Ulster star Humphreys returns to Academy

The former London Irish and Leicester Tigers out-half was back at the Galgorm Road school to present Academy player Marcus Rea with his Ulster Schools shirt.

Principal Mr Black said: “During his last year at school Ian had the honour of representing Ulster Schools in the Interprovincial Championship and the main purpose of his visit today is to help us recognise our two current pupils, Marcus Rea and Jonathan McKeown, who received that honour this year.

“Last Saturday, Ulster Schools held a shirt presentation for the squad and, as Marcus and Jonathan were unable to attend, it was decided to make that occasion this morning.”

“In my role as Chair of Ulster Schools, it has been a good year for the team, winning games against Glasgow, London Irish and Connacht, drawing with Leinster, before losing to Munster in what was effectively a Championship decider.”

“Marcus and Jonathan made a significant contribution to that team.”

“Unfortunately Jonathan is absent today but he would have been presented with the number 6 shirt. He had the honour of captaining the team, special recognition for someone particularly in his Lower Sixth year.

“He has also attended Irish Schools’ Training Camp over Halloween and been selected as one of six Ulster players for final Training Camp, which will take place over Christmas,” added Mr Black.

After the presentation Ian Humphreys took part in a short question and answer session with Mr. Black and stayed on for some photo opportunities.