Third Level College Rugby Roundup

The Third Level Colleges rugby season drew to a close this week after the completion of the SSI Mens and Womens Leagues.

We caught up with each of the Munster based college sides to find out how they have progressed throughout the season.

UCC

UCC have had a successful season this year.

There has been a 17% increase in female rugby players from the start of the season to January 2025.

45% of the current squad took up rugby for the first time this year.

And the university were hosts of this year’s Kay Bowen Cup competition in February.

MTU Cork

It has been a standout year for the MTU Cork.

There women’s team overcame a talented UCC side, highlighting their improvement and dedication throughout the season.

Rugby returned to the National Marine College of Ireland as the men lined out for their first competitive game before Christmas which also resulted in the side’s very first win. You can read more about the side here.

Across the board there has been a increase in attendance at both men’s and women’s training sessions, reflecting growing interest and commitment.

SETU

South East Technological University have also had a busy year.

Firstly they have formed their largest female rugby panel in over five years.

The Men’s XV were undefeated and went on to win the league for the first time in eight years.

The men’s team also raised €780 for Mental Health charities through different challenges and coffee mornings.

MTU Kerry

The MTU Kerry men’s XV won their very first SSI game this year as they beat college rivals MTU Cork.

They’ve also been lucky enough to welcome several international players into their squads from places as far afield as South Africa and Zimbabwe.

TUS Midwest

TUS Midwest also had a booming year with their women’s side going on to play in the league final.

They also had a three players involved in the summer interpros squad and student Chisom Ugwueru then went on to join the Clovers for a successful Celtic Challenge run.

Their men’s side has also grown in numbers as they now boast a 47 strong panel who then went on to win a number of games throughout the season.

UL

The University of Limerick had another successful season.

Their women’s squad won the D1 league for the third time in a row.

The Men’s squad finished third in their league.

And overall the club has seen their numbers continue to grow and now have 205 members with 167 getting game time throughout the season.