Rugby Club Issue 52 | Page 42

clanwilliam FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG Clanwilliam RFC F irst established in 1879 Clanwilliam FC is based at Murgasty in Tipperary. They are currently led by President Johnny Lonergan who is supported by Secretary David Moloney and the club has been progressing well under their guidance. They have put together a history of which they have every right to be proud, having celebrated their 135th anniversary last year, making them the sixth oldest rugby club in the country. Over the year’s they have played at a number of different locations and have now settled at Clanwilliam Park having moved there in 1956. This season their first team has been in terrific form and have yet to lose a fixture as the season draws to a close. To go unbeaten for the full year would be a terrific achievement for the side and there is a confidence amongst the players that they can do so. Off the field the club is able to boast some high quality facilities with a playing pitch, training area, changing rooms and a large hall with bar and catering facilities. Their progressive nature is also highlighted by the fact that they have established a second playing field at Collegelands, Tipperary. One of the standout features of the club is their superb youth section and 42 Issue 52 the club’s mini coordinator Martin Daly told www.independent.ie, “The club received the Munster Mini Club of the Year award in 2013 and that has come as a result of hard work over a number of seasons from coaches, parents and the growing numbers of kids playing in the club. Last season, we fielded teams from U6s to U12s and played matches every fortnight in the East Munster region. It was a very busy season; we played over 20 games in total home and away with a big emphasis on fun, enjoyment and everyone getting game time. Our U6/7 section is growing every week, here these eager kids are taught to run, pass, dodge and score in a non-contact environment. This is a joy to watch and with plenty of coaches at hand, they pick up the skills very quickly. We have three or four coaches with each age group, this helps every child learn the basic skills of the game in a safe and friendly environment. The coaches place a big emphasis on team work, respect for each other, the opposition and most importantly the referee.” Rugby Club Magazine wishes them the best of luck for the future. www.pitchero.com/clubs/clanwilliamfcrugby- Twitter : @clanrugby