Balbriggan Rugby Club held their Centenary Gala Ball in the Bracken Court Hotel on Saturday 29th November. On 10th November 1925 the Club along with Navan RFC, was officially affiliated to the Leinster Branch of the IRFU.
The event was attended by 160 Club Members and guests. President Kevin Colman welcomed special guests, Dr John O’Driscoll, President of the IRFU and Moira Flahive, President of the Leinster Branch. In his speech John had to admit to being a Skerries man before moving as a child to the UK. Also in attendance was former Irish International, Leinster Manager and Skerries man, Jim Glennon, and current international Linda Djougang. Club Treasurer, Robert Cashell did a Q&A with Jim and Jim regaled those present with stories of his father and uncles who had played for Balbriggan many years ago. Past President Ivan McFadden got to question Linda on her fascinating story as to how a girl from Lusk got into the world of Women’s Rugby and now is one of the first names on the Irish team sheet.
Other notable attendees included former coach and proprietor of John D’s – Tom Young, and Dale McAuley who had travelled all the way from Australia to join in the celebrations. Dale’s work twenty years ago laid the foundations of the youth systems in the Club which still stand to this day.
As the Club starts into its second century there is plenty of activity going on in the Club. Presently the Club fields four adult teams, two men and two ladies as well as youth and mini teams for both boys and girls from 5 to 18. The Club also had a disability Tag team, The Stingers who train every second Sunday morning.
The teams train at the Club grounds in Balrothery and there is something on every night of the week. The mini section 5-12 year olds train on a Thursday evening 6-7pm. New members are always welcome.
If you would like any further information on the Club give Director of Rugby, Jeff Neville a call on 085 724 5733




