Charlie adds another honour for Academy

A GLITTERING season for Ballymena Academy's First XV had one final silver lining last week.

Full-back Charlie Simpson, vice-captain of the side which lifted the Schools’ Cup on St Patrick’s Day, and who led the team for much of the season in the absence of injured skipper George Dennison, was named Northern Bank Ulster Schools' Player of the Year at last week’s Ulster Rugby awards.

Charlie has also been capped by Under 18's Schools for both Ulster and Ireland and was a pivotal figure in the Academy’s success.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Meanwhile, George Dennison hosted the annual captain’s BBQ recently. This was a family evening attended by players, mums, dads, brothers and sisters and brought the curtain down on the most successful rugby season for almost 30 years.

The 1st XV squad received the shirts they won in the final, and coaches John Andews and Gavin Murray received shirts to commemorate the part they played in bringing the Schools’ Cup to Ballymena.

Ken Storey also received a shirt to recognise all the help and support he had given during the training camp in France and during the cup run.

Veronica Hughes of Hughes & Associates was presented with a framed signed shirt, signed by all the players, for all the work she had put in as the team Physiotherapist throughout the season.

This was the last occasion when this squad will be together as the upper sixth members will leave the school this year.