Glastry College is on the cusp of significant semi-final matches in the High Schools’ Cup, with the potential to make history and revolutionise rugby within the school. The U16 and U14 teams are poised to compete in upcoming matches, which will be broadcast on Freeview channel 276.
The U16 team is scheduled to take on Dunclug College at Mallusk this afternoon, while the U14 team will engage in a Co Down derby against Strangford College at Ards RFC on Friday.
James Neill, the Head of Rugby, is optimistic that advancing to the last four in both competitions will firmly establish the sport at the traditionally football-oriented Ballyhalbert school, which boasts a student body of over 600. The school had not previously delved into the realm of rugby until recent years.
The initiation of rugby at Glastry College traces back to 2003, when the late Chris Ferguson, a former teacher, introduced the sport from scratch. However, the program experienced a setback following Chris’s passing in 2014, resulting in a lack of competitive teams and diminished student interest.
At present, James Neill, alongside two other coaches, has been dedicated to nurturing the rugby program and has witnessed substantial progress, particularly in the U16 team, despite the limited training opportunities due to the school’s rural location.
The institution aspires to establish a lasting legacy by progressing to their first finals in the history of the school. Neill underscores the profound impact of this feat in transitioning from a historically football-centric institution to one embracing a burgeoning enthusiasm for rugby.
This achievement not only holds significance for Glastry College but also bears the potential to stimulate newfound interest in rugby within the local community. Neill posits that the success of the college’s rugby program may, in turn, positively influence local rugby clubs, attracting a greater number of young players to the sport.
As anticipation mounts for the pivotal semi-final matches, the entire school anticipates that these games will mark a fundamental shift for rugby at Glastry College. The escalating enthusiasm for rugby amongst the students and increased participation in the sport are indicative of the positive trajectory of the rugby program.
In conclusion, the school’s remarkable journey in the High Schools’ Cup has not only instilled pride and excitement among the students and staff, but is also anticipated to have far-reaching impacts on the future of rugby at Glastry College and the surrounding community.