Ulster Rugby Summer Camps In Full Swing

As the sun shone on Belfast last week, the 5-day Methodist College Ulster Rugby Summer Camp, sponsored by retail group Centra, got underway at Pirrie Park.

A large contingent of children aged 6-13 years came along to Pirrie Park this week for the Methodist College Ulster Rugby Summer Camp. The children were taught new rugby skills by experienced coaches, and were put through their paces in a series of fun games and drills.

The camp ran for 5 days, during which time the kids developed their rugby skills and made new friends in a fun and safe environment. Undoubtedly, the highlight of the week was the visit to the camp by Ulster players Declan Fitzpatrick and Paul McKenzie. The players dropped in to meet the children and sign autogaphs, and to tell them a bit about life as a professional rugby player. Following a question answer session, in which the children could quiz the players on all things rugby, the players had their photos taken with some of the children and representatives from sponsors, Centra.

Elsewhere last week Enniskillen RFC hosted the second of the week’s summer camps, with children from the Fermanagh and Tyrone area taking part and joingin in fun games, learning new skills. Ulster players Seamus Mallon and Daniel Roach. In a similar format to the Methody camp, the players signed autographs, had their photos taken with the children and spoke about life as a professional player.

This year’s Summer Camps have recieved a great response so far and large numbers have turned up to all the camps. There are, however, a number of places still remining at camps this summer, with the exception of Campbell College which is now full; but organisers are keen to encourage early booking to avoid disappointment. Camps cost £75 and children receive an Ulster Rugby back pack with a variety of goodies and rugby accessories.

The following camps are still to come this summer:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

28th July- 1st August- Ballymena RFC, Lisburn RFC and Portadown RFC

4th-8th August- Campbell College, Newry RFC and Omagh RFC

11th- 15th August- Carrickfergus RFC, R.B.A.I. (Osbourne Park) and Rainey Old Boys RFC

18th- 22nd August- QUB (Dub playing fields), City of Derry RFC and Ards RFC

For further information on any of the Ulster rugby Summer Camps, please visit the Ulster Rugby website