Lacey Expecting Huge Turn Out

Meteor Munster Sevens Tournament Organiser John Lacey is confident that not only will Saturday’s inaugural tournament attract a huge turn-out to Old Crescent Rugby Club but that the competition will expand and become a regular feature in the Munster Branch fixture calendar.

Lacey already has plans for next season when he expects there to be an eight team Junior and eight  team Women’s competition. “There has been huge enthusiasm for Saturday’s event and right now we have the interest to expand into the Junior and Womens sectors.” says Lacey. “On Saturday we have the top senior sides with the top Munster AIL referees officiating and I’m delighted with the way everyone is preparing for it.”

The former Munster player – as well as been capped at Interprovincial level, Lacey played six Heineken Cup games  – balks at the idea of taking a playing part on Saturday, insisting he has retired – although still reported to be light on his feet around the dance floors of Limerick and Tipperary – preferring instead to swap boots for baton as tournament organisor of what is after all his brainchild.

“In fairness the enthusiasm from everyone has been brilliant,” he says, ” I think the clubs see it as an opportunity to bring along younger players, say Under, 20s alongside some more experienced lads. Sevens is a great way to hone player’s skills. From what I’m hearing they are looking forward to it and already there is interest in next year when I believe we will see an even bigger and better event.

“We have a really good product here. Good venue. We have a great sponsor in Meteor who couldn’t have been more supportive. I’m hoping that everyone, players and supporters alike who come here on Saturday have a great day out. After all that what it’s all about.”

And what better way to whet the appetite than Limerick v Cork opening matches, Garryowen v Sunday’s Well (Pitch One) and UL Bohemians v UCC (Pitch Two) at 12 noon

There will be plenty of off-pitch entertainment to keep everyone entertained (Bouncing Castles, Face Painting etc) while Murty the Munster Mascot will be on hand to arbitrate in any contentious matters that Mr Lacey feels unable to resolve.

Meteor Munster Rugby Sevens – Old Crescent RFC Saturday August 11th. 12 noon.