, besides matches, below. Please support as many as you possible, in a relevant manner. Rebecca has been highly active, progressive and innovative since becoming involved, she is most approachable and helpful if anyone has enquires or if you wish to support some of the events in whatever way you wish. Many of the on-going events such as the social work around matches, the gates, agendas, area designations and other tasks are often organised by John Bainbridge, Gary Croke, Deirdre and John Stapleton and others.
Sunday 14th September, Mini Rugby Kick off with attractions such as Bouncy Castles
November 29th Christmas tree lights up and St Mary’s College Choir sing carols.
December 5th Alickadoo trip to Ballynahinch and 6th Match V Ballynahinch.
December 7th Mini Rugby Christmas Party Day
December 13th Club Christmas Party with live music (after AIL, home V Lansdowne)
December 19th Club Christmas Carols
1st February 2026 – Annual Dinner – Michael Fanagan 087 811 4084
April/May 2025 – Mini Rugby End of Season Party Day
April/May 2026 – Annual Captain’s Dinner
9th May 2026 – Club 125 Ball
Senior Rugby
This is the shop window of a rugby club. Clubs have found over many years this is the pinnacle of its rugby prowess and attraction. However, if it ever strays from its base with even the slightest arrogance, it soon tumbles down from that pinnacle as does the club. St Marys is fortunate that its senior squad is firmly planted in reality and has reached where it is by ambition, sweat-degrees, and driven by players and mentors of realistic views and open generous hearts. They know that without the core teams and the blocks beneath, sustained by supporters and volunteers, progress would stall. We have to all be aware that the club game is an all island centrifugal force, keeping us together. One club is not an island and without the others it cannot exist as an active rugby playing club, therefore respect and affection for every club at every level is vital. We may have keen rivalry and even dislike for some clubs while on the turf, but off-field we must hold that long established link of warm friendship. All who have ever been involved in club rugby will understand how locked-in friendships are made between members of both their own and rival clubs. We are an interdependent community and long may it so be.
The club has been fortunate in having a chair of rugby and director of rugby (DoR) Alan Shirley, a former player of wide talent and determination, who is balanced and cerebral. He has given generously to the task for ten years now, and still carries a palpable appetite for the role. He has surrounded himself with colleagues and advisors within the Rugby Council (RC) and without, leading to a balanced and ambitious approach that has paid dividends and continues to do. Each member of RC has, in addition to the collective, a specific role to ensure all levels of rugby is in harmony and contact. St Mary’s College RFC is extremely fortunate to have as a Director of Rugby Strategy and Planning, Peter Smyth (also a trustee) who has the most profound understanding and knowledge of rugby and its players. Having won every possible schools’ trophy at Blackrock College, including interprovincial and international honours as a hooker, he was also a senior interprovincial and professional player and a St Marys’ AIL medal winner in 1999-2000. He is also a motivational and highly successful coach at club, provincial and international levels.
Each member of RC has been selected for their rugby knowledge, experience, commitment and a specific attributes relevant to their designated responsibility. Members are: – Kevin Conboy, David Lyons, Paudge McGill, Graeme McInerney, Eoin Quinn, Stephen Shirley and Vincent Murray. They make all rugby tick in synchronous efficiency.
Specific to Senior Rugby, which includes J1s, there is the senior coaching group under Head Coach Mark McHugh. He too has had an outstanding playing career, an outhalf at school, club, provincial and international levels. He was likewise a star medal winner at St Marys, in that famous first AIL victory 1999-2000. Since, he has been a highly respected and successful coach at Lansdowne FC and returned to his own club St Marys to coach, first with the excellent Sean Cronin, and then as head coach. He has an all-inclusive style which is stimulating and effective for both his colleagues and his player squad. His success is manifest. He will be full out to maintain the standards in this special season. He is much appreciated within the club, being most affable and approachable.
For several seasons now the club has been fortunate to have had Jamie Cornett who is a most impressive coach, a totally committed Marys’ man, and like the great Steven Hennessy, a valuable link to schools’ rugby. Jamie is to the players an avuncular figure whom they respect and cherish. He is reliable, dedicated and talented.
Also, reliable and cherished is former club captain, Marcus (Modser) O’Driscoll, who is a shrewd and now experienced backs coach and an expert strength and conditioning coach. He is generous with his time and takes many playing and non-playing members of all hues and ages under his tutelage, to great effect.
Another former club captain and experienced, current player, Tom (Tommer) O’Reilly, has been appointed scrum coach. He will enjoy the challenge. He is highly respected by his fellow players and coaches/management.
A relatively recent recruit to St Marys and one who has made an outstanding contribution in many ways is player/coach, Greg Jones. He is not only a highly capable leader and player, but is a most effective coach and tactician. His organisation of the lineout and the ensuing plays, whether mauls, rucks or out-plays is remarkable. He is appreciated by his fellow coaches and players.
Senior Rugby Management has Paul Pender, who is experienced in rugby affairs, man-management, logistics and organisation. He came through the ranks of managing mini and youths’ rugby along with his close friend Robbie O’Neill and on the way, his wife Caithriona and his son and brothers, have become invaluable club members and volunteers. His generous and open manner helps greatly in running squad activities effectively and efficiently. He is excited about this season and he and his colleagues will ensure the requirements and agenda are met and carried out with alacrity. He has with him two assistant managers. Conor O’Neill is a caring man whose astute observations and wide experience are valuable assets. He is a player favourite, with his patient and understanding approach. His son Cillian is a promising player here at St Marys too. Harry Ebbs, the neophyte of the group has an agreeable and enthusiastic nature. He understands rugby well and his family association with the club gives him added cachet. He is a willing and diligent worker who has fitted into his role as assistant manager perfectly, and his willing work ethic is appreciated by colleagues and players; he is also; he is also a member of the “Comms” group. The three have a totally complementary working system and are invaluable to Mark and his coaches.
The J1s, a crucial area of club rugby and one that need special attention, has two highly prized managers, Darren Walker who has worked with this group for several years now, and experienced Garry Manning; both top Marys men.
The medical team which is vital to our success and the players’ health and welfare is led again this year by Professor Niall McEniff, former player and organiser. He has given outstanding voluntary service to the club and meticulous care to players requiring it. The club is greatly indebted to Niall and his panel of colleagues.
Of course the marvellous Davy (Dougal) Lyons, continues to administer to the players in his physiotherapy clinic. Davy has done superb work for the club for many years now. He is also in high demand throughout the athletic world, including IRFU and GAA.
The fourth official is Paul Conlon, having stepped down as assistant manager to take the demanding role of Club Chairman. He is dedicated and diligent. son of long-time member Harry. He takes over from the renowned and highly experienced Ian Bloomer, who remains in his role as the diplomatic referee liaison officer. You can smell the tea brewing already.
IRFU Head of Referees, Dudley Phillips is another valuable member for he is always there advising on laws and laws changes and interpretation. When required he runs sessions in this regard.
The Squad. It is a happy realisation that most of the successful squad of last season, remains intact, including the outstanding captain from 2022-23 to 24-25 Ronan Watters and lead forwards Mighty Mick McCormack and Tommer O’Reilly. Dan Goggin (AIL Player of season 2024-25) also returns.
There have been exciting additions, Rob Gilsenan – son of John Gilsenan – transferred from UCD – number 9. Aaron O’Sullivan transferred from Lansdowne – previously played for Ireland 7s team – wing/fullback. Oisin Kearney transferred from Garryowen – prop. Ruairi Shields transferred back from UCD – wing / fullback. Andrew Sparrow transferred from UCD – he is with Leinster Rugby Academy Squad. Oisin Michel transferred from Cornish Pirates.
Josh Gimblett – 5/6, coming from NZ, Josh has many years’ playing experience with Hawke’s Bay. Colm Reilly, our Connacht 9, has contractual future to establish yet.
Matthew Smyth, (direct from Clongowes Wood College) and David Leane (brother of Daniel Leane) are very promising U20s players who are also senior squad players, both are 5/6/8.
There are a number players who have left, some temporarily, such as Richie Fahy, 9. Others are, Andrew Keating, prop. Jamie Harding, 2, Hugo Conway and Michael Silvester, wings, Howard Noonan 2 and backrow, Paul Deeny second row and 6, Peter Ford, 12, Lúc Culliton, 5 and 6. (Concentrating on athletics). Outstanding young player Aaron O’Brien, has been awarded a Connacht Academy contract and so will not be available.
The List
Aaron O’Neill, Aaron O’Sullivan, Adam McEvoy, Adam Mulvihill, Andrew Sparrow, Cameron Stewart Ciaran Scott, Colm Reilly, Conor Dean (Captain), Conor Hayes, Conor Pierce, Craig Kennedy, Dan Goggin, Daniel Leane, David Leane, Ethan Baxter, Finn Burke, George Hassett, Greg Jones, Jack Halpin, Jack Nelson Murray, Jack Reidy Walsh, Joe Durkan, Joe Nolan, Jonathan Lynch, Josh Gimblett Kealan Quinn, Leandro Ramirez, Liam Corcoran, Luca Manselli, Mark Fogarty, Mark McHugh, Mick McCormack, Mick O’Gara, Myles Carey, Oisin Kearney, Oisin Michel, Peter O’Beirne, Podge Dundon, Richie Bergin, Rob Gilsenan, Ronan Watters, Ross Molloy, Ross Moore, Ruairi Shields, Shane McGrath, Stephen Kennedy, Thady McKeever, Tom O’Reilly, Zack Hopkins.
Profiles are available on the website.
Ahead:- Although it was clear that we had a fine squad with that vital depth required for a full season last year, the success surpassed all expectations and was a beautiful bonus. The clearly happy rapport between all the players and between them and the coaching/management group has been a driving feature in all the success post Covid. It is expected to continue, so we can be optimistic. If too the team can play with the adventure and pace of last season it augurs well. They will need to maintain that width in both attack and defence. The backrow has been commendable, full of pace and perception in attack and of fierce-some force in defence; that must also continue. It is important to keep concentration and an even rhythm without fluctuation, throughout the entire game. That concentration extends to minimising the error and penalty counts, if they fail to so that they will suffer. Playing to the conditions wherever and however, is something Mark and his colleagues have tutored well. At home the support factor has worked well and will again. They have there too, the Carvill Corner factor. With the prevailing wind and natural topography, exiting it can be almost Everestian. We must use it judiciously.
U20s Rugby. This area requires and gets close attention as many future senior and representative players are nurtured here. This season there are two teams, one in Premier1 and the other in Premier3. It indicates the success and desirability of the club and the assiduous work and attention by all involved. In fact this year there has been a concerted effort made to encourage recruitment. Influential Director of U20s Rugby, Vincent Murray, has dedicated himself generously to this group, over several seasons now along with young talented head coach, Sean Healy, dedicated Manager Gary Croke, and the rest of the group. Adam McInerney and Stephen Conboy, have been really active and effective in the roles. The recruitment drive has been a remarkable success and a credit to this group. Now the club looks forward to an exciting season. Everyone who has interest in the future of the club should make the time to see at least some of these adventurous games in the JP Fanagan League and cup campaigns. Along with above Finn Burke (a fine senior squad player) is assistant coach as is Martyn Van Eedan; and Dan Lanelli is the S&C coach.
Players:-
Props, Ciaran Scott, James Molloy, Jack Byrne, Paddy Tuite, Sam O’Shea, Alex Polickey, Adam Gibson, Roan Shiels.
Hookers Cillian Jacobs, Leo Keogan, Eoin Dillon, Cuan Enright, Oscar Weber, Bradley Flynn, Doire Sheridan.
Second Rows David Leanne, Paddy Power, Rob O’Connor, Rowan Finnegan, Luke Thorell (SA), Cillin Walsh Phillips, Sam McConnell, Daniel Boland, Jack Boles, Cian Nolan, Darragh Saunders.
Back Rows Matthew Smyth, Liam Flaherty, Daniel Flynn, Charlie Murray, Diarmuid O’Shea, Hugo Lorente, Ethan Ryan, Paddy O’Brien, Harry Montague.
9s Andy Stronge, Zac Doyle, Luca O’Sullivan,
10s Ethan Kenney, Harry Cooke, Will Rodgers
Centres William Hook, Scott Hickey, David Oaks, Harry Judge, Darragh Reanen, Gerry O’Grady.
Back 3 Jack Halpin, Matthew Morrissey, Luke Lennon, James O’Neill, Patrick Watters, Jamie Brosnan, Ben Hicks, Paul Walsh, Sean Murray, Derry Beausang, Toby Coleman.
Women’s Rugby
Sarah Brennan- Fallon has been involved in women’s and girls’ rugby at St Marys since its inception in 2002, as a player, coach, organiser and director. She is totally committed to female’s rugby and her club. Her family too have been part of St Marys for many years, and now Sarah’s husband has taken over as club bar manager, adding to the Brennan-Fallon dimension. The squad looks this year to progress further this coming season. The manager is Rhya Weafer. Women and girl’s rugby is of great importance to the club and as seen on the wider scale accepted as the highest grade female sport, offering skills, discipline, fitness, camaraderie and social interaction. Recruitment is on-going and progressing well.
With the growth of female rugby (women and girls) at Templeville Road, women have become more involved in all aspects of the club and are making a highly significant contribution to the club at all levels and on all fronts. Their role in administration is most important as their patience, eye to detail and determination is most valuable. There is a growing dimension and dynamism to women’s roles at the club. Marie Hammond was a pioneer and was followed by Aoife O’Donnell, the highly talented and erudite former and first woman honorary secretary, others like Deirdre Stapleton and Pearl Healy, Rebecca Edgeworth, Bronagh Logan and Rachael Starr are deeply involved in the running of the club and soon, as it should be, we shall have a woman president.
Core Rugby (junior, youths, mini, vets and Marys’ Stars)
Core Rugby is the heart beat of the club. It is with Junior Rugby that every club starts life and it is from there senior rugby grew and it is the supplier of most volunteers, managers, alicadoos and supporters. It is also the spring board for future senior players, and comfort zone for social rugby players; and top players who wish to play within their chosen parameters,
The Director of Junior Rugby is former president, Michael O’Flaherty, who has vast experience of junior rugby as player and manager and has been widely involved in youth rugby. His patient and fervent attitude is ideally suited to delegation and decision making in a fair and calm way.
J2s. This is ever the in between team, where those on the way up meet those on the way down. But is also one of the most successful groupings over the years with many trophies and beers to their names.
Two former senior players are the coaches Neil Murphy and Ian (Nelly) O’Neill they will bring out the best in this group while enjoying it all. The Captain is Dillon Zeidel. They are supported by their managers.
J3s and J4s
Head Coach Dave Gardner is the bedrock of core rugby. He was a senior prop for several seasons and coached at all levels for over 30 years now, he is a template for dedication, ability and loyalty. He has coaching with him up and coming coach, Ciarán Murphy; also Fran Pender (brother of the Senior Manager) and John Miller.
Captain J3: Stephen Campion Vice-Captain J3: Conor Sheridan
Captain J4: Dara Lynch Vice-Captain J4: Andrew Gibbons
Manager: Richard Fagan and Assistant Manager: Chris O’Connor both experienced volunteers.
JUNIOR 5 XV:
Head Coach Owen Clery: Asst Coach: Barry Norman, Captain: Alex Ryan Vice-Captain: Rob O’Connell,
Managers: Chris O’Connor & James Casey
VETS/J 6 XV/OVER 35 TAG
Captain: Chris Richardson, Vice-Captain: Gavin McConnell (former Hon Sec)
Manager: Brian Sheridan
YOUTH RUGBY (BOYS & GIRLS)
DIRECTOR is Robbie O’Neill who has been a marvellous asset to the club as he has worked for several years on the vital area of youth rugby. It is an area that allows a club build teams for the future from sources other than rugby playing schools and has immense potential. St Marys is extremely well placed geographically to benefit. He has been dedicated and active in recruitment, coaching and administration. He also, along with the outstanding former president Bobby O’Connor, introduced the Marys Stars, a team for any special needs players. This has proved to be a star success and the St Marys team has represented Ireland in international competitions.
The coaches and mentors are:-
U13 boys (born 2013) U14 boys (born 2012)
Andy Neary and Nat Hutchinson
U14/16/18 girls (born 2008-2012) U15 boys (born 2011)
Sarah Brennan-Fallon and Gavin Mitchell
U16 boys (born 2010) U18.5 boys (born 2008)
Paul Kelly and Alan McPhillips
Mini Rugby
Mini Rugby at Templeville Road is notable and famed throughout club rugby having over 90 volunteer coaches, and unlimited numbers players. It is over thirty years since organised mini rugby commenced in St Marys. It started as an ad hoc arrangement with Paul Andreucetti, Gerry Rylands and Dermot Nevin looking after things. Then the following season, John Pyne along with Eileen Fanning, were the first official organisers. Other outstanding organisers were the incomparable John Hammond, Anne McInerney, and Louise Crotty. Louise was the first women member of executive committee, 2002-03. Many of our great stars were our mini players at one time, like the peerless Shane Jennings, Ciaran Potts, Stephen Grissing, Conor Mc Phillips all part of the first ever squad. Darragh and Thomas Fanning (Sons of the club great Declan), Robert and Richard Sweeney, Vinny and Brian Hammond, Ray Crotty and the McInerneys. Also many of our members and top international stars have coached and brought their sons and daughters to play at St Marys. A number of parent coaches or guardians have ended up joining the club and becoming officers and/or committee members, such as Colin McInerney, Dermot (Barney) Barnewell, Patrick Crawford, David Mowlds, and more recently, Marie Baxter, who was a very popular and personable and Child Welfare Officer. Her son Ethan who, is now a top senior open-side for the club, was also a mini player. Conor O’Neill, Robbie O’Neill, Paul and Fran Pender, Rebecca Edgeworth and Bronagh Logan all were mini mighties. We have a culture of close attention to safety, enjoyment, fun and relaxed building of confidence and skills.
The dedicated Director is Connor Kinnear and, for Little Rugby Brendan Shortt.
Coaches Gary Masterson and James Casey.
Groups: – For boys, the age groups are U6, U7, U8, U9, U10, U11 & U12.
Girls’ mini rugby is fast growing at the club and we supply teams at
U6, U7/8, U10 & U12.
The club has introduced “Little Rugby Group” for both boys and girls at U3 to U5. U3 to U5
The admirable and diligent child welfare officer is Pearl Healy. She ensures all procedures and matters within that ambit are meticulously followed.
Administration
Sometimes the necessity of an administration is undervalued. However, the value of an effective, enterprising and sagacious committee is invaluable. We are fortunate that we have a particularly active and talented committee, with a president who, as you will note from above, is ideal for the current exigencies. He is backed by VP, Stephen Shirley who is a dynamo, full of joyful zip, knowledge and ambition for his club. He is a most personable man and has been intimately involved in many of the recent developments. He is dedicated to assisting and supporting his president. Likewise, JVP Gerry Hassett is a perfect fit for the present situation and direction. He is experienced in rugby matters and having been a leader in business and financial matters is in an especially good position to guide the club through any possible challenges in the future. The Chairman, Paul Conlon is again a dedicated Marys’ man and has shown his loyalty and ability in all matters club, rugby management and administration. His assistant, Gareth Roche is one of the most active driver of progress in the club, he was superb president and rugby manager. Paul has taken over from Brendan Spring who carried the role with outstanding distinction and ability. Brendan of course had the ideal background in business. His club experience was also a factor having been a fine outhalf and kicker. He was a strong and effective DoR during the 90s and president during the season of our first AIL Division 1 Trophy. He remains an active trustee and advisor.
The current Honorary Treasurer Maurice (Mossy) Davin is an all-round great for the club. He has played for many years, and has organised junior rugby for a prolonged period, he is involved in the “Comms” group. He is an archivist, an outstanding PR man and being an accountant a top class treasurer. His family too are involved in the club.
The new Hon Secretary, Lorcan Byrne, is a young man who has been a very active player, mainly in the junior ranks, and has been involved in management. He is amiable and personable. He has energy and enthusiasm and is part of a new wave of young members who wish to put something back into their club.
Niall Rynne who is highly respected and popular member who has played for his club, served on committee, was DoR and club president. He is now a top rugby administrator. He is chairman of the Management Committee IRFU and although extremely busy with his IRFU role he finds time to support his club with a rare enthusiasm and voice.
Key Club Roles
PRESIDENT Gareth Logan; CAPTAIN OF THE CLUB Conor Dean
CHAIRMAN Paul Conlon; VICE-PRESIDENT Stephen Shirley
JUNIOR VICE-PRESIDENT; Gerry Hassett
HONORARY TREASURER Maurice Davin; HONORARY SECRETARY; Lorcan Byrne
THE OFFICER’S:
Gareth Logan, Conor Dean, Stephen Shirley, Gerry Hassett, Paul Conlon, Lorcan Byrne, Maurice Davin.
___________________________________________________________________
Remainder of the Committee
ASST HONORARY SECRETARY; Keith McCarthy; ASST CHAIRMAN; Gareth Roche
CHAIRMAN OF RUGBY; Alan Shirley, LEINSTER BRANCH REP; Eoin Quinn
HOUSE & GROUNDS; Martin Blacker, CHILD WELFARE OFFICER; Pearl Healy
RFC REPRESENTATIVE TO PPU; Michael Fanagan
ELECTED MEMBERS
Sarah Brennan-Fallon, Rebecca Edgeworth, Mark Donnellan, David Lyons, Robbie O’Neill, Connor Kinnear.
CO-OPTED MEMBERS
Richard Fagan, Harry Ebbs & Alan McPhillips.
All these members are allocated specific roles and responsibilities, some take more than one area. They each report back to the committee. There are several other members who carry responsibilities and all volunteers are appreciated by the general body.
Some of the allocated responsibilities.
CLUB ADMININSTRATOR Gillian Shakespeare, CLUB GROUNDSMAN Peter O’Kelly
BAR SECRETARY Robert McHugh, CLUB BAR MANAGER Padraig Fallon
INTERNATIONAL TICKETS Colin Smyth, MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Vincent Murray
SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING, David Lyons
SOCIAL ACTIVITES Rebecca Edgeworth, COMMS GROUP Bronagh Logan.
CLUB SHOP Colin Smyth, Rachael Starr, Pearl Healy, Harry Ebbs.
FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES
Richard Fagan
DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE
Derek Gately (Disciplinary Officer),
Mark Donnellan, Paul Conlon.
GOLF SOCIETY & CLASSIC
Philip Brophy
INTERNATIONAL DAYS, CORPORATE EVENTS,
Marie Hammond and Ronnie McBrien.
TRUSTEES
Liam Birkett, Brian Fanning, Peter Smyth, Brendan Spring, James B Sweeney (one attends committee meetings)
Supporters and Sponsors
It will be clear that without supporters and sponsors a rugby club would be a sterile and doomed assemblage. They are two intertwined, symbiotic and interdependent groups. The Marys’ supporters are mainly members, members’ friends and families and the local community. Since the march to the top, there has been a march to the top of supporters too with growing numbers each season since the plague abated. They bring welcome clamour, cheer, atmosphere, income and joy. Rugby is almost unique, that rival supporters can mingle or even in groups cheer without jeer. There has been a tendency to disrespect kickers, cheer errors by the opposition, and even verbally harass referees. This is the antithesis sportsmanship and the ethos of the game (and game it is). It is the firm hope and wish of all genuine rugby supporters that that does not develop and we can enjoy the game and the pleasure of sport and sporting behaviour. It is hoped too that the players also will remain true to these mores.
St Marys is fortunate in having several generous sponsors who make it possible for the club to achieve its goals and remain successful and resourced. The unusual thing about our sponsors is they become embedded in the club and absorb the club dream. Going back to Firestone/Bridgestone in the 90s it has been so. It is so now with Maples and of course G-Mack is a committed member, as is the club legend that is Brian (Spike) Fanning of Serfac, also Brian and Aaron Hudson of H&M Ironworks and the Fanagan family, Charlie Chawke of the Chawke Group, Morgan Crowe, Jim Coffey of SoftCo and Manverton, Charlie Hamilton; and Gareth Logan of Taxifair. We have too, Kelly Walsh, NFP, Care at home, and Wild Geese. There are others too, some who take hoardings, ads in programmes, sponsor matches and the match ball. Also there is a trend towards streaming the AIL matches and these too are sponsored. There is however a fear that this may well take from attendances, and so revenue from the gates and bars; and the atmosphere. It is so easy to lie back and log on. However for those who are unable for whatever reason, or those who live far away, our wild geese, it is a boon. Tony Flynn and others come from UK quite regularly to support their club. Pat Drennan is a member since the 50s and lives in Australia, he is a Marys’ addict as is former president, Mervyn Johnson, and we have several supporters and members in USA including Paddy Dowling who was inside centre on the famous 1958 LSC winning team. In fact he and Johnny Lee (7), and former president and trustee, Vincent McGovern the fullback that day, are the only remaining survivors of Joe Fanagan’s pioneering team.
This season means a great deal to the membership and it behoves all members to get behind our President, Captain, teams and the volunteers who keep up the standard and ethos of our club.
The changing Season.
Blue, with mud and sweat, the jerseys stained and gory
Tell happiness or sad, the game and all its story
Clanking studs upon the floor, hissing of the shower
steam and mist, humid smiles, the weakness or the power.
And after yet the patted backs, else the eyes averted,
added cheers and anthems sung, greatest they’re asserted.
Each week anew the nervous strain, hope to gain in league,
Later on the points to tot, not feeling the fatigue
Gliding by, the season whirs, squad in joyous fusion
Each week passes further on, reaching glad conclusion.
At last the human thought exists, triumph to proceed
If not, next season will arrive, then we shall succeed.
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When we can we should try to help or subscribe and play an active role in making this a beautifully memorable and successful year. It is hoped that you will enjoy this special year. Thank you all.
The game’s afoot, as Sherlock might say!
D O’Brien
