Laya Healthcare Blitz Proves Big Success

There was a superb day of rugby at the laya healthcare Munster Schools U-17 10-a-side blitz last Wednesday in Rockwell College, Tipperary.

With excellent dry weather conditions, over 450 boys and girls Schools participated in the blitz, which was divided into two sections to facilitate the 'A' Rugby playing schools in one section and the emerging schools in the other.

This year's competition also featured a girls' tournament for the first time with five school teams experiencing this fun and explosive game of rugby. Irish women's international Nora Stapleton was also in attendance with the 6 Nations trophy.

A fabulous brand of open and expansive rugby was played throughout the day due to the nature of the 10 a side game. With both sections competing for cup and plate silverware, there was a great spectacle of running rugby on display.

The final of section 'A' saw Crescent College Comprehensive beat Glenstal Abbey in an entertaining game of free flowing rugby. In the emerging schools final an impressive St. Peter’s College, Passage side beat CBS Sexton Street, Limerick in another very entertaining contest.

Munster Rugby players Cathal Sheridan and Luke O’Dea were on hand to present the prizes, which involved the winners of both sections receiving laya healthcare branded Munster tops.

Munster Branch President Mick Goggin and Vice President Bertie Smith attended the blitz and upon presentation of the prizes Mr. Goggin paid tribute to all schools and their players for their involvement in this fabulous day and promotion of Munster schools rugby. The Munster Schools committee were represented on the day by Chairman Tony Smith with Cashel’s Peter Silke also in attendance.

In conjunction with the 10's competition the IRFU Leisure department ran a schools touch rugby event with a further 16 teams participating. Rockwell College provided a fantastic venue with all pitches in exemplary condition.

Munster Rugby would like to thank all schools for participating and look forward to running similar blitzes in the future.

John The Baptist School with Nora Stapleton and the 6 Nations trophy