Ballymoney Six Nations stars of the future prepare to go Nutty!

Hoping to follow in the path of Six Nations victor and former Ulster Academy graduate Stephen Ferris, ‘U 19’ players from 14 clubs will be pitted against each other in the much loved tournament, to be crowned Nutty Krust Rugby Floodlit champions 2010 on 28th April 2010.

The fixtures, which were drawn by Mr Cecil Watson, President of the Ulster Branch (IRFU) guarantee a nail biting competition. Ballymoney will play 2009 holders Ballynahinch in their opening game on Wednesday 10th March.

The tournament, now classed as ‘U 19’ means players are better placed to join the Ulster Academy pathway if selected, which reaffirms the quality and standard of youth rugby in Northern Ireland and further reinforces the Nutty Krust Rugby Floodlit Tournament as a must see event in the sporting calendar.

Ulster Academy coach, Johnny Bell, explains the importance of the prestigious tournament, “The Nutty Krust Rugby Floodlit Tournament is a great opportunity to see the best young talent from the club game and Ulster Rugby in a competitive environment. From an Ulster Academy perspective we aim to unearth the next Stephen Ferris from such tournaments.”

Irwin’s Bakery has been the primary sponsor for the tournament since kick off in 1979, highlighting its continued support of youth sports development in Northern Ireland through sponsorship of youth rugby, the Nutty Krust Irish FA Summer Soccer Schools and GAA invitational tournaments.

Brian Irwin, executive chairman of Irwin’s, commented: “We are very pleased to continue to sponsor the long standing Nutty Krust Rugby Floodlit Tournament. It is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the organisers that the tournament is now in its 31st year and as successful as ever.

“Irwin’s Bakery would like to encourage the public to join them in cheering on the top young players from club rugby throughout the tournament at the home of Portadown Rugby, Chambers Park.”