Queens University Belfast have always had a strong connection to Ulster Rugby. Their Hall of Fame is home to some of not just Ulster, but Ireland’s finest too.
Tommy Bowe and Iain Henderson are just two of their recent former pupils who have gone on to enjoy success not only with province and country, but also the British and Irish Lions.
While others before them include Nigel Carr and the legendary Jack Kyle.
Recently Queens have found themselves in the lower regions of the All-Ireland League, and even had a short spell in the junior ranks.
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But the boys from the Dub Lane have regrouped, and climbed their way back to Division 1b and after avoiding relegation by the skin of their teeth last season, Derek Suffern’s outfit are hoping to kick on to the next level with a little bit of help from the Ulster Academy.
Last season a new partnership was announced of a pathway for Ulster Academy players to not only continue their development work with Ulster at Ravenhill but also to play their club rugby with Queens in the AIL on a Saturday afternoon.
The project is still in its infancy, but as Charlie Irvine explains, the benefits are already being felt.
“I suppose having the academy and the seniors together means we have numbers. With the academy especially, you’re only going to get maybe only twenty of us. Now we get to train with the senior team and it brings our levels up,” said Irvine.
“For them (Ulster) it gets their numbers up too. And if we can keep up the standard then I’m hoping we can stay there all season.”
As a second row Irvine has teamed up with the experienced Alan O’Connor during training sessions and as he explains, the learnings have been massive.
“Like he’s a seriously intelligent player. Something I’ve really enjoyed doing.
“To be able to work with him and train with him in the same team, in a lineout he’s running, it’s a massive learning for young second row,” added Irvine.
Back-rower Tom Brigg, joined Ulster last year. After seeing his pathway through the Leinster system somewhat congested, Brigg moved north to further his career and so far, the Dubliner has no regrets about his decision.
“It’s incredibly important. We get a tremendous amount of exposure and experience, Especially with Richie (Murphy) and new coaches. said Brigg.
“We have the S&C’s looking after you, the nutritionists, it helps you grow as a rugby player. You know, most of us have dreams of becoming a professional rugby player and cracking on and having many caps one day. When you have those sort of people in that pathway helping you, it’s incredible.
“I know other provinces have set-ups like this, but to have such a good one as we do up here, it’s great to have.
“And it’s nice as well to come to Queens and to able to play for a team you’re also passionate for.”
