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Ulster Rugby

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Ulster Rugby
NicknameThe Ulstermen
Founded1879; 147 years ago (1879)
LocationBelfast, Northern Ireland
GroundRavenhill Stadium (Capacity: 18,196)
ChairmanHugh McCaughey
CoachRichie Murphy
CaptainIain Henderson
Most appearancesRob Herring (268)
Top scorerDavid Humphreys (1,585)
Most triesAndrew Trimble (76)
LeagueUnited Rugby Championship
2025–269th
Team kit
Official website
ulster.rugby
Current season

Ulster Rugby is one of the four professional provincial rugby union teams from the island of Ireland. They compete in the Irish regional pool of the United Rugby Championship and in the European Rugby Champions Cup, each of which they have won once. Ulster were the first Irish team and the first team outside England and France to win the European Cup in 1999.

The team represents the IRFU Ulster Branch, which is one of the four primary branches of the IRFU and is responsible for rugby union throughout the geographical Irish province of Ulster, comprising Northern Ireland (Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Derry and Tyrone) and three counties in the Republic of Ireland which are Donegal, Monaghan and Cavan.

Prior to professionalisation, Ulster were a representative amateur team taking part in the IRFU Interprovincial Championship. They have also competed in the now defunct Celtic Cup (2003–05). Their development team, Ulster A, formerly known as the Ulster Ravens, have competed in the British and Irish Cup (2009–18) and a revived Celtic Cup (2018–20).

The Ulster women's team compete in the IRFU Women's Interprovincial Series.

History

[edit]

Foundation (1868–1879)

[edit]
Map of IRFU provincial branches

A number of clubs were operating in Ulster prior to the foundation of the Irish Rugby Football Union and the Ulster branch. The Belfast-based North of Ireland F.C., founded in 1868, was the earliest club to operate in the province. Clubs from this era still in existence include Dungannon and Queen's University. The first Irish inter-provincial game took place in 1875 between Ulster and Leinster, with Ulster being the victors.[1] In Ireland's first international match, which was played in 1875 against England, eight Ulster-based players took part. Rugby in Ulster at this time was mostly overseen by the Irish Football Union, with the Northern Football Union of Ireland controlling the game in Belfast. The two unions amalgamated in 1879, with the provincial branches of Ulster, Leinster and Munster being founded as part of the terms of this arrangement.[2] The final Irish provincial side, Connacht, was founded in 1885.[3]

Amateur era (1879–1995)

[edit]

During the amateur era Irish players primarily played for their respective clubs, with provincial games effectively treated as Irish trial matches.[4] The provincial teams were also used to provide competitive club opposition for touring international sides. Inter-provincial games were played on an irregular basis but starting in the 1946–47 season, the provinces played against each other in the annual Irish Interprovincial Championship.[3] Ulster won this tournament 26 times in total, with eight of these titles being shared.

Ulster first appointed a coach in 1969. The first three coaches enjoyed great success in the Interprovincial Championship. Under Ken Armstrong[5] Ulster won the title unbeaten in 1969 and 1970, and finished second, losing only once, in 1971.[6] He was succeeded by Maurice Crabbe, under whom Ulster shared the title in 1972, came third in 1973, and won it in 1974. George Spotswood then led Ulster to a shared title in 1975, an unbeaten championship in 1976, and another shared title in 1976. Under Cecil Watson, Ulster came third in 1978 and fourth in 1979, and came third in 1980 under Matt Gillen, before form began to return under Willie John McBride, who led them to second place in 1981 and a shared title in 1982.

Their most sustained period of success began under Jimmy Davidson. In his first season, 1983, Ulster finished third, before he led them to three straight undefeated championships in 1984–86. Harry Williams succeeded him, and under him Ulster shared the title in 1987 and won three straight undefeated titles in 1988–90. Then Davy McMaster led Ulster to two undefeated titles in 1991 and 1992, and a shared title in 1991. Under these three coaches, Ulster won or shared ten Interprovincial Championships in a row.[7][8][9]

Brian Bloomfield was the final coach of the amateur era, coming joint second in 1994.

Transition to professionalism (1995-2001)

[edit]

After rugby union was declared open to professionalism in 1995, the IRFU gradually developed the provincial sides as professional teams.[10] The Heineken Cup was launched in 1995 to provide a new level of European cross-border competition.[11] Ireland chose to enter provincial teams rather than clubs.[12] They were given three places, and entered the top three teams in the Interprovincial Championship.[13] In their first professional season, under Brian Bloomfield, Ulster finished bottom of their Heineken Cup group, but qualified for the following season by finishing second in the Interprovincial Championship. The following season, coached by Tony Russ, they finished fourth of five in the pool stage of the Heineken Cup, and third in the Interprovincial Championship. Russ quit, and was replaced by Davy Haslett for the 1997-98 season. Ulster finished fourth of four in the pool stage of the Heineken Cup, and third in the Interprovincial Championship. The Ulster Rugby Awards were launched this season, with Andy Ward named player of the year.[14]

For the 1998-99 season, Harry Williams returned as coach, and Ulster benefited from a drive by the IRFU to bring Irish players who had signed contracts in England back to Ireland, with David Humphreys, Mark McCall, Jonny Bell, Allen Clarke and Mark Blair returning to the province, and Simon Mason and Justin Fitzpatrick joining for the first time. Captained by Humphreys, Ulster became the first Irish province to win the Heineken Cup, beating French side Colomiers 21–6 in the final at Lansdowne Road in Dublin.[15] The Provincial Championship expanded to a six-game, home and away schedule, and Ulster finished second. Simon Mason was player of the year.[16]

Williams coached Ulster for two more seasons,[17] but success eluded them. In 1999-2000, they finished bottom of their pool in the Heineken Cup and second in the Interprovincial Championship. Tony McWhirter was player of the year.[18] In 2000-01, they again finished bottom of their Heineken Cup pool, and second in the Interprovincial Championship. Tyrone Howe was player of the year.[19]

Launch of the Celtic League (2001-2003)

[edit]

In 2001-2002, Ulster appointed former Stormers head coach and Springboks assistant coach Alan Solomons as head coach. The Celtic League, featuring all four Irish provinces as well as teams from Scotland and Wales, launched this season, beginning as a seven-game round-robin tournament with playoffs.[20] Ulster finished second in Pool A, defeated Neath in the quarter-finals, but went out to Munster in the semi-finals. They finished second in their pool in the Heineken Cup, and second in the final Interprovincial Championship, based on games played between the provinces in the Celtic League, plus four additional matches at the end of the season. David Humphreys was player of the year,[21] the Celtic League's leading scorer,[22] and set a Heineken Cup record by scoring 37 points in one game.

The next season, Ulster finished third in their pool in the Heineken Cup, and third in their Celtic League pool, qualifying for the playoffs. They beat Glasgow in the quarter-finals, but again went out to Munster in the semis. They qualified for next season's Heineken Cup as the second placed Irish team in the Celtic League. Bryn Cunningham was player of the year.[23]

Full professionalism (2003-2006)

[edit]

In 2003-04, the Celtic League expanded to a twelve-team, 22-game home and away schedule, alongside a knockout Celtic Cup. This, alongside the Heineken Cup, meant the Irish provincial teams were now full-time professional operations - prior to this, players had time to play for their clubs in the All-Ireland League alongside their provincial commitments.[24] Ulster finished second in the Celtic League, and won the Celtic Cup, defeating Edinburgh in the final.[25] In the Heineken Cup, they finished third in their pool. Roger Wilson was player of the year. Alan Solomons left at the end of the season, boasting a three-year unbeaten home record in the Heineken Cup.[26] He was replaced as head coach by Mark McCall.[27]

The following season, Ulster finished third in their pool in the Heineken Cup, went out in the quarter-finals of the Celtic Cup, and finished eighth in the Celtic League, qualifying for next season's Heineken Cup as third placed Irish province. Neil Best was player of the year.[28] In 2005-06, bolstered by the signing of Australian international lock Justin Harrison, Ulster won the Celtic League, the title decided on the last day of the season, with David Humphreys' 40-metre drop-goal against Ospreys edging them ahead of Leinster in the table.[29] Tommy Bowe was the league's top try scorer with ten. They finished third in their pool in the Heineken Cup. Andrew Trimble was player of the year.[30]

Decline (2006–2010)

[edit]

Ulster started the 2006–07 season well, including beating Toulouse 30–3 in the Heineken Cup.[31] But this form did not continue, they were eliminated from the competition early, and finished fifth in the Celtic League. Back row forward Roger Wilson was Player of the Year.[32]

Opreys v Ulster in 2008

The team began the 2007-08 season with a poor run of results, and Mark McCall resigned in November following Ulster's embarrassing 32–14 home defeat to Gloucester in the opening round of the 2007–08 Heineken Cup.[33] Assistant coach Steve Williams took temporary charge, and Matt Williams took charge in February, but failed to turn the season around, with Ulster finishing 9th in the 10 team Celtic League. Centre Darren Cave made his debut from the academy.[34] At the end of the season wing Tommy Bowe, who was named Player of the Year,[35] left for Ospreys.[36] Roger Wilson went to Northampton Saints.[37] Out-half David Humphreys retired, and was appointed the province's Director of Operations.[38]

The following season out-half Ian Humphreys, David's younger brother, was signed from Leicester Tigers.[39] Ulster finished third in their Heineken Cup group and eighth in the Celtic League, and Williams resigned.[40] Hooker Rory Best was Player of the Year.[41]

For the 2009-10 season a new management structure was put in place, with David Humphreys as director of rugby and Brian McLaughlin as head coach, assisted by Jeremy Davidson and Neil Doak.[40] New signings included lock Dan Tuohy from Exeter.[42] Centre Nevin Spence made his debut from the academy.[43] The season saw an improvement in Ulster's Heineken Cup form, including their first away win in England against Bath,[44] but they finished eighth in the Celtic League. Flanker Chris Henry was Player of the Year.[45] At the end of the season, scrum-half Isaac Boss left for Leinster,[46] and prop Justin Fitzpatrick retired.[47]

Revival (2010–2014)

[edit]

The 2010-11 season saw significant improvement. Ulster signed key players including 2007 Rugby World Cup winning Springboks Ruan Pienaar[48] and Johann Muller.[49] Out-half Paddy Jackson.[50] and centre Luke Marshall[51] made their debuts from the academy. Ulster made the semi-finals of the Celtic League and the quarter-finals of the Heineken Cup. Ruan Pienaar was Player of the Year.[52]

New signings for the 2011-12 season included prop John Afoa[53] and utility back Jared Payne.[54] Academy lock Iain Henderson made his senior debut.[55] Ulster reached the Heineken Cup final, losing to Leinster at Twickenham.[56] The Celtic League had been renamed the Pro12 after the addition of two Italian teams, and Ulster finished sixth. Brian McLaughlin was replaced as head coach by Mark Anscombe.[57] Flanker Chris Henry was Player of the Year.[58]

New signings for the 2012–13 season included back row forward Nick Williams from the now defunct Aironi,[59] wing Tommy Bowe, returning from his four-year stay at the Ospreys,[60] back row forward Roger Wilson, returning from Northampton Saints,[61] and Irish-qualified South African hooker Rob Herring, initially on a six-month trial.[62] Out-half Ian Humphreys left for London Irish.[63] Centre Nevin Spence died in an accident at the family farm.[64] Ulster started the season with 13 consecutive wins in all competitions, the longest unbeaten run in their history.[65] They finished top of their group in the Heineken Cup, qualifying for the quarter-finals, where they lost to Northampton Saints. They finished top of the table in the Pro12, earning a home semi-final, in which they defeated Scarlets 27–16 in the last match before the old grandstand was demolished. The redevelopment of Ravenhill meant the final against Leinster had to be played at the RDS Arena in Dublin. Leinster won 24–18. Lock Alan O'Connor made his debut from the academy this season.[66] Wing Andrew Trimble was Player of the Year.[67]

The 2013–14 season proved trophyless again. For the first time, Ulster won all their Heineken Cup group games, with away victories against Montpellier and Leicester Tigers being the highlight. They were knocked out at the quarterfinal stage with a 17–15 home defeat to Saracens. The Pro12 season was racked with inconsistency and Ulster finished the league season in fourth place. This set up an away semi-final with Leinster, and for the fourth time in four seasons the season was ended by their old foes with a 13–9 defeat. Centre Stuart McCloskey[68] and prop Andrew Warwick made their debuts from the academy.[69] Andrew Trimble was Player of the Year for the second year running.[70] The season ended with the retirements of captain Johann Muller, centre Paddy Wallace, and flanker Stephen Ferris. Director of Rugby David Humphreys also left the province to take up a similar position at Gloucester Rugby. Following Humphreys' departure, Mark Anscombe was sacked by the province and was replaced by Ireland defence coach Les Kiss on an interim basis.[71]

2014–17 – the Les Kiss years

[edit]
Ulster v Glasgow match, October 2014

The 2014–15 season was Ulster's first under director of rugby Les Kiss[72] and head coach Neil Doak.[73] The redeveloped Ravenhill, renamed the Kingspan Stadium, now had a capacity of 18,196.[74] Rory Best was named captain after the retirement of Johann Muller.[75] New signings included out-half Ian Humphreys, returning from London Irish,[76] lock Franco van der Merwe from the Lions,[77] outside back Louis Ludik from Agen, and flanker Sean Reidy from Counties Manukau.[76] Ulster were knocked out of the new European Champions Cup at the group stage. They finished fourth in the Pro12 but narrowly lost in the playoff semifinal to eventual champions Glasgow Warriors. Prop Declan Fitzpatrick retired at the end of the season.[78] Wing Craig Gilroy was named Player of the Year.[79]

In 2015–16, Ulster were knocked out of the Champions Cup at the group stage despite a memorable back to back win over Toulouse. They finished fourth in the Pro12 but reached the semi-finals, losing to Leinster. Wing Jacob Stockdale made his debut from the academy.[80] Centre Stuart McCloskey was Player of the Year.[81]

Before the 2016–17 season, Nick Williams left for Cardiff Blues[82] and Dan Tuohy for Bristol Bears,[83] and Ian Humphreys retired.[84] Ulster signed back row forward Marcell Coetzee,[85] fullback Charles Piutau[86] and lock Kieran Treadwell.[87] Academy flanker Nick Timoney made his debut.[88] Ulster finished the season bottom of their pool in the Heineken Cup, and fifth in the Pro12. Charles Piutau was Player of the Year.[89]

2017–18 - the "basket case" season

[edit]

For the 2017–18 season, the Pro12 became the Pro14 with the addition of two South African teams. Head coach Neil Doak's contract was not renewed and he was replaced by Jono Gibbes.[90] Assistant coach Allen Clarke also left, replaced by Dwayne Peel.[91] All-time appearance holder Roger Wilson retired, and scrum-half Ruan Pienaar was blocked by the IRFU from extending his contract.[92] John Cooney was signed from Connacht to replace him.[93]

Before the season started, out-half Paddy Jackson and centre Stuart Olding were charged with rape and suspended from playing pending trial.[94] Both would be acquitted, but have their contracts revoked.[95] Australian out-half Christian Lealiifano was signed on loan.[96] Prop Tom O'Toole made his debut from the academy.[97] After a poor run of form over the Christmas period, Les Kiss resigned as Director of Rugby,[98] and Gibbes cut his contract short, leaving at the end of the season.[99] Ulster finished third in their Champions Cup pool, and fourth in Conference B of the Pro14, failing to qualify for the playoffs and needing to win a playoff to qualify for the next season's Champions Cup.[100] Former Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll described the province as "a bit of a basket case", facing "Administration issues, senior players retiring, the well documented court case, now no number 10 to build the team around, no coach next year, struggling for Champions Cup rugby next season."[101] Scrum-half John Cooney was named Player of the Year.[102]

2018–24: the Dan McFarland years

[edit]

For the 2018–19 season Dan McFarland was brought in as the new head coach.[103] Jared Payne, Tommy Bowe, Andrew Trimble and Chris Henry all retired, and Charles Piutau left for Bristol Bears.[104] Out-half Billy Burns was signed from Gloucester,[105] prop Marty Moore from Wasps,[106] flanker Jordi Murphy from Leinster,[107] and utility back Will Addison from Sale Sharks.[108] Prop Eric O'Sullivan, wing Robert Baloucoune, centre James Hume, fullback Michael Lowry and flanker Marcus Rea all made their debuts from the academy. Ulster finished the season as quarter-finalists in the Champions Cup, and semi-finalists in the Pro14, losing to Glasgow Warriors.[109] Rory Best[110] and Darren Cave retired at the end of the season.[111] Centre Stuart McCloskey was Player of the Year for the second time.[112]

Lock Iain Henderson was named captain for the 2019–20 season.[113] Ulster were again quarter-finalists in the Champions Cup, going out to Toulouse,[114] and reached the final of the Pro14, losing to Leinster.[115] Centre Stewart Moore and wing Ethan McIlroy[116] made their debuts from the academy, and scrum-half John Cooney was Player of the Year for the second time.[117]

The 2020–21 season was shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, and games were played behind closed doors. Ulster finished second in Conference A of the Pro14, but failed to make the knockout stages of the Champions Cup and were entered into the Challenge Cup. They progressed to the semi-finals, where they were beaten by Leicester Tigers. The season's final competition was the Pro14 Rainbow Cup, pitting the Pro14's European teams against the four South African teams who were leaving Super Rugby. Ulster's form in this competition was poor, and they finished tenth in the European pool. Marcell Coetzee cut short his contract and left for the Bulls before the end of the season.[118] Academy players Cormac Izuchukwu, Nathan Doak, David McCann, Callum Reid and Aaron Sexton all made their senior debuts this season.[119] Lock Alan O'Connor was Player of the Year.[120]

In 2021–22 the Pro14 became the United Rugby Championship, with the addition of four new South African teams. Ulster made the semi-finals, where they narrowly lost to the Stormers in Cape Town. In the Champions Cup, they made the knockout stage, but went out in a two-legged round of sixteen playoff against Toulouse by an aggregate score of 50–49. Centre James Hume was Player of the Year.[121]

New signings for the 2022-23 season included prop Jeffery Toomaga-Allen.[122] Lock Harry Sheridan[123] and centre Jude Postlethwaite[124] made their senior debuts. Despite a poor run of results in mid-season,[125] Ulster made the knockout stage of the Champions Cup, going out in the round of 16 to Leinster.[126] They became the first European team in the URC to win all four league games against South African opposition, and secured a home quarter-final with a home win over the Bulls in March,[127] which they lost to Connacht.[128] Hooker Tom Stewart was named Player of the Year after scoring 16 tries in the URC, a league record, and 17 tries in all competitions, an Ulster record.[129]

New signings for the 2023–24 season included prop Steven Kitshoff and flanker Dave Ewers. After a difficult first half of the season, McFarland left his position, to be replaced by assistant coach Dan Soper until after the Six Nations Under 20s Championship, after which Ireland under-20 coach Richie Murphy would take over until the end of the season.[130] Chief Executive Jonny Petrie left not long after, replaced on an interim basis by Hugh McCaughey.[131] Murphy signed a two-year contract in May.[132] Ulster finished sixth in the URC, going out in the quarter-finals to Leinster, and went out of the Champions Cup at the pool stage, dropping into the Challenge Cup where they made the quarter-finals. Flanker David McCann was Player of the Season.[133] Prop Scott Wilson made his debut from the academy.

2024 to present

[edit]

Before the 2024–25 season, Richie Murphy's first full season in charge, there were significant changes. Out-half Billy Burns left for Munster;[134] prop Steven Kitshoff returned to the Stormers,[135] where he was joined by flanker Dave Ewers;[136] utility back Will Addison signed for Sale Sharks;[137] and centre Luke Marshall retired.[138] New signings included wing Werner Kok from the Sharks[139] and Irish-qualified out-half Aidan Morgan from the Hurricanes.[140] Ireland Sevens player of the year Zac Ward, son of former Ulster captain Andy Ward, joined Ulster on a trial basis.[141] Jimmy Duffy replaced Roddy Grant as forwards coach,[142] Sam Dodge joined as head of athletic performance,[143] and skills coach Craig Newby left for Ealing Trailfinders.[144] Ulster qualified for the round of 16 in the Champions Cup, going out to Bordeaux, and finished 14th in the URC, failing to qualify for the playoffs or for next season's Champions Cup, being entered into the EPCR Challenge Cup. Nick Timoney was player of the year.[145][146]

There were further changes for the 2025–26 season. Following the end of Kingspan's sponsorship deal, Ulster's new shirt sponsor was SAM Mouldings,[147] and Ravenhill was renamed the Affidea Stadium.[148] Willie Faloon replaced Jonny Bell as defence coach, Mark Sexton was appointed backs and attack coach, and Dan Soper moved to a new player development role.[149] Bryn Cunningham resigned as general manager, and was replaced by Rory Best.[150] Scrum-half John Cooney left for Brive,[151] lock Kieran Treadwell for Harlequins,[152] and prop Andrew Warwick and lock Alan O'Connor, among others, were released.[153] South African number eight Juarno Augustus joined from Northampton Saints,[154] and Australian international prop Angus Bell was signed on sabbatical from the Waratahs, to join the province in December.[155] Ulster concluded the 25/26 season finishing 9th in the URC, missing out on the playoffs and qualification for the European Rugby Champions Cup. They did however reach the 2025–26 European Challenge Cup final, losing to a dominant Montpellier who ran out 59–26 winners in Bilbao.[156] Stuart McCloskey was Ulster's player of the year,[157] and Rugby Players Ireland's men's player of the year.[158] Back row Bryn Ward made his debut from the academy,[159] received the Rugby Players Ireland young player of the year award,[158] and made his debut for Ireland in July.[160]

Before the 2026-27 season, forwards coach Jimmy Duffy left for Munster, and was replaced by New Zealander Clarke Dermody, formerly of the Highlanders.[161] Angus Bell returned to the Waratahs at the end of his sabbatical, and Werner Kok joined Newcastle Red Bulls.[162] New signings included lock Eli Snyman,[163] props Eduardo Bello[164] and Keynan Knox,[165] out-half Jamie Benson[166] and scrum-half Matthew Devine.[167]

Previous season summaries

[edit]
Domestic League European Cup Domestic / 'A' Cup
Season Competition Final Position (Pool) Points Play-offs Competition Performance Competition Performance
1995–96 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 2nd
1996–97 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 3rd
1997–98 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 3rd
1998–99 No competition Heineken Cup Champions Interprovincial Championship 2nd
1999–00 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 2nd
2000–01 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 2nd
2001–02 Celtic League 2nd (A) 13 Semi-final Heineken Cup 2nd in pool Interprovincial Championship 2nd
2002–03 Celtic League 3rd (A) 22 Semi-final Heineken Cup 3rd in pool No competition
2003–04 Celtic League 2nd 72 N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in pool Celtic Cup Champions
2004–05 Celtic League 8th 43 N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in pool Celtic Cup Quarter-final
2005–06 Celtic League Champions 75 N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in pool No competition
2006–07 Magners League 5th 55 N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in pool No competition
2007–08 Magners League 9th 29 N/A Heineken Cup 4th in pool No competition
2008–09 Magners League 8th 36 N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in pool No competition
2009–10 Magners League 8th 36 Did not qualify Heineken Cup 2nd in pool British and Irish Cup Semi-final
2010–11 Magners League 3rd 67 Semi-final Heineken Cup Quarter-final British and Irish Cup 5th in pool
2011–12 RaboDirect PRO12 6th 56 Did not qualify Heineken Cup Runner-up British and Irish Cup Quarter-final
2012–13 RaboDirect PRO12 1st 81 Runner-up Heineken Cup Quarter-final British and Irish Cup 2nd in pool
2013–14 RaboDirect PRO12 4th 70 Semi-final Heineken Cup Quarter-final British and Irish Cup 2nd in pool
2014–15 Guinness PRO12 4th 69 Semi-final Champions Cup 3rd in pool British and Irish Cup 3rd in pool
2015–16 Guinness PRO12 4th 69 Semi-final Champions Cup 2nd in pool British and Irish Cup 3rd in pool
2016–17 Guinness PRO12 5th 68 Did not qualify Champions Cup 4th in pool British and Irish Cup Quarter-final
2017–18 Guinness PRO14 4th (B) 62 Did not qualify Champions Cup 3rd in pool British and Irish Cup Quarter-final
2018–19 Guinness PRO14 2nd (B) 63 Semi-final Champions Cup Quarter-final Celtic Cup 3rd in pool
2019–20 Guinness PRO14 2nd (A) 44 Runner-up Champions Cup Quarter-final Celtic Cup Runner-up
2020–21 Guinness PRO14 2nd (A) 64 Did not qualify Challenge Cup* Semi-final Rainbow Cup 10th in pool
2021–22 United Rugby Championship 3rd 59 Semi-final Champions Cup Round of 16 URC Shield 2nd in pool
2022–23 United Rugby Championship 2nd 68 Quarter-final Champions Cup Round of 16 URC Shield 2nd in pool
2023–24 United Rugby Championship 6th 54 Quarter-final Challenge Cup* Quarter-final URC Shield 2nd in pool
2024–25 United Rugby Championship 14th 38 Did not qualify Champions Cup Round of 16 URC Shield 3rd in pool

Gold background denotes champions
Silver background denotes runner-up

* After dropping into the competition from the Champions Cup/Heineken Cup

Current standings

[edit]

United Rugby Championship

[edit]

Pos Team
 Pld W D L PF PA PD TF TA TB LB Pts Qualification
1 Edinburgh 4 4 0 0 111 64 +47 15 8 3 0 19 Qualification for the Champions Cup and knockout stage
2 Glasgow Warriors 4 3 1 0 119 92 +27 18 12 4 0 18
3 Bulls 4 3 0 1 160 90 +70 23 11 3 1 16
4 Stormers 4 3 0 1 133 94 +39 19 13 3 1 16
5 Sharks 4 3 0 1 125 104 +21 18 16 3 0 15
6 Leinster 4 2 0 2 99 76 +23 16 10 3 2 13
7 Ospreys 4 2 0 2 112 121 −9 18 17 3 0 11
8 Connacht 4 2 0 2 104 111 −7 17 17 2 0 10
9 Munster 4 1 1 2 90 98 −8 12 15 2 2 10 Qualification for the Challenge Cup
10 Cardiff 4 2 0 2 87 107 −20 13 17 1 0 9
11 Lions 4 2 0 2 87 133 −46 12 21 1 0 9
12 Ulster 4 0 2 2 114 127 −13 17 17 4 1 9
13 Dragons 4 1 1 2 102 114 −12 15 18 2 1 9
14 Scarlets 4 1 0 3 108 137 −29 16 21 3 1 8
15 Benetton 4 0 1 3 84 92 −8 12 15 1 3 6
16 Zebre 4 0 0 4 79 164 −85 12 25 2 0 2
Updated to match(es) played on 23 October 2026. Source: UnitedRugby.com
Rules for classification: Tiebreakers for teams tied on points: 1) Number of matches won 2) The difference between points for and points against 3) The number of tries scored 4) The most points scored 5) The difference between tries for and tries against 6) The fewest red cards received 7) The fewest yellow cards received.[168]

EPCR Challenge Cup

[edit]

Pool 1

EPCR Challenge Cup Pool 1
Pos Team
 Pld W D L PF PA PD TF TA TB LB Pts Qualification
1 Ireland Ulster 1 1 0 0 40 21 +19 6 3 1 0 5 Home round of 16
2 Wales Dragons 1 1 0 0 29 14 +15 4 2 0 0 4
3 France Bayonne 1 1 0 0 29 27 +2 5 3 0 0 4
4 South Africa Cheetahs 1 0 0 1 27 29 −2 3 5 0 1 1 Away round of 16
5 France Perpignan 1 0 0 1 14 29 −15 2 4 0 0 0
6 Italy Zebre Parma 1 0 0 1 21 40 −19 3 6 0 0 0
First match(es) will be played: 16 October 2026. Source: EPCR[169]
Rules for classification: Tiebreakers for teams tied on points: 1) Number of matches won; 2) Difference between points for and against; 3) Total number of points for; 4) Aggregate number of points scored in matches between tied teams; 5) Number of matches won excluding the first match, then the second and so on until the tie is settled.

Honours

[edit]

Crest

[edit]
The flag of the province of Ulster

The current crest was introduced in 2003. The new, stylised crest is made specific to Ulster Rugby as it incorporates the red hand from the provincial flag of Ulster with two rugby balls.[171] The Ulster Rugby crest is on all official club merchandise including replica jerseys.

Stadium

[edit]
Ravenhill Stadium

The Ravenhill Stadium, known for sponsorship reasons as the Affidea Stadium from 2025,[148] and the Kingspan Stadium from 2014 to 2025, opened in 1923.[172] It has hosted two Rugby World Cup matches, several Ireland national team matches, the 2015 Pro12 Grand Final and many 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup matches, including the final.

The Premium Stand opened in 2009. In 2011, the Northern Ireland Executive announced that it had granted £138m for various stadium redevelopment projects throughout Northern Ireland. Ulster Rugby received £14.5m, which was used to redevelop Ravenhill and expand its capacity from 12,000 to 18,000.[173] The rest of the redevelopment took place from 2012 to 2014. In 2012, Ulster Rugby confirmed that three new stands would be built at Ravenhill, with work commencing in late 2012. Two new stands at the Memorial and Aquinas ends of the stadium were completed while the main stand was demolished and rebuilt. The major refurbishment was completed in April 2014.[174] After the rest of the redevelopment was completed, the stadium was renamed the Kingspan Stadium. in 2025, the stadium took on a new naming sponsor, becoming the Affidea Stadium.[148]

Home attendance

[edit]
Domestic League European Cup Total
League Fixtures Average Attendance Highest Lowest League Fixtures Average Attendance Highest Lowest Total Attendance Average Attendance
– – – – – 1995–96 Heineken Cup 1 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500 2,500
– – – – – 1996–97 Heineken Cup 2 5,750 8,000 3,500 11,500 5,750
– – – – – 1997–98 Heineken Cup 3 2,617 3,250 2,100 7,850 2,617
– – – – – 1998–99 Heineken Cup 5 11,000 20,000 4,500 55,000 11,000
– – – – – 1999–00 Heineken Cup 3 8,667 12,000 6,000 26,000 8,667
– – – – – 2000–01 Heineken Cup 3 12,500 13,500 12,000 37,500 12,500
2001–02 Celtic League 4 8,500 12,000 6,000 2001–02 Heineken Cup 3 11,833 13,000 10,000 69,500 9,929
2002–03 Celtic League 4 8,375 10,500 6,000 2002–03 Heineken Cup 3 11,717 12,500 11,000 68,650 9,807
2003–04 Celtic League 12• 6,863 12,000 5,041 2003–04 Heineken Cup 3 11,489 12,300 10,243 116,819 7,788
2004–05 Celtic League 10 6,693 8,145 5,638 2004–05 Heineken Cup 3 9,452 11,435 7,320 95,283 7,330
2005–06 Celtic League 10 9,181 12,300 6,487 2005–06 Heineken Cup 3 12,284 12,300 12,252 128,665 9,897
2006–07 Celtic League 10 10,207 12,900 7,429 2006–07 Heineken Cup 3 12,599 12,772 12,278 139,862 10,759
2007–08 Celtic League 9 9,661 13,132 6,592 2007–08 Heineken Cup 3 10,335 13,000 8,340 117,956 9,830
2008–09 Celtic League 9 9,085 13,500 7,368 2008–09 Heineken Cup 3 9,329 10,397 8,729 109,752 9,146
2009–10 Celtic League 9 8,863 11,800 7,334 2009–10 Heineken Cup 3 10,509 11,000 8,262 109,947 9,162
2010–11 Celtic League 11 8,476 11,426 6,651 2010–11 Heineken Cup 3 8,863 10,566 7,777 119,829 8,559
2011–12 Pro12 11 8,258 11,379 6,296 2011–12 Heineken Cup 3 9,593 11,900 7,494 119,620 8,544
2012–13 Pro12 12 10,373 11,078 8,108 2012–13 Heineken Cup 3 11,123 11,451 10,940 157,840 10,523
2013–14 Pro12 11 13,348 16,950 10,693 2013–14 Heineken Cup 4 14,464 16,853 12,977 204,678 13,645
2014–15 Pro12 11 16,037 17,139 13,501 2014–15 European Rugby Champions Cup 3 16,179 16,931 15,659 224,946 16,068
2015–16 Pro12 11 15,310 17,332 12,640 2015–16 European Rugby Champions Cup 3 16,111 17,108 15,108 216,740 15,481
2016–17 Pro12 11 15,961 17,676 13,663 2016–17 European Rugby Champions Cup 3 16,028 16,843 14,924 223,658 15,976
2017–18 Pro14 12* 14,026 17,631 7,014 2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup 3 15,314 15,646 15,004 214,247 14,283
2018–19 Pro14 11 13,835 17,358 11,882 2018–19 European Rugby Champions Cup 3 14,039 16,842 12,124 194,300 13,879
2019–20 Pro14 7‡ 13,818 17,483 10,975 2019–20 European Rugby Champions Cup 3 17,024 17,923 15,466 147,796 14,780
2020–21 Pro14
Pro14 Rainbow Cup		 0‡ – – – 2020–21 European Rugby Champions Cup 0‡ – – – – –
2021–22 United Rugby Championship 10 11,696 16,274 9,542 2021–22 European Rugby Champions Cup 3 14,969 18,196 12,000 161,869 12,452
2022–23 United Rugby Championship 10 13,413 16,741 10,858 2022–23 European Rugby Champions Cup 1 18,196 18,196 18,196 152,330 13,848
2023–24 United Rugby Championship 8† 13,679 18,196 10,181 2023–24 European Rugby Champions Cup 2 14,437 16,592 12,282 138,305 13,831
2024–25 United Rugby Championship 9 13,176 16,491 11,533 2024–25 European Rugby Champions Cup 2 12,335 13,093 11,576 143,251 13,023
2025–26 United Rugby Championship 9 12,606 18,196 9,563 2025–26 EPCR Challenge Cup 5 9,696 11,900 7,169 161,930 11,566
 •Match figures inclusive of both Celtic League and Celtic Cup fixtures.
 *Match figures inclusive of both Pro14 League fixtures and a European Champions Cup playoff fixture.
 ‡Match figures include fixtures in which COVID-19 restrictions limited attendance, but exclude fixtures in which no spectators were allowed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
 †Only matches in which there was a reported attendance are included.

Up to date as of the 2024–25 season.

Key
 Record high
 Record low
*Affected by the COVID-19 pandemic

Current squads

[edit]

Ulster Men coaches and management

[edit]
Position Name Nationality
Chief executive officer Hugh McCaughey Ireland
General manager Rory Best Ireland
Head coach Richie Murphy Ireland
Forwards coach Clarke Dermody New Zealand
Backs coach Mark Sexton Ireland
Defence and contact skills coach Willie Faloon Ireland
Development and transition coach Dan Soper New Zealand
Coach development advisor Joe Schmidt New Zealand
Head of athletic performance Matt Ireton England
Academy manager Gavin Hogg Ireland
Elite performance development officer Niall Annett Ireland
Elite performance development officer Jonathon Graham Ireland

Ulster Men squad

[edit]
2026–27 Ulster squad

Props

Hookers

Locks

Back row

Scrum-halves

Fly-halves

Centres

Wings

Fullbacks

(c) denotes the team captain.
Bold denotes internationally capped players.
* denotes players qualified to play for Ireland on residency or dual nationality.
Taking into account signings and departures ahead of 2026–27 season as listed on List of 2026–27 United Rugby Championship transfers.

Ulster Men academy squad

[edit]
2026–27 Ulster Men Academy squad (19 members with Year stages)

Props

Hookers

  • Ireland Conor Magee (2)

Locks

  • Ireland Mahon Ronan (2)
  • Australia Paddy Woods * (1)

Back row

Scrum-halves

  • Ireland Clark Logan (3)
  • Ireland Connor McVicker (1)

Fly-halves

  • Ireland Daniel Green (2)
  • Ireland Charlie O'Connor (1)

Centres

Wings

  • England Jed Findlay * (1)
  • Ireland Josh Gibson (2)
(c) denotes the team captain.
Bold denotes internationally capped players.
* denotes players qualified to play for Ireland on residency or dual nationality.
Taking into account signings and departures ahead of 2026–27 season as listed on List of 2026–27 United Rugby Championship transfers.

Ulster Women coaches and management

[edit]
Position Name Nationality
Head coach Murray Houston Scotland
Lineout coach Reuben Crothers Ireland
Scrum and defence coach Griffin Phillipson Ireland
Backs coach Grace Davitt Ireland
Skills coach James Hume Ireland
Athletic development coach Kevin Gallagher Ireland
Team manager Marianne Breen Ireland
Physio Martin Dunlop Ireland

Ulster Women squad

[edit]
Ulster Senior Women's Squad[175] 35 Players

Props

  • Ireland Sophie Barrett
  • Ireland Bronach Cassidy
  • Ireland Ava Fannin
  • Ireland Sadhbh McGrath
  • Ireland Sarah Roberts
  • Ireland Grace Simati

Hookers

  • Ireland Maebh Clenaghan
  • Ireland India Daley (c)
  • Ireland Emily Whittle

Locks

  • Ireland Rebecca Beacom
  • Ireland Olivia McKinley
  • Ireland Ellen Patterson
  • Ireland Fiona Tuite

Back row

  • Ireland Claire Boles (vc)
  • Ireland Jemima Johnson
  • Ireland Katie Hetherington
  • Ireland Christy Hill
  • Ireland Moya Hill
  • Ireland Cara McClean
  • Ireland Stacey Sloan
  • Ireland Ruby Starrett

Scrum-halves

  • Ireland Georgia Boyce
  • Ireland Amy McConkey
  • Ireland Rachael McIlroy
  • Ireland Sophie Meeke

Out-halves

  • Ireland Ella Durkan
  • Ireland Abby Moyles (vc)

Centres

  • Ireland Caitlin Crowe
  • Ireland Leah Irwin
  • Ireland Lucy Thompson

Wings

  • Ireland Ciara Fitzsimons
  • Ireland Katie Gilmour
  • Ireland Rebecca Mann

Utility backs

  • Ireland Niamh Marley
  • Ireland Siobhan Sheerin
(c) denotes the team captain, (vc) denotes the team vice-captain. Bold denotes internationally capped players.

Results versus national teams

[edit]
Scores and results list Ulster's points tally first.
Date Opponent Location Result Score Notes
13 December 1902 Canada Canada Belfast Lost 8–11 Match Report[176]
December 1912 South Africa South Africa Belfast Lost 0–19 Match Report
5 November 1924 New Zealand New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 6–28 Tour Article
December 1931 South Africa South Africa Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 3–30 Match Report
30 November 1935 New Zealand New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Draw 3–3 Match Report
29 November 1947 Australia Australia Ravenhill, Belfast lost 10–14 Match report[177]
1 December 1951 South Africa South Africa Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 5–27 Match Report
2 January 1954 New Zealand New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Draw 5–5 Match Report
30 November 1957 Australia Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 0–9 Match Report
28 January 1961 South Africa South Africa Belfast Lost 6–19 Match Report
25 January 1964 New Zealand New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 5–24 Match Report
29 November 1969 South Africa South Africa Ravenhill, Belfast Draw 0–0* Tour Article
18 November 1972 New Zealand New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 6–19 Match Report
3 November 1973 Argentina Argentina XV Ravenhill, Belfast Won 23–13 Match Report
16 November 1974 New Zealand New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 15–30 Match Report
15 November 1975 Australia Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 25–30 Match Report
7 November 1978 New Zealand New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 7–23 Match Report
11 October 1980 Romania Romania Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 13–15 Match Report
14 November 1981 Australia Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 6–12 Tour article
14 November 1984 Australia Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Won 15–13 Match Report
23 October 1985 Fiji Fiji Ravenhill, Belfast Won 23–9 Match Report
13 September 1986 Canada Canada Ravenhill, Belfast Won 32–13 Match Report[178]
22 August 1987 Zimbabwe Zimbabwe Bulawayo Won 36–12 Match Report[179]
29 August 1987 Zimbabwe Zimbabwe Harare Lost 17–18 Match report[180]
2 November 1988 Samoa Western Samoa Ravenhill, Belfast Won 47–15 Match Report
21 November 1989 New Zealand New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 3–21 Match Report
4 September 1990 Spain Spain Ravenhill, Belfast Won 28–13 Match Report[181]
24 October 1992 Australia Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 11–35 Match Report
16 November 1996 Australia Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost 26–39 Match Report
10 August 1998 Morocco Morocco Ravenhill, Belfast Won 50–5 Match Report
10 November 2008 Portugal Portugal Ravenhill, Belfast Won 62–6 Match Report
9 November 2018 Uruguay Uruguay Ravenhill, Belfast Won 21–5 Match Report
 *Match was cancelled by the Northern Irish government due to concerns that law and order could not be maintained with anti-apartheid demonstrations expected to take place.[182]

Records against URC and European Cup opponents

[edit]
Against Played Won Drawn Lost % Won
Italy Aironi8800100.00%
France ASM Clermont Auvergne950455.56%
England Bath760185.71%
Italy Benetton†31253380.65%
France Biarritz620433.33%
France Bordeaux500500.00%
Scotland Border Reivers8800100.00%
France Bourgoin410325.00%
Wales Bridgend1100100.00%
South Africa Bulls630344%
France CA Brive10010.00%
Wales Caerphilly1100100.00%
Scotland Caledonia Reds1100100.00%
Wales Cardiff Rugby402311657.5%
Wales Cardiff RFC530260%
France Castres2200100.00%
Wales Celtic Warriors2200100.00%
South Africa Cheetahs421150%
Ireland Connacht*483411370.83%
Wales Dragons412821168.29%
Wales Ebbw Vale RFC4400100.00%
Scotland Edinburgh483211566.67%
England Exeter Chiefs4301100%
Scotland Glasgow Warriors472422151.06%
England Gloucester510420%
England Harlequins960366.67%
France La Rochelle520340%
England Leicester Tigers1270558.33%
Ireland Leinster*581424224.14%
South Africa Lions430175%
Wales Llanelli RFC410325%
England London Irish210150.00%
France Montpellier4301{{#expre:3/4*100 round2}}%
Ireland Munster*512232643.14%
Wales Neath RFC320166.67%
England Northampton Saints850362.5%
Wales Ospreys442302152.27%
France Oyonnax2200100.00%
Wales Pontypridd1100100.00%
France Racing 92430175.00%
England Saracens810712.5%
England Sale Sharks210150%
Wales Scarlets†482731856.25%
South Africa Sharks630350%
France Stade Français1250650%
South Africa Stormers621333.33%
South Africa Southern Kings5500100.00%
Wales Swansea RFC420250.00%
France Toulon20020.00%
France Toulouse1561840%
France US Colomiers1100100%
England Wasps820625%
Italy Zebre21180385.71%
Total6883882327756.4%
 *Matches played as part of the Irish Interprovincial Rugby Championship, separate from Celtic League fixtures, are not included in this table.
 †Results do not include a match between the Benetton and Ulster declared a 0–0 draw due to the COVID-19 pandemic, nor do they include the cancelled Ulster vs Scarlets Rainbow Cup fixture in which Scarlets
were awarded victory due to positive Covid tests in the Ulster squad.[183][184]

Updated as of 24 October 2026.

Records against Irish Provinces (1946–present)

[edit]
Against Played Won Drawn Lost % Won
Connacht Connacht1078042374.77%
Leinster Leinster1163867232.76%
Munster Munster11156114450.45%
Total3341742113952.1%

Correct as of 10 October 2026.

Head coaches (professional era)

[edit]
As of 24 October 2026[note 1][note 2][185]
Coach Season(s) GP* W D L Win % Loss % Championships / Notes
Ireland Brian Bloomfield†[186][187] 1995/96 7 4 0 3 57.1% 42.9%
England Tony Russ[188][189] 1996/97 7 2 0 5 28.6% 71.4%
Ireland Dave Haslett[190] 1997/98 9 2 0 7 22.2% 77.8%
Ireland Harry Williams[191] 1998/99 – 2000/01 41 18 2 21 43.9% 51.2% European Cup (1998–99)
South Africa Alan Solomons[192] 2001/02 – 2003/04 63 41 2 20 65.1% 31.7% 2003-04 Celtic Cup
Ireland Mark McCall[193] 2004/05 – 2007/08 (mid-season) 91 46 3 42 50.5% 46.2% 2005-06 Celtic League
Wales Steve Williams[194] 2007/08 (mid-season) 8 2 0 6 25% 75% Interim
Australia Matt Williams[195] 2007/08 (mid-season) – 2008/09 37 15 1 21 40.5% 56.8%
Ireland Brian McLaughlin[196] 2009/10 – 2011/12 93 54 2 37 58.1% 39.8%
New Zealand Mark Anscombe[197] 2012/13 – 2013/14 69 47 5 17 68.1% 24.6%
Australia Les Kiss[198] 2014/15 5 3 1 1 60% 20% Interim
Ireland Neil Doak[199] 2014/15 (mid-season) – 2016/17 85 48 2 35 56.5% 41.2%
New Zealand Jono Gibbes[200] 2017/18 30 17 2 11 56.7% 36.7%
England Dan McFarland[130] 2018/19 – 2023/24 (mid-season) 150 92 3 55 61.3% 36.7%
New Zealand Dan Soper[201] 2023/24 (mid-season) 1 1 0 0 100% 0% Interim
Ireland Richie Murphy 2023/24 (mid-season) – 62 28 3 31 45.2% 50%
Total 1995 – 753 418 25 310 55.5% 41.2%
 *Games played are inclusive of matches played against touring international sides and friendlies against club opposition.
†Bloomfield was Ulster coach from 1993 to 1995. However, only matches from the professional era (1995/96 season) are included in this table.

Personnel honours and records

[edit]

Bold indicates active player

All Competitions

[edit]

(correct as of 24 October 2026)[202][203]

European Rugby Champions Cup

[edit]

Including Heineken Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup

(correct as of 17 October 2026)[204]

United Rugby Championship

[edit]

Including Celtic League, Celtic Cup, Pro12, Pro14 and Pro14 Rainbow Cup

(correct as of 24 October 2026)[202][203]

Team of the Year

CompetitionIrish playersOverseas players
2006–07[205]—Australia Justin Harrison
2007–08[206]Tommy Bowe—
2008–09[207]——
2009–10[208]——
2010–11[209]—South Africa Ruan Pienaar
2011–12[210]——
2012–13[211]Luke MarshallNew Zealand Nick Williams
2013–14[212]Andrew TrimbleSouth Africa Johann Muller
2014–15[213]Craig Gilroy, Rory BestSouth Africa Franco van der Merwe
2015–16[214]Craig Gilroy (2)—
2016–17[215]—South Africa Ruan Pienaar (2), New Zealand Charles Piutau
2017–18[216]John Cooney—
2018–19[217]John Cooney (2), Stuart McCloskey—
2019–20[218]John Cooney (3), Stuart McCloskey (2)—
2020–21[219]John Cooney (4), Michael Lowry, Eric O'SullivanSouth Africa Marcell Coetzee
2021–22[220]James Hume, Nick Timoney—
2022–23[221]——
2023–24[222]John Cooney (5)—

Player of the Year

CompetitionIrish playersOverseas players
2010–11[223]—South Africa Ruan Pienaar
2012–13[224]—New Zealand Nick Williams
2016–17[215]—New Zealand Charles Piutau
2020–21[225]—South Africa Marcell Coetzee

Individual Awards

Category Player Season Total
Top Try Scorer Tommy Bowe (Joint) 2005–06 10
Craig Gilroy (Joint) 2015–16 10
Marcell Coetzee (Joint) 2020–21 9
Tom Stewart 2022–23 16
Top Point Scorer David Humphreys 2001–02 122
John Cooney 2017–18 175
John Cooney (2) (Joint) 2020–21 113
Young Player of the Year Luke Marshall 2012–13 N/A
Tom Stewart 2022–23 N/A
Try of the Season Andrew Trimble (Ulster vs Connacht) 2012–13 N/A
Craig Gilroy (Ulster vs Scarlets) 2014–15 N/A
Ruan Pienaar (Ulster vs Glasgow Warriors) 2016–17 N/A
Tackle Machine Alan O'Connor 2021–22 195, 97.5%

Team Awards

British & Irish Lions

[edit]

The following Ulster players, in addition to representing Ireland, have also represented the British & Irish Lions.[226]

  • Bold indicates player was tour captain for the year in question

Note: Phillip Matthews played for the Lions in their victory against France in Paris. The game formed part of the celebrations of the bi-centennial of the French Revolution, but did not count as a "formal" Lions international.

Ulster Rugby Awards

[edit]
Season Player of
the Year		 Personality
of the Year		 Supporters' Club
Player of the Year		 Young Player
of the Year		 Rugby Writers'
Player of the Year
1997–98[14] Andy Ward Andy Ward
1998–99[16] Simon Mason David Humphreys
1999–2000[227] Tony McWhirter David Humphreys (2)
2000–01[19] Tyrone Howe Gary Longwell Tyrone Howe
2001–02[21] David Humphreys Paddy Wallace David Humphreys
2002–03[23] Bryn Cunningham Allen Clarke Robbi Kempson
2003–04[228] Roger Wilson Alan Solomons Andy Ward
2004–05[28] Neil Best Tommy Bowe Kieran Campbell
2005–06[30] Andrew Trimble Justin Harrison Stephen Ferris
2006–07[32] Roger Wilson (2) David Humphreys (3) David Pollock
2007–08[35] Tommy Bowe Rory Best Niall O'Connor
2008–09[41] Rory Best Stephen Ferris Darren Cave Stephen Ferris
2009–10[45] Andrew Trimble (2) Chris Henry Chris Henry Jamie Smith Chris Henry
2010–11[52] Ruan Pienaar Johann Muller Johann Muller Nevin Spence
2011–12[58] Chris Henry Stephen Ferris (2) Pedrie Wannenburg Craig Gilroy
2012–13[67] Andrew Trimble (3) Nevin Spence Andrew Trimble Iain Henderson
2013–14[70] Andrew Trimble (4) Johann Muller Andrew Trimble (2) Paddy Jackson Andrew Trimble
2014–15[79] Craig Gilroy Rory Best (2) Darren Cave Stuart McCloskey Craig Gilroy
2015–16[81] Stuart McCloskey Nick Williams Paddy Jackson Kyle McCall Franco van der Merwe
2016–17[89] Charles Piutau Ruan Pienaar Ruan Pienaar Jacob Stockdale Sean Reidy
2017–18[102] John Cooney Paul Marshall John Cooney Nick Timoney John Cooney
2018–19[112] Stuart McCloskey (2) Rory Best (3) Stuart McCloskey Eric O'Sullivan Marcell Coetzee
2019–20[117] John Cooney (2) Marcell Coetzee Marcell Coetzee Tom O'Toole Marcell Coetzee (2)
2020–21[120] Alan O'Connor Iain Henderson John Cooney (2) James Hume Nick Timoney
2021–22[121] James Hume Ashleigh Orchard Michael Lowry Ethan McIlroy James Hume
2022–23[229] Tom Stewart Tom Stewart Stewart Moore Stuart McCloskey
2023–24[133] David McCann Luke Marshall John Cooney (3) Harry Sheridan David McCann
2024–25[230] Nick Timoney Alan O'Connor Nick Timoney James McNabney Jacob Stockdale
2025–26[157] Stuart McCloskey (3) John Andrew Stuart McCloskey (2) Jack Murphy Werner Kok

Club rugby in Ulster

[edit]

The IRFU Ulster Branch oversees a pyramid of club rugby competitions in Ulster.

Senior level

[edit]

As of the 2025/26 season, Ulster has twelve senior rugby clubs, which compete in the All-Ireland League, the Ulster Rugby Premiership, the Ulster Senior Cup and the Ulster Senior Shield. They are:

Ballynahinch are currently the highest ranked in the All-Ireland League, finishing fifth in Division 1A in 2023–24.[231] They are holders of the 2023-24 Ulster Rugby Premiership, having won it three seasons in a row.[232] Instonians are the holders of the 2023-24 Ulster Senior Cup.[233]

Ballyclare were promoted to senior level for the first time in 2023 after finishing top of the 2022-23 Ulster Rugby Championship and winning playoffs against Connacht junior champions Creggs and Leinster League champions Monkstown.[234][235]

Junior level

[edit]

The second tier includes the three divisions of the Ulster Rugby Championship, and the 2nd XV League. Clubs in the Championship Division 1, and some of the clubs in the Second XV league, also compete in the Ulster Junior Cup. Clubs in the Championship Division 2, and some of the clubs in the Second XV league, compete in the Ulster Junior Shield. Clubs in the Championship Division 3 also compete in the Gordon West Cup and Gordon West Plate. Clubs in all the tier 2 divisions also compete in the McCrea Cup and the Ulster Towns Cup.

The third tier contains the two divisions of the Ulster Provincial Premiership, the Crawford Cup and the Crawford Plate.

The fourth tier consists of three divisions of the Provincial Regional - North, East 1 and East 2. These clubs also compete in the Forster Cup and the Forster Plate.

The fifth tier consists of five divisions: Regional North, Regional South divisions 1 and 2, and Regional East divisions 1 and 2. Clubs at this level also compete in the McCambley Cup and the Butler Shield.[236]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ↑ Peter, Richard (1999). The Origins and Development of Football in Ireland. Belfast: Ulster Historical Foundation. p. 6. ISBN 0-901905-93-3.
  2. ↑ "History of the Irish Rugby Football Union". Irish Rugby. Retrieved 22 April 2018.
  3. 1 2 "Connacht Rugby". Galway Advertiser. 28 April 2016. Retrieved 22 April 2018.
  4. ↑ "Ray McLoughlin - Connacht Rugby Legend". Connacht Rugby Supporters. 25 March 2006. Retrieved 31 January 2018.
  5. ↑ Peter McMullan, "Ken Armstrong to coach Ulster XV", Belfast Telegraph, 17 June 1969
  6. ↑ John Redmond, "Armstrong Gives Up The Reins of Ulster Rugby", Irish Press, 24 December 1971
  7. ↑ "Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 442". Irish Rugby. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 7 January 2018.
  8. ↑ "Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 443". Irish Rugby. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 7 January 2018.
  9. ↑ "Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 444". Irish Rugby. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 7 January 2018.
  10. ↑ "How The Irish Provinces Moulded History With Modernity To Leave The Welsh Regions Trailing So Far Behind" Archived 5 October 2023 at the Wayback Machine, Dai Sport, 21 January 2019
  11. ↑ "European Rugby Cup : History". ERC. Archived from the original on 8 February 2007. Retrieved 21 March 2007.
  12. ↑ "Ireland confirm Euro entry", Belfast Telegraph, 22 August 1995
  13. ↑ Jim Stokes, "Ulster to face Cardiff?", Belfast Telegraph, 29 August 1995
  14. 1 2 Jim Stokes, "Handy Andy is tops", Belfast Telegraph, 21 May 1998
  15. ↑ "Rugby Union: European Cup final - Ulster take a red-carpet ride". The Independent. 31 January 1999. Retrieved 22 April 2018.
  16. 1 2 Jim Stokes, "Ulster toasts master Mason", Belfast Telegraph, 28 May 1999
  17. ↑ "Williams to quit as Ulster coach", BBC Sport, 31 August 2000
  18. ↑ Jim Stokes, "Humphreys is 'Mr Personality'", Belfast Telegraph, 19 May 2000
  19. 1 2 "Honours for Howe and Longwell", BBC Sport, 25 May 2001
  20. ↑ "Celtic League gets green light to kick off in August", Evening Herald, 31 May 2001
  21. 1 2 "Humphries doubles up", BBC Sport, 24 May 2002
  22. ↑ Statzone Archived 1 November 2023 at the Wayback Machine, Pro12 Rugby, retrieved 2 June 2022
  23. 1 2 Gavin Mairs, "Clarke lands Ulster rugby's personality of the year title", Belfast Telegraph, 16 May 2003
  24. ↑ [Jimmy Davidson, "Club Ulster is perfect route to success for Solomons", Belfast Telegraph, 9 May 2003
  25. ↑ "Ulster hold on for victory", BBC Sport, 20 December 2003
  26. ↑ "Alan Solomons Director of Rugby". Worcester Warriors. Archived from the original on 25 September 2021. Retrieved 24 September 2021.
  27. ↑ "McCall gets call to coach Ulster", The Irish Times, 23 March 2004
  28. 1 2 Gavin Mairs, "Bowe bags the top Ulster rugby gong", Belfast Telegraph, 13 May 2005
  29. ↑ "Humphreys drop snatches title for Ulster" Archived 5 June 2022 at the Wayback Machine, Pro12 Rugby, 26 May 2006
  30. 1 2 Gavin Mairs, "Justin given a timely boost", Belfast Telegraph, 19 May 2006
  31. ↑ Tom Glover, "Ulster 30 Toulouse 3: Humphreys master of the guillotine", The Independent, 22 October 2006
  32. 1 2 Gavin Mairs, "Rory heads for World Cup as Personality of the Year", Belfast Telegraph, 18 May 2007
  33. ↑ "Ulster coach quits". Sky Sports. 13 November 2007.
  34. ↑ Ciaran Donaghy, "Cave finds ray of light in shape of first start for Ulster", Belfast Telegraph, 6 October 2007
  35. 1 2 Richard Mulligan, "Humphreys steals the limelight while Monaghan boy Bowe bows out in style", News Letter, 16 May 2008
  36. ↑ "Bowe to join Ospreys", Irish Times, 25 January 2008
  37. ↑ "Double signing strengthens Saints squad". Archived from the original on 8 February 2016. Retrieved 27 January 2008.
  38. ↑ Richard Mulligan, "New Role in Ulster for Humphreys", News Letter, 5 June 2008
  39. ↑ "Ulster’s maverick out half: Ian Humphreys"[dead link], The Front Row Union, 6 May 2020
  40. 1 2 "Williams leaves Ulster". Sky Sports. 21 May 2009.
  41. 1 2 Richard Mulligan, "Ferris claims top accolade", News Letter, 15 May 2009
  42. ↑ Richard Mulligan, "New signings given an early opportunity", News Letter, 19 August 2009
  43. ↑ "Nevin Spence: Ulster rugby player", BBC News, 16 September 2012
  44. ↑ "Bath 10 Ulster 28"[dead link], The Front Row Union, 24 January 2010
  45. 1 2 Richard Mulligan, "Henry hat-trick caps super year", News Letter, 21 May 2010
  46. ↑ "Leinster Rugby : Leinster announce squad for 2010/11..." Leinsterrugby.ie. Archived from the original on 19 June 2010.
  47. ↑ "Fitzpatrick Takes Charge Of Dungannon", Irish Rugby, 30 August 2010
  48. ↑ "Ulster secure signing of 'Boks star Pienaar", Irish Independent, 28 May 2010
  49. ↑ "Springbok duo are straight into fray", News Letter, 13 August 2010
  50. ↑ "RUGBY: Paddy Jackson agrees two-year Ulster contract extension", News Letter, 1 March 2017
  51. ↑ "Marshall gets chance to showcase talent", Irish Independent, 25 February 2011
  52. 1 2 Niall Crozier, "Boks bag top gongs at awards", Belfast Telegraph, 11 May 2011
  53. ↑ "Ulster Sign All-Black Prop John Afoa". Ulster Rugby. 16 March 2011.
  54. ↑ "Payne signs with Ulster". The Blues. 1 April 2011.
  55. ↑ "Who is Iain Henderson: Ten things you should know about the Ireland lock", Rugby World, 10 June 2021
  56. ↑ "Leinster 42-14 Ulster". RTÉ Sport. RTÉ. 19 May 2012. Retrieved 19 May 2012.
  57. ↑ "It's Grim Up North - Ulster's Malaise", Digging Like a Demented Mole, 4 March 2018
  58. 1 2 "Ferris lost for words as he scoops top Ulster award", News Letter, 12 May 2012
  59. ↑ Williams signs for Ulster Ulster Rugby, 22 June 2012
  60. ↑ "Bowe going back to his roots". The Irish Times. Archived from the original on 10 March 2012. Retrieved 8 July 2022.
  61. ↑ "Ospreys' Bowe signs Ulster deal". BBC Sport.
  62. ↑ "Ulster Rugby Lad meets… Rob Herring", Ulster Rugby Lad, undated
  63. ↑ "Humphreys signs for London Irish". BBC Sport.
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  148. 1 2 3 "Ulster Rugby Announces Long-Term Stadium Naming Rights Partnership with Affidea", Ulster Rugby, 3 July 2025
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[edit]
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