The rugby seasons kicked off on Saturday last with the first training sessions taking place. There was a great buzz around as the pupils returned from their long holidays and some picking up a rugby ball for the first time. Our youngest players - the Form I boys (affectionately called "The Ducks") were put through their paces by coaches Johnny Butler, Willy Gibbs & Michael O'Shaughnessy. The Form II boys new to the game, 'The Leps', are being trained this year by Old Columban Tom Gibbs & Paul Delaney. The JCT, which look strong this year, are being trained by Aoife Thompson, Peter Stevenson and newcomer Pat Tipper. Any Transition Year pupils not on the extended SCT panel are getting to hone their skills with Barry Finn, Mike Elliot Murray and Sean Duffy. The SCT have Corry McCarthy as their Head Coach this year, with Andy Mitchell taking charge of the backs. All teams are being guided by Head of Rugby Paul Cron, with Graham Dean responsible for strength and conditioning.

We look forward to posting results, match reports and rugby photos here over the coming year. Click on 'follow' below to get updates to your dashboard.

H. Jones