Club News and Views
" All news is in chronological order so just scroll away" 
30 / 04/ 08
For Today's Match Weather From Belmullet Co. Mayo. Weather Station
30/04/08
Well the news is, that the last official competitive match of this season, is on Sunday 11th May, when our development team travel to Galway to compete against Corinthians in th Ard na Cregg Cup Final.This is the three in a row match and I'm sure that Westport's travelling support will be arranging for a helicopter, booking coaches, hiring minibuses, ordering a taxi, or getting out the push bike, to ensure they are there on the day. The lads have played a long and successful season with only one defeat (No I said we won't mention the sporting Buc's: Ed.) in twelve matches and are now poised to enter the history books if they continue to play with the determination and skill they have shown so far this season.
30/04/08 
The M J Henehans , Tag Rugby Competition starts next week at the Carrowholly clubhouse. Competition organizer Tommy Cadden is, as usual, in charge
Westport RFC will be hosting MJ Henehans Tag Rugby League 2008 in Carrowholly, starting Wednesday 7th May for people who haven’t played before or who are looking for a team, the introductory games will kick off at 7.30pm.
The league will start on Wednesday 14th May and all teams should be registered by Friday, 9th May by 2pm.
Again this year there will be a Super League and Social League with prizes for the winning teams in
both leagues and also prizes for the most sporting team.
For those of you who haven’t played before, teams are generally made up of 12 players(7 Men & 5 Ladies), 7 of these players will play at all times during the game with a minimum of 3 ladies playing at all times, there is no limit on substitutions so you can take a break when you need one. This is a non contact sport so it is ideal for anybody who wants a good run around.
The competition will be run on a league basis and the final night will be a knockout competition.
For people without Tag rugby shorts they will be for sale in Carrowholly. For anybody who would like to
referee during the competition please contact the number below. To register a team it will cost
€240. To get any details or register a team contact Tommy on 087-6488594 or email tommycadden@yahoo.com.
27/04/08
Three in a row is the target for our development team, when they travel to Galway next weekend to play Corinthians in the Ard na Cregg Cup Final. A fine win against the West Offaly Lions on Sunday booked them them into the final See match report The exact day, Saturday. or Monday not confirmed yet, we will keep you posted.
27/04/08
We wish Bon voyage and safe trip to the clubs touring team when they set of next Thursday to South Africa for what promises to be a rugby trip of a lifetime . Fat Andy would like a tour present of a few De Beers sparklers, if anyone has room in their luggage and Pete Carroll asks if someone will bring him back a bag of oranges.
27/04/08
Painless Joe tells me that the clubs dinner in the Castlecourt was a great success and a good night was had by all. A few bob for the club and a good night out, what more could you want , well, perhaps a bag of oranges.
27/04/08
Tough luck to the Connaught Juniors on the result, 5 points to 33, but well done to Westport's young contender Kevin Corcoran, who scored Connaught's only points, in its rather one sided match against Ulster last Saturday. Other Westport players on the Connaught panel are Danny O'Toole and Liam Scahill, next Connaught Juniora match is on 3/05/08 in Ballinasloe versus Leinster.
20/04/08
Well done to Monivea on their victory last weekend and the resulting promotion to AIL rugby.Its great to see Connaught teams progressing up the ladder. We wish them all the best for next season see report
20/04/08
It's dinner and dance time for the club. See Joe McGovern or Michael Mc'Loughlin for tickets to our clubs "bit of a do". It promises to be a great evening with food ,entertainment and good company. Mick Cunningham and the big cheese of the IRFU will be guests of honour and I know we will all want to support Mick in the last few weeks of his CBIRFU presidential tenure.
20/04/08
Well the seconds team are the last team standing in Mayo for the Ard na Cregg Cup
See match report page for last weekends report on our Tuam win, a good match to watch and good opposition
16/04/08
Places are still available on
2-day Occupational Sports first Aid course will be held in Swinford on Saturday 19th and Saturday 26th April, to apply please download application from our website www.mayosports.ie (click on ‘Calendar of Events’ on left hand side of home page) or contact the office for an application.
15/04/08
Irish Amateur Weightlifting Association (I.A.W.L.A) Level 1 Weight
Coaching Certification Course taking place in the NUIG Galway over 4 Saturdays in May and June. Please note that this course is fully recognized by the National Coaching and Training Centre and is the first time it has been held in this region.
The likelihood is that this will not be available again for a couple of years. Anyone who is involved in designing weight training programmes for teams, young athletes etc should consider availing of the opportunity. If you are with a club / organization and are looking to do this course contact us here in the Sports Partnership and some financial assistance may be made available.
14/04/08
Well it was a weekend of pirates, points, passion and plenty of beer, as both Westport's senior teams had noteable victories in their respective matches. Our first team had a hard won victory in Galway to win the Cawley Cup for the fourth time and brought the silver ware home to town, while in Ballyhaunis the development team sent bottom of the JD2 league Buccaneers to a watery grave, with a just desserts replay victory and now move on to the next round of the Ard na Cregg Cup.
14/04/08
Our reporter Fat Andy took exception to the behaviour of the Buccaneers team after the match finished They left the field, like beaten little children and failed to clap the referee or Westport off the pitch. Later when Westport's captain Damien Gibbons attempted in the dressing room to thank them for a sporting match, he was sworn at and manhandled out of the door, by a Buccaneers team mentor.
This unsporting behaviour, plus the original " mix up" in regrading players for the Bucs team, plus having a Bucs team official dismissed from the field of play last week, for verbally abusing the referee and having to play at a neutral venue, leaves a bit of a sour taste in the mouth, but a sweet, sweet try, solved these problems and I'm sure that the Bucanneers football committee will put their team management house in order before next season.
14/04/08
While the first team settle down to mowing the lawn and gardening, the second team will be playing the quarter final match of the Ard na Cregg, probably this Wednesday against and in Tuam. Fat Andy will confirm with me when he's told what's what and I'll let you know.
14/04/08
Maurius has flown home to S A to visit his daughter who was injured in a car crash. Everyone in the club whishes her a big get well soon.
09/04/08
Breaking news.
Bucaneers played at least two illegal players in their recent match with Westport development team in the cup match
and the Ard na Cregg Cup is again wide open and we are back in the fray. Buccaneers are not walking the plank and splashing out of the competition as Fat Andy thinks they should, but there will be a rematch played at a neutral venue.The venue is Ballyhaunis the date this Sunday13th April and kick off is 2-30 pm
Team Manager Pete Carroll did the detective work and on checking 1st and 2nd team sheets from previous games this season, found up to seven discrepancies. Bucs claim only two, but it beggars the old question, is it possible that you can be slightly dead? I don't think so, your either dead or your not, or misbehaving or your not. A big well done to detective inspector Pete, it appears however that the offence could only be described by the branch as a minor infraction in not regrading players so hence only a replay. Make your own mind up about that decision.
This is a bit of a dilemma for our traveling support, as it clashes with the Cawley Cup Final on the same day, when our first team will be matching with Corrib for the spoils of the day. It's make your mind up time, but Fat Andy will be heading for Ballyhaunis to see Bucs given their just deserts.
08/04/08
Fixtures
Westport 1st XV play Corrib in the Cawley Cup Final next Sunday 13th April at the Sportsground in Galway,
kick off @1.30pm.
Wesport RFC Annual Dinner
Westport RFC’s annual dinner will take place on Friday25th April in the Castlecourt Hotel. Guests of honour
will be the President of the IRFU and the President of the Connacht Branch. There will be entertainment and
a three course meal, proceedings will get under way at 8pm in the Ashleigh Suite. All members, players and
friends of Westport RFC are asked to support the night, tickets cost €60 and are available from
Joe McGovern and John McLoughlin.
Brawl wrecks charity rugby dinner
A huge brawl erupted at a dinner attended by some of rugby's greatest names to raise money for former England player Alastair Hignell, who has multiple sclerosis.
Players including Gareth Chilcott, Willie-John McBride and Roger Uttley looked on in shock as dozens of guests traded blows at the £300-a-ticket dinner at Grosvenor House hotel in Park Lane.
Two guests were knocked to the floor and one, a woman, was taken to hospital by ambulance with head wounds during the fight, which only ended when police were called.
A witness said: "All hell broke out. It was a very big scrap. At least two people were laid out on the floor - one of them was a young woman. "People were exchanging punches and there was a lot of screaming. They were mainly very well built amateur rugby types." The violence broke out when England fans taunted Welsh comedian Max Boyce as he made an after-dinner speech.
Welsh fans clashed with the England fans on a neighbouring table as those on surrounding tables tried in vain to stop it, but the fight spiralled, hotel security guards were forced to call for police reinforcements and staff put out a call for a doctor to treat the injured. Organisers had to end the evening early, before a planned charity auction. A police spokesman confirmed they had been called to a fight at the hotel at 11.35pm on Wednesday but said that no official complaint had been made.
Event organiser Martin Krajewski said the incident was " terribly embarrassing" for the former England captain and had been caused by a "few drunkards". Former England coach and player Uttley said: "In all my experience of going to these dinners I have never seen anything like it
Joe McGovern and John McLoughlin commented that it was not anticipated that Max Boyce would be part of the entertainment line up for Westport's RFC's rugby dinner, although the smash hit comedy duo, Bob and Dermot, may be present at the top table.
Last Years Dinner
06/04/08
Blowing snow and just no go, was the story this weekend as both our 18's and development teams were beaten in their respective matches. We will have to wait and see if we get some extra silverware next weekend when the first team play Corrib in the Cawley Cup in Galway.
Dessie Riedy tell us that the high light of the rugby season will be the Mayo Cup which will be contested over two days in May. Details here when they become availible.
31/03/08
What a weekend of rugby for Westport, for the first time Westport's development squad has won the JD2 league and to round things off the first team has secured a final spot in the Cawley Cup.
Our development squad beat a spirited and hard working Galwegians by 55 points to 0 and secured its league winners title and the subsequent cup presentation and celebrations were a joy to behold. The only black spot being a report from Fat Andy that the sandwiches ran out too fast and he didn't get any.
The first team had to work hard to beat a determined Tuam in the Cawley Cup semi final, but they rattled in two trys and left the pitch 17 to 0 winners.They will be in the final in Galway in two weeks time against Corrib. There will be eating and drinking in that game, so book your ticket early for a cracking match in prospect.
Our 18's team will be in Galway next weekend for the Connaught 18's cup final and I'm sure there will be plenty of support travelling to cheer them on. Which leaves the development team at home to Bucs in the first round of the Ard na Cregg . What ever team you decide to follow next weekend, you can be assured of some good rugby played at full tilt.
27/03/08
Both the Cawley Cup Final and Heineken Junior Cup Final will both be played at the Sportsground on April 13th.
The Heineken Junior Cup Final will be contested by Monivea and Galwegians while the Cawley Cup semi finals are set to take place this Sunday (kick off: 3pm).
Corrib host last years beaten finalists Castlebar, while champions Westport will host Tuam, with a potential rematch from last’s years final still on the cards. In the event of either match finishing level, there will be twenty minutes of extra time with the sides switching ends at the interval. In the event that the sides are still level the match will be replayed.
Painless Joe says " Keep the 25th of April free, something wonderful is on the way"
26/03/08
A feast of rugby is promised at home this weekend when our development team plays its ultimate league match against Galwegians and will then recieve the JD2 league cup. The first team will be playing the semi final of the Cawley Cup against Tuam. KO's are 3.00pm subject to any changes. Watch this space.
26/03/08
" Rugby Football is not a contact sport. It's a collision sport. Dancing is a contact sport."
24/03/08
The development team play their last league fixture of the season next Sunday 30/03/08 against Galwegian at home.
It is proposed that the JD2 Cup will be presented to them after the match. Watch this space for KO time and confirmation.
23/03/08
A great day at the office for the club today. Creggs bested away and the JD2 league in the bag.
First fifteen beat OLBC by 60 points to 14 and progress to the semi final of the Cawley Cup
The 18's team win a victory against a fancied Sligo in the semi final of the 18's Cup.
The news is that Kevin Corcoran has only to achieve two more trys to pass the fourty year record held by Stephen Walsh
21/03/08
Good news, the 18's are through to the semi final of the 18's cup which will be played against Sligo at home this Sunday 22/03/08
This team is on fire at present and it will be a great prelude to the JD1 Cawley Cup match which follows at 3.00pm v OLBC.
17/03/08
The Young Bulls marched in the St Patricks Day Parade as usual showing the falg for the club see photos
18's replay Quarter Final match v Corinthians will take place on Thursday in Galway, KO at 7.00pm
If you can make it the lads would much appreciate your support.
The first team will play OLBC at home next Sunday in the Quarter final of the Cawley Cup , while the seconds travel to Creggs for their penultimate league match.
16/03/08
The first game in the Cawley Cup was put to bed with a victory over Ballina.
Our 18's quarter final was nor so successful with a draw and a replay on Wednesday of this coming week
15/03/08
Our 18's team is playing on Sunday 16th at 1 pm before the Ballina JD 1 match Get down early and give them a shout
29/02/08
Development Team Coach and fixtures secretary Dessie has asked you all to be aware, that if your out of petrol and no one wants to give you a lift to Monivea, there will be a cracking game of rugby when J D 2 League leaders Westport, take on close rivals Castlebar, at Cloondish on Sunday next.
Both matches kick off at 3.00pm
Sir Les Patterson, Australian Cultural Ambassador has been on the phone to Dessie and is confident of Westports success this weekend
26/02/03
Junior Women's News
Last Thursday saw teams from Sacred Heart, Mercy and Presentation all competing for the title of Connacht Secondary School Tag Champions in the annual blitz, held this year in Salthill. Though the weather wasn't great it didn't dampen the spirits of the 100 or so participants from the various girls schools.
Organised into teams of 10, with 7 players on the pitch at any time, the action was fast and intense with each team playing 4 matches. Split into 2 pools meant that each team not only had to compete against other schools but also against their own classmates and this led to some very close games.
The event was refereed by the Connacht Branch's Ken Imbusch and Wendy Hickey and watched on by teachers and coaches from all the schools involved, including Orla Madden (Presentation), Gerry O Loughlain (Mercy) and Sean O Boyle (Sacred Heart). With 3 teams tied on matches won, it went down to tries scored to decide who made it through to the final with one of the Westport teams just pipping their Mercy rivals by a single try to set up and all Mayo final.
Their coach Sean O Boyle had this to say about his teams success "We are delighted to have two teams in the final, the standard was very high this year and though we were confident of reaching the final stages with one team we never expected to occupy both slots, it's a testament to the dedication of the players that we've ended with this result". The event was by all accounts a huge success with all the schools looking forward to the next blitz and a chance to even up the scores.
24/02/08
Next weekend we have two "biggies" Monivea away in the semi final of the JD1 Connaught Cup and Castlebar away in a
an important League match, which when we win, we have the league all but sown up. No excuses like "getting married" or "having vital brain surgery" will be tolerated, so make certain you are at one or the other of these matches.
24/02/08
Great result for the first team lads today Ten trys without reply from OLBC.It was always a match we were going to win but I don't thik we were expecting such a wide margin Congrats to Kevin Corcoran for his hat trick and well done S.O'B for crossing the white line as well
24/02/08
Ballina did not favour us with their company on Sunday for the JD2 clash. Phoned half past eleven and cancelled, 23 Westport players turned up for the match KO 1.00 pm to be disapointed. Pity Ballina could not find it in themselves to send down a token team for a conceeded friendly. I thought that that is what JD2 was supposed to be all about.
21/02/08 Team work makes all the difference
Players that kick together stick together
The Australian rugby career of Matt Henjak hangs by a thread as he awaits expected confirmation from the ARU that his contract will be torn up. A Rugby W A tribunal recommended dismissal for the Force halfback after his part in the February 10 altercation that left teammate Haig Sare with a broken jaw. The latter incurred a $5000 fine and eight week suspension for his actions.
Gay rugby row in Belfast
21/02/08
It seems a gay rugby side may be too much for the sensitivities of some Northern Ireland political entities
Edwin Poots, the sports minister in the Northern Ireland government reportedly told the Northern Ireland Assembly in Belfast that the Ulster Titans were guilty of discrimination, citing the unacceptability of an exclusively all-gay rugby team in this day and age. The Titans are bemused, as they say their side is open to all ages, creed, religion or sexual orientation, though admittedly it was created as a vehicle for gay people. Gay rugby is firmly embedded in some nations. New Zealand, for example, has teams in Wellington and Auckland which play in mainstream competitions, while such teams are well established in England.
( I think this is great, twenty years ago there would have been complaints that gay players were being discriminated against now according to some old prawn sandwich F*** the boot is on the other foot. What a load of toss, I think it's a great idea to have teams promoting rugby for people with a different sexual inclination. Remember sexual preference is not contagious or compulsory and what about the irish team, the Emerald Warriors playing in the J4 League in Dublin, so bring it on) says. Fat Andy
NEW NINE FOR GRUDGE MATCH
There will be little motivation needed for the often bitter France v England rivalry. The old foes and RWC semifinal opponents, clash in Paris this weekend with plenty at stake. The home side, with a youthful flavour under the guidance of Marc Lievremont, can cement its spot at the head of the Six Nations table with victory while for England, props Phil Vickery and Andy Sheridan return and halfback Richard Wigglesworth wins his first run-on appearance. France has named a greenhorn halves combination of Morgan Parra and Francois Trinh-Duc, and will entrust the goalkicking duties to No 12 Damien Traille, a non-specialist.
17/02/08 Unlucky Break
Commiserations to young Rory Ludden on breaking his leg in the Match last Saturday We all hope you heal fast.
Sunday 17th February 2008 Junior League Division 1A
Team 1 Score Score Team 2 Venue
Corrib 8 22 Galwegians Corrib
Sligo 14 5 Westport Sligo
OLBC 10 24 Monivea OLBC
Buccaneers 12 10 Corinthians Buccaneers
Ballina 10 8 Tuam Ballina
Home matches next Sunday 24th Feb. both teams in action KO 3.00pm
Travel to Sligo
A travelling weekend beckons as our two teams are away this coming Sunday . The first team is away to Sligo and the development team is away to Tuam. Both KO's at 3.00pm
Two seasons ago in Ballina, Sligo and Westport played to decide the destination of the 2005-06 Connacht Junior 1 League. After a cliffhander game, which went to extra time, Westport emerged victorious on that April evening with a drop goal in the last action of the day. Good man Eddie. On Sunday next in Hamilton Park the two teams meet again in the league. This time neither side will entertain league ambitions, but both sides need the points to move away from the relegation zone, although Westport, with games in hand, have no worries in this regard.
Games between Sligo and Westport are invariably very keenly contested affairs, and with so much at stake on Sunday, this promises to be another extremely competitive game.
The two sides also met in Hamilton Park in the league last season, and Sligo won a cliff-hanger by 10-5.it is probable that there will be no more than a score between the teams at the finish. Westport are strengthened this season by out-half, Lyndon Jones, the Connacht Branch Regional Development Officer, who formerly played in the AIL with City of Derry. They will have all their stalwarts in action, with Eddie Walsh at full-back, his brother, J.P. at No.8., who captains the side, and South African, Marius Boseman in the second row.
Sligo, without a game for three weeks, will field from a full squad. According to reports it's training has been going well so we can expect a huge effort from the home side. As this is the last home league game of the season, a big vociferous local following will be expected to urge the team on,.so Westport supporters saddle up on Sunday and head for Sligo.
Semi Finals Here we come
The Heineken Junior Cup Semi Finals were decided on Sunday with Monivea, Galwegians, Corinthians and Westport all advancing to the last four. Monivea overcame a tricky away fixture to beat Tuam by 30-10 and will now meet Westport at home in the semi finals, who beat Ballinrobe by 21-5.
The other semi final will be a local derby with Galwegians facing old rivals Corinthians, having overcome Castlebar and Buccaneers respectively. The semi finals will be played on 2nd March.
Heineken Junior Cup Quarter Finals:
Played on Sunday 10th February 2008
O: Tuam 10-30 Monivea
P: Galwegians 23-18 Castlebar
Q: Buccaneers 7-15 Corinthians
R: Westport 21- 5 Ballinrobe
Semi Finals: 2nd March
Galwegians v Corinthians
Monivea v Westport
Final: 13th April
What do you have to do ?
The CBIRFU website is still, despite e-mails and phone calls wrong for the JD2 league positions. I give up, will somone else please contact Eamon McGuffin and tell him we have played five games not four, the Bucs match has not been registered and we have no bonus point allowed for the Loughrea game.
New England Jersey
Chop & Change Chop & Change Chop & Change.
Please note that the Cup match v Ballinrobe this Sunday will KO at 2-30 not 3.00.
All future league matches will be, as notified, at 3.00 KO
Fat Andy Says
I normally have my Liquid lunch at 3.00
Sometimes I change to 2.30
On International days it's 12.00
Sometimes it's changed to 1.00 at short notice
Some days I get confused and wonder who exactly is in charge of lunch time.
Strange but true. Up to today's match, it was the16/12/07 since our development team played a competitive match.
Next Sunday Ballinrobe in the JD1 Cup at home and a proposed match for development team away to OLBC
Prize of a rashers sandwich for the first person to tell Fat Andy who it was, in a vital league match, when Mattie was captain and we were playing OLBC he ran uninpeded with the ball over the oppositions try line and going the extra five yards grounded the ball over the dead ball line ?
A little bird tells me that the new stand will be in place by this summer, all the impediments and hold ups are out of the way and we are nearly good to go on the project. Just as well as our existing venerable dug out was blown half way across rthe pitch by last weeks storm, it is now replaced but distinctly the worse for wear.
Clonmel Bus leaves Castlecourt Hotel at 5pm. Friday 1st Feb.
Check with President Bob for details or changes
Take you winter woolies as its going to be real cold
Please note that Kick-Off times for the rest of the season are back to 3pm. from this Sunday 03/ /02 / 08
Westport Prepare from Clonmel adventure
Special Report: John Mulligan
This weekend may be all about the internationals and the start of the six nations. However, in Westport, they have a much bigger game ahead of them as they prepare to face Clonmel in the quarter final of the All Ireland Junior Cup. Following their win over Castlebar in the first round and last Sunday's demolition job done on Connemara, there has been a level of confidence that with a bit of luck and with all guns firing, they could produce a result.
However they face a Clonmel side determined to go far in this competition, in their previous round they defeated placeBoyne 32-14 and fancy their chances of success. Coached by Fergus Timmons and captained by their number 8 John Long, Clonmel are currently 2nd in the placeStateMunster junior league division one, just four points behind current leaders Cashel. This season they already have taken the scalps of Bandon, leaders Cashel and Clanwilliam, a side that neighbours Castlebar would be familiar with having played them a couple of years ago.
But it is clear that Westport will have no fears coming into this tie following recent form. Plus Westport's record away from home is quite impressive especially against the so called better teams and Coach Marias Bosman will be sure that his team are prepared.
The predictions may read Clonmel, but Westport has proved time and time again that they can face anyone and the more you write them off, the more they will fight. It is also interesting to note that the kick off time of time12 noon is for those to watch the international and a bus is also planning to head for clonmel on the Friday evening. Those interested in travelling are asked to contact any member of Westport RFC as soon as possible.
No ref turned up for our Connemara match on Saturday ( he thought we were playing on Sunday) so at short notice Westport ref Bobby Halloran stepped into the breach and reffed the match, which kicked off late at 2-35.
To the best of our knowledge there is a coach travelling to the Clonmel match next weekend , off on Friday back on Saturday. but if you are travelling on the day be aware there is an early kick of at 12 am due to the international match at 2pm.Don't drive all the way down and arrive just as our match is finishing. Contact President Bob or Dessie for travel arrangments.
Fat Andy says
" As I'm not a mindreader will some one tell
me what are the arrangments for the Clonmel match,
send out an e-mail so we all know what's going on"
The development team will be playing it's fifth match of the season against Sligo at home next weekend, Sunday 02/02/08 Unbeaten this season and looking good for the league you can assuage your guilty feelings for not travelling to Clonmel and turn up next Sunday to give the lads a shout.
This weekends match v Connamara is to be played on Sat. 25th Jan. not Sunday. Kick off 2o'Clock
No club rugby this weekend, 20th January, as not only are Buccaneers otherwise engaged but OLBC JD2, have declared their pitch unplayable and have refused to travel to play in Westport which I dont think is the usual plan but we have no choice in it since they changed the rules
( How many times have we seen this senario played out ? not once I think. What do you think Mickey Mouse ? )
Westport 1st XV play Connemara in the Connacht Junior Cup next Sunday 27th January in Carrowholly, kick off
@2pm. Westport development have no fixture as yet but this may change, keep an eye on www.westportrfc.com
for details.
Our friend in Mid West Radio and the Connaught Telegraph, John Mulligan, is moving on to becoming the sports editor for the Roscommon Hearald. I wish him all the best in his new job and thank him for all his help and coverage over the years.
Christmas Swim
Thanks to everyone who took part in the Christmas swim and to Flynn Furniture for providing refreshments
afterwards. Can all players who were sponsored bring their cards with them to training next Wednesday for
collection.
Congrats to Brendan Carpenter picked no.15 for the 18's match Connaught v Ulster this Saturday. Two other Westport men are on the bench for the same match in reserve, Mathew Dempsey and Callium Southgate. Best of luck lads
Buccaneers managed to upset the Apple cart that is the JD1 league fixtures by not playing their agreed HJC match last weekend. Changes now have to be made to four clubs schedules to put eveything back on track SEE LINK
Monivea advanced to the next round of theHeineken Connacht Junior Cup with a resounding 31-5 win away to Corrib in the preliminary round.
Last year’s runners-up will now meet Gortin the first round after the south Galway side had a 10-8 win over Dunmore.
Corinthians, winners two years ago, had acomprehensive 27-0 away to Ballina and will now meet Portumna in the first round.
Westport were also big winners, posting a55-0 win over a depleted College side to set up a clash with Connemara next time out.
There will be a Mayo derby afterBallyhaunis defeated Carrick-on-Shannon by 19-0 and will now face Ballinrobe in the first round.
RESULTS
Corrib 5 Monivea 31
Ballina 0 Corinthians 27
Westport 55 UCG 0
Ballyhaunis 19 Carrick 0
Gort 10 Dunmore 8
FIRST ROUND
G: Creggs v Castlebar
H: Tuam v Sligo
I: Ballinrobe v Ballyhaunis
J: OLBC v Buccaneers/Ballinasloe
K: Galwegians v Loughrea
L: Portumna v Corinthians
M: Gort v Monivea
N: Westport v Connemara
Good result on Sunday v U.C.G., but no real indication of form against a weak team (see reports page and photos)
Westport v UCG, Sunday 13th January, KO is 2 O'Clock, not the usual 2-30 ***
A I. A. I. B. J D Cup News
Sligo will be at home in the quarter-finals of the AIB Junior Cup, but Westport will travel to Tipperary.
Sligo will host either Kanturk or Crosshaven in the last eight.
Westport will travel to play Clonmel in their bid to advance further in the national cup. ( It's a long way to Tipperary)
The quarter finals will be played on the weekend of the 2nd / 3rd of February.
Holders Seapoint are drawn away toTullamore, who knocked out Monivea ( It was a Real KO with flying stars ext )
AIB Junior Cup Quarter Final Draw
Clonmel V Westport
Navan V Clogher Valley
Tullamore V Seapoint
Sligo V Kanturk or Crosshaven
Have a look see at:
Top Local Derby of 2008
This Saturday, 5th Janurary at 2 o'clock, the eagerly awaited local derby against Castlebar takes place at Cloondeash.
This is a double header, as the teams are competing for the first round of the A I Junior Cup and also the JD1 League, all in the one match, so there is a lot to be played for and reputations are at stake.
.This is a match not to be missed, so a coach will be leaving Toby's at 1 o'clock for supporters who wish to leave thir cars at home and travel in style. Phone Dessie Riedy 087 6875900 if you are thinking of coaching it, so he can arrange a bus of suitable size,but if your taking your car I would reccommend an early arrival if you want to get a pitch side view through the windscreen..
Breaking News (Scroll down for details)
The December fixture Westport v Castlebar is off this Sunday, we are playing them in League and Cup in Jan 2008
.( One day somone will stick to a schedule or formulate a sensible one in the first place, playing on the 14th December with Xmas parties and college exams on, I ask you what genius thinks this is sensible? )
St Stephens Day
Captains XV v’s Presidents XV
The annual fixture between the Captains XV and Presidents XV will take place on St Stephens Day in
Carrowholly, kick off @ 2.30pm. This year the Presidents XV aka Development Squad has been on an
unbeaten run in their league while the Captains XV have had to deal with a few close defeats. This year
it should be a cracking game as some players put their hands up for consideration.
Tag Rugby
There will also be a mini Tag Rugby tournament on the day commencing at 2pm. Anybody interested in
registering please call Tommy on 087 6488594 or if you are an individual and want to find a team just turn up
on the day.
Christmas Day Swim
Come on out to The Westport RFC Annual Christmas Day Swim which takes place on Bertra Beach @1pm and work up a good appetite. Bring your togs!
Rag Tag and Tommy
We are going to have a mini Tag Rugby Tournament on St Stephens Day ,kick off @ 2pm.
We hope to have a minimum of 4 teams. There will be entertainment afterwards straight away
in the clubhouse until 7.30pm, it should be a good day. If anybody fancys rounding up a few
players let Tommy Cadden know and he will put your team on the list: tommycadden@yahoo.com
Fixtures new January dates
Westport 1st XV play Castlebar on Saturday 5th January in Castlebar in the AIB All Ireland Cup, this will
also double up as a Connacht Junior League game, kick off @2pm.
Fish and Pirates on the menu Sunday 16/12/07
The Castlebar v Westport game goes ahead as rescheduled ,this Sunday 16th December. Also the Buccaneers v Westport JLDII also goes ahead as scheduled this Sunday 16th December. This decision was communicated at the Branch meeting last night and there was no argument from the floor of the meeting. All were in agreement.
Christmas Swim
If anybody fancies a dip on Christmas Day don’t do it on your own, Westport RFC will hold their annual Swim
on Christmas Day on Bertra Beach @ 1pm sharp. Bring your beach shoes the tide is 0.5 meters at 12-30 and your in for a walk before you hit the water.
The big prospect, as mentioned below, became a negligible prospect, when the Castlebar match was abandoned by the ref after one minute, due to pitch flooding . The Development teams Bucs match away, was also called off at 10-30 am for the same reason, as was our 18's fixture at home. Al Gore said global warming equals warmer, wetter winters on the Atlantic seaboard and who are we to disagree. Next weekend Corrib at home for the 1st's and Monivea at home for the development team. (that's what's scheduled anyway)
Big weekend in prospect for Sunday 02/12/07
The league matches resume next weekend, so who wants to watch some good competitive rugby ? Well now's your chance, with our development team away to Buccaneers and the first team away to Castlebar, should be good, so travel if you can.
Horses for Courses
Dessie and the lads organised a great race night last Friday . Plenty of races and punters ensured a good social
club night out and the finances should be sound for another year. (see photo page)
That's the Breaks
We are sorry to hear Pat " Porter Pig" has broken his 
at training. Heal fast Pat
Fat Andy's thoughts for the day.
1/ Buy race night horse 2/ Don't be beastly to Corinthians
PRO Tommy says
Get your whip out at Westport RFC’s Annual Race Night!
Westport RFC are holding their annual race night onFriday, November 23rd @9pm in Walsh’s. Buy your horse
or sponsor a race, for details call Dessie on 0876875900. The're the best value horses you can buy or why not do a Frank Dunlop and buy a share of a horse sight unseen These one definatly won't die before they race.
Race Night Race Night Race Night Race Night
The Diamond Geezer, Dessie the Book, is organising the club's annual Race Night !
Club race night on Friday 23rd November kick off at 9 o'clock in Walsh's. Priority one is buy a horse, priority two is sell some horses and priority three is turn up on the night for a great evenings craic. Put the word about, this is a fun way of making a few bob for the club and having a laugh on the night. Contact Dessie 087 6875900 to give a hand.
Mid West Radio tells our correspondent Fat Andy that we are playing Ballina in the Cawley Cup in the New Year
Guess who we are playing in the first round of the AIB All Ireland competition on 6th Jan 2008 ?
I'll give you a clue, they are based about nine miles away to the East
Sunday 10th November Big Rugby Weekend coming up
Next Sunday both Teams are playing League matches. The first team play a JD1 league against Corinthians away and our second team in a change of opponent and venue play The West Offally Lions at home, why we are not playing Corinthians in the JD2 B league as scheduled is a mystery, so don't ask me, but it appears the entire league has been revamped and all the old fixtures changed. See fixtures page for new schedule.
* Match News Mixed frst's v seconds on Sunday 28th early kick off check with Dessie
Free weekend coming up for the players, so lets be having you down to the
Club Night Halloween Costume Party on Sunday 28th KO 8-30
Best wishes to all our Connaught players this week
U-19s. Lee Keegan. Liam Carpenter, Thomas Mc Donagh & Tommy English
U-18s. Brendan Carpenter,Mathew Dempsey
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Here we go again
Well no match last weekend, despite the promise of a game however the real McCoy starts on this Sunday 21st October, with our first JD1 match of the season away against Monivea. Come one, come all, hail rain or shine, lets travel for the first one against our arch rivals and give the lads a big shout on the day
Halloween Costume party.
The Westport womens team are assisting putting in a big effort to decorate and prepare the Club House for the forthcoming costume party on the bank holiday weekend 28th October .Tickets from President Bob and super Coach Eddie (no not that one, we wouldn't have him in the place after our RWC performance ) Walsh. Tickets €8 buy and costume up and enjoy.
Fat Andy gives you this topical tip
"Three Easy Ways To Improve Your Rugby "
1/ Move to Fiji
2/ Move To Fiji
3/ Move to Fiji
A return message from an e-mail sent out on changes that can be made if Fat Andy is notified in time
I would have plenty of suggestions for changes with I.R.F.U.'s agreed scheldude with Eddie O Sullivan for the next 4 year's, if you can pass these on to the revelant people.
Do they realise the consequences of leaving this agreement in place ? not alone for the Irish team but also for the provinces, morale already at a very low ebb !
Oh yes Eddie the pressue is on big style, mainly on your position, cos no one really expects us to beat Argentina, let alone qualify
Even the supporters are are circling their camper vans and saying " hey lads! that horse is dead, stop flogging it now " They're still Ireland supporters, so green in fact they want to spread a big dirty carbon footprint, to see something they've seen already in the last 3 weeks, but you Eddie just keep rowing back from any responsibility, secure your own position first.
Take out the hurley and sliothar, " I've nothing to do with rugby, not my fault " Geordan, picked, cos of injury to Demsey, now they can't say you dropped him, Hickie back for his final cap,
Oh yes, I could go on and on, Ireland 6/1 to qualify for the quarters, expect the tears to flow once the squad gets back to Dublin.
Fat Andy says
" This was sent to Fat Andy by a Westport rugby aficionado.
Just in case he is wrong ( Idon't think so) I leave it without a name "
He wasn't wrong What a shower, bye bye Eddie
Halloween
Club Costume Party Night
Sunday 28th October
At the Clubhouse Kick off at 9 O'clock
Ticket only €8.00
Finger Food, Music, Prizes and Craic
Such a good night it's Spooky
Lads and ladies This year we are not having a fancy dress party, but a Halloween Costume Party. "That's fancy for you" Tickets only this year, at €8 a pop and this year it is expected that we will get a great response from all the members and players, so it will be the same good night. Buy two a piece, one for you and the other for your partner and a great success will be assured and expenses covered.
Last year the decor, costumes, spot prizes and craic were mighty so let's be seeing you this year.
District League News
District League latest, It's Ballyhaunis instead of Castlebar next Sunday, KO 3.00 in Carrowholly.
Training days have changed from this week they are now Wed. and Fri. 7.00
Fat Andy says
"Can't train on Wens. & Fri. Pity"
Next weekends match against Castlebar at home is in doubt , as Castlebar are looking for a deferment.
The District league province wide, is not proving to be the panacea of all things as was expected by the Branch. The number of no shows is proving to be a cause of concern to the powers that be.
Westport Womens Rugby
Tracey Moran, our womens rugby captain, tells us that she is pleased with the response at training and expects as other sporting disciplines conclude their seasons that we will be in good shape to start competative matches in three or four weeks time.
Westport Youths Rugby
Westport u13 & u14 youth Rugby teams will train on Saturday mornings only @10am in Carrowholly. This arrangement will continue until October when alternative arrangements are made.
Mini Rugby
Westport Mini Rugby starts Saturday, 15th September, in Rice College @10am. For players not registered before please bring a copy of your passport or birth cert. Prices for children to register are €90 for one child, €130 for two children and €150 for three children. For details please contact Paul McAleer on 0861562094.
Youths Rugby
Westport Youths Rugby starts this Wednesday 12th September in Westport RFC, Carrowholly, @6.30pm. There will be training from all ages from under 13’s to under 18’s. For any further details, contact Frank McDermott on 086 0657141.
Training for Seniors
Westport Junior 1 and Junior 2 panels have commenced training. Training is on Tuesdays and Thursdays @7.30pm at the Clubhouse in Carrowholly. Westport’s season begins this weekend with the start of the District League, this is a warm up competition for the Connacht Junior League. The Connacht Junior League starts proper for Westport RFC when the 1st XV play Monivea in the first game away. In the meantime Westport play Ballinrobe next Sunday in Ballinrobe @3pm.
Womens Rugby
Westport Womens Rugby team are continuing to train under the watchful eye of Martin McNally. Dessie Reidy is the manager. Any women out there who still fancy turning their hand to the oval ball game are still more than welcome. All those interested in playing should contact Tracey Moran at 086 3409702 for details on training.
See weekend for Sat 01 / 09 /07 match report on Results page
Next Sunday the season starts proper with the first competitive match in the new District League away to Ballinrobe. K.O. 3' O'clock. Coach Marius is expecting a good performance from his squad, which should be at full strength for the contest.
Welcome to our new Polish players who came on for the second half of the Mullingar friendly match. Well done lads.
First match of the 2007 - 2008 Season
Well the waiting is over and the April thoughts of " I've nearly seen enough rugby this season" has turned to the expectation of watching some high class and sinciliating rugby, no not the world cup, but Westport 1st playing Mullingar 1st in a friendly match this Saturday 1st Sept. @ 6pm in Carrowholly. Let your partner finish cutting the grass and trimming the hedge, get on down to the pitch for a foretaste of this comming seasons rugby. See you there.
Westport Mini Rugby
Calling All Potential Mini Rugby Players! Registration for new players and existing players will take place this Saturday 1st September in Westport RFC Clubhouse in Carrowholly from 10am until 11am. For those players not registered before, bring a copy of your birth cert and 2 passport photos. Prices for 07/08 season are €90 for one child, €130 for two children and €150 for three children.
For any further details please call Paul McAleer on 086 1562094.
( Will all WRFC players look towards registering their new seasons membership as soon as possible. Remember if your not a paid up member you are not covered for IRFU player insurance and also the club can not allow you to play at the club grounds if your not registered)
Womens Rugby News
After very successful Mayo News Summer tag tournament, Westport Rugby Football Club are glad to announce the launch of the first womens rugby team who have had their second squad training session on Thursday last under the watchful eye of Connacht RDO Eammon Molloy.
The team will be coached by Connacht RDO staff over the coming weeks giving them a great foundation in rugby skills.
The team will be looking to play matches in September and are planning a trip to a Dublin club during the six nations tournament early in the new year .
All those interested in playing
Fat Andy's Inspirational Quotation
American Football team the Tampa Bay Buccaneers suffered one of their worst seasons in 1976 (won 0, lost 14). When reporters asked the coach, John McKay, what he thought of his team's execution, he said:
"I'm in favour of it."
John Harvey McKay, American football coach (1923 to 2001)
Big Fanfare Announcement 
Westport Women's Rugby Team
Brian O'Driscoll, Paul O'Connell, Eddie Walsh. Join the superstars and you to can make the grade in sporting and competitive rugby by joining, or supporting the new women's rugby team in Westport (not you J P)
Westport Women's Rugby Team have their first training session in Rice College on Thursday 9th August @7pm. All levels are welcome, if you are interested and can't make it or have any queries please call
Tracey on 086 34097002.
Invitation from Corinthians
Please find dear readers an invitation from our friends at Corinthians
(who unfortunately could not make it to our own Tag rugby Festival)
I'm sure you will respond with the usual Westport R.F.C. spirit
Boogie On
As you know by now there is a Music Festival in Westport starting, Wednesday 18th and finishing Sunday 22nd July. The music ranges from Smokie, Bagatelle to Mike Denver. Organiser Dazzle Disco Dick, needs a few volunteers to wear yellow bibs on the night and look like they know something. If you can help out please call Cosy Joe on 087 2461761 and he will give you more details. Dazzle Disco has always been a good friend to our club so if you can give Dick a dig out everyone will be a winner. The looking like you know something may be a bit more difficult for some of us, but if you follow the webmasters example, he has been doing it for years.
Connaught Coaching
This should prove to be an informative and Interesting day for anyone who needs to be fully informed as to the ethos, laws and direction of Irish rugby. Have a look at the speakers, bound to be good.
Connacht Branch IRFU
Coaching & Referee Conference
Saturday July 21st 2007
The Sports Ground - College Road - Galway - Connacht
Start 9am (Registration from 8:30am / Finish approximately 5pm)
Cost € 40 includes lunch, T-shirt and handouts
Time
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Speaker
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Session
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Notes
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8:30 / 9:00am
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Registrations and Welcome
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Welcome & introductions
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9:00 - 10:00am
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Michael Bradley Ireland “A” and Connacht IRFU Head Coach
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Halfback play in the modern game
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10:00 - 11:00am
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From David McHugh - IRFU world Cup Test Referee
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Managing advantage laws; the breakdown; how the referee sees it and how we should manage it
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10:45 - 11
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Coffee/Tea
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11:00 - 12:00am
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Ruth Wood Martin - Ireland Team Nutritionist
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Fueling Recovery for the athlete in the modern game
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Noon - 1:00pm
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Harry Roberts - former Springbok Hooker, Head Coach with Transvaal Lions U20 and Coventry Northampton
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Scrums - Alternatives in Scrummaging
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1:00pm - 2pm
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Lunch
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2pm - 3pm
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David Keane - Celtic League, European Cup and International Referee and World Cup U21/19 Referee
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Topic TBC
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3pm - 4pm
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Mark Harrington - IRB Coach Development Manager -
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Topic TBC
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4pm - 5pm
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Eric Elwood - Ireland U21 Head Coach and Connacht IRFU Assistant Coach
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Tactical Kicking in the modern game and how to be effective under pressure
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5:15pm - Close
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Thank you and departure
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ALL
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Calling all Players
We will be starting back training on Tue. 25th July, 7pm sharp, all new faces welcome. There will be a training weekend in Achill on Saturday 25th August. Training Sat. evening and Sun. morning, with team building in between.
The Club needs all players to attend, there will be a limited no. of players going, 30 including coaching staff.
Please contact A S A P:
Eddie Walsh 0876687162: Pete Healy 0872593489,
John Paul Walsh 0877406832 Marrius Bosman 0870559263.
Remember, in training: Athletic Calisthenics Helps Increase Lasting Lethality See you there
Westport Rugby Camp Entry form just scroll down
The Mayo News Tag Rugby League 2007 Finals Friday 29/06/07
The Mayo News Tag Rugby League 2007 Finals took place last Friday evening in Carrowholly. For a change the weather was dry and mild which made for a very enjoyable evening. In the Social Section the top four teams in the league made it through to the semi finals, despite of the best efforts from Club Physio who were defeated by Kellys Heroes by just one point. AMO and Mysterious Milk Tray Men captained by Paula Duffy made it through to the final,
Mysterious Milk Tray Men after a slow start in the league came good at the end and defeated AMO. AMO deserve a special mention on reaching the final, last year they lost every game in the league, but learned how to play in the process. This year they finished top of the league and made it to the final but fell just short on the night, however AMO won the spirit of Tag Rugby prize for playing their games in good humour and in a sporting manner, there were a few teams in contention for this prize, those teams who were new to the competition this year will be experienced next year and may top the tables themselves next year.
In the Super League it was last years winners The Young Guns and Rashers Batters who made it through to the final, Rashers Batters captained by Marion Sheridan, came first on the night.
The Spirit of Tag Rugby prize went to Ocean Spirit in this section. The team was made up of novice Tag Rugby players but put in a lot of effort over the competition, won their final game in the league and just lost by a point in the quarter finals.
Next year Ocean Spirit captained by Paul Collins and coached by George Visser will be much more experienced and will be jostling for a position at the top of the league table.
The presentations were made to the winning teams after the finals by Sinead Holmes from the Mayo News and Robert Kilkelly, President of Westport RFC. Despite some bad weather during the league most players enjoyed themselves and are looking forward to next years competition, in the meantime there may be mini competition held on a Saturday, keep an eye on The Mayo News for details.
Connacht v South Africa Tickets Match August 21st
Match tickets for the pre-season game between Connacht and South Africa at the Sportsground in August are on sale from Monday, June 25th. Adult tickets cost €30 and €10 for children for the game which will take place at the Sportsground on Tuesday, August 21st.
Tickets are available from www.ticketmaster.ie or by calling in person to the Connacht Branch offices in the Sportsground. Tickets can be reserved by phone by calling 0818 719 300 (local call costs).
Purchasing a season ticket remains the best value and guarantees entry to the glamour tie with the Springboks. Season ticket holders will gain free admission to the clash with the former World Cup champions and will also have the option of buying another ticket. Connacht CEO Gerry Kelly says that the clash at the Sportaground on Tuesday, August 21st, will be a sell-out, with season ticket holders getting first preference.
Season tickets are available on line on www.ticketmaster.ie as well as www.connachtrugby.ie. Season tickets are also available through the Branch offices at the Sportsground. The following are the price of the various season tickets on offer: Regular Ground €180; Gold (access to enclosed seating and bar) €255; Student/Senior €110; Family (two adults and two children) €320 and Junior (7-18 years) €60 Season ticket holders will gain entry to all nine Magners League games at the Sportsground, the three group games in the European Challenge Cup and all pre-season friendlies, including the eagerly anticipated game against South Africa on August 21st.
Gold season ticket holders should note that they will not have access to the enclosed seating and bar for the South Africa match as this part of the stadium will be required for corporate hospitality.
There will be one more round of League games next Wednesday 27th June, see fixtures below. The Finals will take place two days later on Friday 29th June. All teams will qualify for the final night, teams will be seeded according to their finishing place on the league table, the finals will be run on a knockout basis. There will be a Jumbo Barbeque on the final night, Music will be by Dazzle Disco, even if you aren’t playing on the night come on down
. The Social League threw up a few surprises last week, Allergan All Stars are coming good at the business end of the League and defeated Mysterious Milk Tray Men. The Mayo News defeated the slightly off form Club Physio after Louise Berry scored the winning three pointer. Charlies Angels took a turn for the worse and went down heavily to Kellys Heroes, Charlies Angels could do with a miracle at this stage of the competition to resurrect their hopes of winning the silverware. Hearstoppers got the better of The Cheeky Monkeys in the final game of the night, the Cheeky Monkeys legs gave way in the final few minutes not their hearts.
In the Super League Walsh’s Wibbly Wobbly Wonders eventually delivered on their talent and knocked the table topping Young Guns from their perch. Rashers Batters had the big guns out against Sweet Seven, the form Rashers Batters were in was unstoppable. Ocean Spirit are getting closer to their first victory against Da Playerz but came second again on the night. CocoNuts came out on top in another tight encounter against The Singinging Lumberjacks, the Jacks will have to start felling some teams if they are to get their hands on the silverware.
All Tag Rugby Teams must pay their registration fee before kick off next week, the fee is €240 per team, there are still teams who haven’t paid from other competitions so if there is no pay before kick off, no play. Can all referees turn up ten minutes before kick off next week, it ensures all games kick off on time, referees are assigned games for next week, please see fixtures. If you have any queries about next weeks fixtures contact Tommy (087 6488594).
Westport Rugby Camp Entry form
IRFU and Ulster Bank in association Westport R.F.C.
We are pleased to announce the return of the Official IFRU Summer Camp Westport. Meet the Connaught players and learn from the masters. Great fun and a real learning experience under proffessional and experienced supervision. Six years to fourteen years, lads and ladies.
big social event
