RUGBY: Mark Pyper new chairman of Rugby Club

As Mark Pyper takes over as President for 2012-2013, not only is he looking forward to the rugby season ahead, he is enjoying the current success of the many cricket teams at the club.

With the cricket in full flight and training for rugby starting soon, Mark is set for a busy year supporting all the activities of the club.

Mark is proud of the many aspects of club life.

He said: “It is my privilege to be President of this remarkable club for the 2012-2013 season, following in the footsteps of Willie Duffin.

“Coleraine Rugby has a long history of success; last season the 1st XV squad reached the final of the Junior Cup and the semi-final of the All-Ireland Junior Cup and finished just outside the top four in the Junior League. The 2nd XV won the Crawford Cup and finished second in their league.

“We are delighted that Kenny Calladine is to be 1st XV rugby captain for the 2012-2013 season and I wish coaches Stevie Richie and Richard Beggs success for the new season.

“We are also a successful Cricket Club, each week turning out up to four winning teams to compete across the province and further afield. Already this season the First and Second XIs have reached the semi final of their respective cups and the Thirds have reached their final. All the sides, senior and junior, have been performing very strongly in their leagues.

“Ladies Hockey is another important part of the club setup and they will soon be competing again in this season’s in leagues and cups.

“One of the most important aspects of our club is the vibrant mini and youth section activity across all sports. Every week throughout the year hundreds of children and young people enjoy their sport, in training and competition, learning to love their chosen sport and becoming the adult players of tomorrow. The successful adult teams across the club are testament to the success of this policy.”

Mark promises a warm welcome to all visitors to the club and encourages everyone to get involved in their chosen sport. New members and supporters are always welcome.

As the new rugby season approaches, pre-season training will be starting soon and players are encouraged to come along to the club on Saturday, 14 July at 1.00pm for the initial workout and a good afternoon getting back into training, meeting up with old friends and making some new ones.

Existing players will be warmly welcomed and there is an open invitation for new players to come along as well. Whatever the level of experience there is a place for all. Training will continue from the following week, Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the club.