Club Notes | Kilrush RFC Celebrates 100 Years

Celebrations Shannonside as Kilrush RFC ring in their 100th year.

Nestled on the mouth of the River Shannon, Kilrush RFC was founded in 1924 but did not officially join the Munster Branch until 1971.

The West Clare based club reached a golden period in the 1980s as the club clinched the Webb Cup three times, earning a formidable reputation in West Clare rugby.

They credited their success during that period to their focus on nurturing their youth system and the fact they had so many young players rise through the ranks to join their senior team at that time.

In the years that followed, Kilrush RFC continued to focus on nurturing young talent. The club developed a robust underage structure, fielding teams from Under 13 to Under 18.

Speaking about the growth of their club, club public relations officer Owen Cotter said

“We are a small club that are competing for players and resources in a GAA-dominant environment. But we have a strong following and get steady numbers through the gates every year joining our mini’s group.

“It’s becoming more challenging to compete with GAA’s 12-month calendar, but we work well with the local clubs and we aim to offer an alternative for those with a different skill set or interest.

“Our catchment area is essentially from Loop Head to Labasheeda/Kildysart, up to Kilmihil and Miltown Malbay, and we’d love to see more players – mini’s, youths or adults, get involved with the club either as players or in a voluntary capacity, to help the club grow.”

This commitment also extended to girls’ rugby, with Under 16 and Under 18 teams paving the way for a future senior women’s team which in later years would join forces with neighbours Ennis RFC. This team would go onwards to reach the brink of All Ireland League qualification in just their second year playing together.

Kilrush RFC’s facilities have also seen significant upgrades. The club now has its own changing rooms, a main pitch, and now a second pitch which was added in recent years. Speaking about the upgrades and the efforts the club has made to raise the funds Cotter said

“In the last few years we have developed a 2nd pitch, which is still maturing, but looking better this year and possibly will be able for a few games in the spring of 2025.

“We’ve had a lot of success with our fundraising in the last three or four years also which is helping with development. Our main fundraiser is a very successful annual Tractor Run, where we partner with a local charity to which we make a donation from the funds raised, and our now annual golf classic which is also a great day out.”

This year saw the club reach a milestone anniversary as the club reached it’s 100th year.

They celebrated with a centenary dinner at the Kilrush Golf Club. The event brought together club members, community supporters and distinguished guests for an evening that honoured the legacy, growth and future of rugby in West Clare.

One of the evening’s key moments was the tribute the club paid towards long-time club president David Glynn, who was honoured for his 54 years of dedication.

Munster Rugby would like to congratulate Kilrush RFC on this momentous occasion and wish them all the best for the seasons to come.

To take a look at some photos from Kilrush’s centenary dinner scroll down.

IRFU President Declan Madden addresses the assembled membership, past & present

The top table celebrating 54 years of commitment to Kilrush RFC from Honorary President David Glynn (seated)

Kilrush RFC President, David Glynn, making a presentation to IRFU President Declan Madden

Kilrush RFC Committee Members L to R Joe O’Gorman, Andrew Burke, David Smith, Kay Deloughery, Suzie Glynn, Kevin Finn, Sabrina McMahon, Linda O’Gorman, Derek Farrell & Alan Hogan