#MunsterStartsHere Video Series Review

The #MunsterStartsHere video series highlights the fantastic work that goes on behind the scenes to develop the game across the province.

The videos showcase the key roles played by clubs, schools, volunteers and development officers when ensuring the growth of age-grade structures and community programmes.

The most recent ‘season’ came to a conclusion this month with a video showcasing the growth of the rugby programme in CBS High School Clonmel in Tipperary.

The most recent videos spanned two seasons due to the disruption associated with Covid-19. However, the restrictions also shone a light on the incredible work displayed by volunteers and other passionate stakeholders throughout the province where despite challenges and obstacles, contributed to providing a rugby offering for all ages.

CBS High School Clonmel

CBS High School in Clonmel, Co. Tipperary feature in the latest video with a spotlight on the school’s rugby programme and how it has developed over the years.

We speak to Assistant Principal & Rugby Coordinator Brendan Mullan, Teacher and Rugby Coach Joe Sheehan and Munster Rugby Club Community Rugby Officer (CCRO) Aidan Butler who all discuss the growth of rugby in the school.

East Munster Emerging Schools

We spoke to Club Community Rugby Officer Jack Jacob and Munster Rugby Senior Men’s Player Jack O’Donoghue at a recent East Munster Emerging Schools Blitz held at Waterpark RFC.

Jacob and O’Donoghue both speak about the benefits of blitz days in the development of youth players.

The blitz day was held on the one-year anniversary of the passing of our dear friend John O’Neill.

‘Johnno’ was a pivotal figure in helping increase participation and grow the sport for all ages in the Waterford and East Munster region.

Ballincollig Trailblazers

The Ballincollig Trailblazers are a women’s mixed-ability rugby team in Cork City. We spoke to coach Robert Keane and players Ciara Aherne and Marie Healy who discuss the importance of mixed ability rugby and the opportunities that it provides.

Crescent College Comprehensive

Crescent College Comprehensive feature in the #MunsterStartsHere video series with a spotlight on the school’s rugby programme and how the players and coaches navigated the difficulties arising from the pandemic.

Senior coach Ian Sherwin and Munster Rugby CCRO Matt Brown both reveal the pride they have in the playing group for how they remained committed and motivated throughout the uncertainties which arose over the last 12 months.

Ennis RFC Girls Rugby

With a hugely successful age-grade section, girls’ rugby has gone from strength to strength at Ennis RFC.

WIT Women’s Rugby

The women’s rugby team at Waterford Institute of Technology feature in the #MunsterStartsHere video series and highlight the benefits of participating in college rugby.

Fossa National School

Fossa National School from Killarney feature in the #MunsterStartsHere video series with a spotlight on their rugby activity sessions for children with additional needs.