Academy players in Ulster Schools’ squad for inter-provincial series

Ballymena Academy rugby players Michael Gillan, Josh McIlroy, Duncan Maguire and Andrew McGrath have been included in an extended Danske Bank Ulster Schools squad ahead of this season’s inter-provincial campaign.

The squad has been working hard throughout the summer under the guidance of coaches Richard Hedley and Ballymena man John Andrews.

Danske Bank Ulster Schools rugby players Andrew McGrath, Josh McIlroy and Duncan Maguire are pictured with their coach John Andrews. A fourth local player, Michael Gillan, has also been included in the squad.

placeholder image — Danske Bank Ulster Schools rugby players Andrew McGrath, Josh McIlroy and Duncan Maguire are pictured with their coach John Andrews. A fourth local player, Michael Gillan, has also been included in the squad.

The players have also benefitted from a major input from Ulster Rugby Academy staff including Elite Player Development Manager, Allen Clarke, and Academy Ulster Schools Coach Brian McLaughlin.

After kicking off their campaign against Connaght, Ulster host Leinster Schools at Belfast Harlequins RFC this Saturday 14th September before travelling to play Munster Schools on 21st September.

The Ulster Schools squad, sponsored by Danske Bank, finished as runners up in the 2012 series and this year’s group will be hoping to improve on that achievement.