Coleraine Grammar Rugby Association held a nostalgic evening of camaraderie, rugby discussions, and a celebration of sporting traditions at The Golf Links Hotel in Portrush. The event, attended by former players and supporters of Coleraine Grammar’s rugby team, marked an opportunity to reconnect and reflect on the school’s proud rugby history.
Local actor, comedian, and former Coleraine Inst rugby player Alan McKee served as host for the evening. McKee’s engaging humour set the tone for the night, which featured appearances by two rugby greats: Andrew Trimble, former Ulster and Ireland winger, and Kieran Campbell, Coleraine Grammar’s first full-time Director of Rugby.
In his address to the guests, Andrew Trimble reminisced about his illustrious career, while also highlighting the importance of grassroots rugby and the role schools like Coleraine Grammar play in developing future talent. Trimble’s insights were met with enthusiasm from the audience, many of whom had shared similar paths in the school’s rugby teams.
Kieran Campbell, who took on the role of Director of Rugby at Coleraine Grammar, spoke about the future of rugby at the school and the steps being taken to revive its success. Campbell’s appointment reflects the school’s commitment to reinvigorating its rugby programme, and his passion for fostering talent at the ‘School on the Hill’ was clear throughout the night.
Earlier that day, many of the attendees, made up predominantly of former Coleraine Inst players and long-time rugby supporters, watched the Coleraine Grammar 1st XV secure an impressive win against Regent House. The morning kick-off showcased the current talent emerging from the school’s ranks and was a fitting prelude to the evening’s festivities. Guests also had the chance to visit the school museum, taking in decades of memorabilia documenting Coleraine’s rich sporting legacy.
Richard Beggs, Coleraine Grammar’s Head of Sport and organiser of the dinner, expressed his joy at the event’s success. “It was fantastic to catch up with old friends, players, and teammates who share a deep passion for rugby and a desire to see the glory days return to the Castlerock Road,” he said. “This event was as much about reliving the past as it was about looking forward. Most importantly, it was about friendship, camaraderie, and enjoyment, all in the best traditions of rugby.”
Beggs also hopes the dinner will be the first of many to come, with a focus on fostering the continued development of the sport at the school. “We’re hopeful this event is the beginning of a regular tradition,” he added. “There’s a shared desire to see Coleraine Grammar’s rugby programme flourish, and gatherings like this can play an important part in that journey.”
With the success of the evening and the ongoing rugby revolution at Coleraine Grammar, the school looks forward to building on its legacy, with hopes of nurturing the next generation of rugby stars.
The event highlighted the strong connection between past and present players, ensuring that the spirit of rugby at Coleraine Grammar remains vibrant for years to come.
