Ulster Rugby

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Ulster Rugby
Ulster Rugby logo.svg
Nickname(s)The Ulstermen
Founded1879;145 years ago (1879)
Location Belfast, Northern Ireland
Ground(s) Ravenhill Stadium (Capacity: 18,196)
ChairmanHugh McCaughey (interim)
Coach(es) Richie Murphy
Captain(s) Iain Henderson
Most appearances Rob Herring (241)
Top scorer David Humphreys (1,585)
Most tries Andrew Trimble (76)
League(s) United Rugby Championship
2023–24 Quarter-finals
2nd Irish Shield
(6th overall)
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Official website
ulster.rugby
Rugby football current event.svg Current season

Ulster Rugby is one of the four professional provincial rugby union teams from the island of Ireland. They compete in the Irish regional pool of the United Rugby Championship and in the European Rugby Champions Cup, each of which they have won once. Ulster were the first Irish team and the first team outside England and France to win the European Cup in 1999.

Contents

The team represents the IRFU Ulster Branch, which is one of the four primary branches of the IRFU and is responsible for rugby union throughout the geographical Irish province of Ulster, comprising Northern Ireland (Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone) and three counties in the Republic of Ireland which are Donegal, Monaghan and Cavan.

Prior to professionalisation, Ulster were a representative amateur team taking part in the IRFU Interprovincial Championship. They have also competed in the now defunct Celtic Cup (2003–05). Their development team, Ulster A, formerly known as the Ulster Ravens, have competed in the British and Irish Cup (2009–18) and a revived Celtic Cup (2018–20).

History

Foundation (1868–1879)

Map of IRFU provincial branches Map of IRFU provincial branches.svg
Map of IRFU provincial branches

A number of clubs were operating in Ulster prior to the foundation of the Irish Rugby Football Union and the Ulster branch. The Belfast-based North of Ireland F.C., founded in 1868, was the earliest club to operate in the province. Clubs from this era still in existence include Dungannon and Queen's University. The first Irish inter-provincial game took place in 1875 between Ulster and Leinster, with Ulster being the victors. [1] In Ireland's first international match, which was played in 1875 against England, eight Ulster-based players took part. Rugby in Ulster at this time was mostly overseen by the Irish Football Union, with the Northern Football Union of Ireland controlling the game in Belfast. The two unions amalgamated in 1879, with the provincial branches of Ulster, Leinster and Munster being founded as part of the terms of this arrangement. [2] The final Irish provincial side, Connacht, was founded in 1885. [3]

Amateur era (1879–1995)

During the amateur era Irish players primarily played for their respective clubs, with provincial games effectively treated as Irish trial matches. [4] The provincial teams were also used to provide competitive club opposition for touring international sides. Inter-provincial games were played on an irregular basis but starting in the 1946–47 season, the provinces played against each other in the annual Irish Interprovincial Championship. [3] Ulster won this tournament 26 times in total, with eight of these titles being shared.

Ulster first appointed a coach in 1969. The first three coaches enjoyed great success in the Interprovincial Championship. Under Ken Armstrong [5] Ulster won the title unbeaten in 1969 and 1970, and finished second, losing only once, in 1971. [6] He was succeeded by Maurice Crabbe, under whom Ulster shared the title in 1972, came third in 1973, and won it in 1974. George Spotswood then led Ulster to a shared title in 1975, an unbeaten championship in 1976, and another shared title in 1976. Under Cecil Watson, Ulster came third in 1978 and fourth in 1979, and came third in 1980 under Matt Gillen, before form began to return under Willie John McBride, who led them to second place in 1981 and a shared title in 1982.

Their most sustained period of success began under Jimmy Davidson. In his first season, 1983, Ulster finished third, before he led them to three straight undefeated championships in 1984-86. Harry Williams succeeded him, and under him Ulster shared the title in 1987 and won three straight undefeated titles in 1988-90. Then Davy McMaster led Ulster to two undefeated titles in 1991 and 1992, and a shared title in 1991. Under these three coaches, Ulster won or shared ten Interprovincial Championships in a row. [7] [8] [9]

Brian Bloomfield was the final coach of the amateur era, coming joint second in 1994.

Professional success (1999–2006)

After rugby union was declared open to professionalism in 1995, the IRFU gradually developed the provincial sides as professional teams. [10] The Heineken Cup was launched in 1995 to provide a new level of European cross-border competition, [11] and Ulster, coached by Harry Williams and captained by David Humphreys, became the first Irish team to win it in the 1998–99 season, beating beat French side US Colomiers 21–6 in the final at Lansdowne Road in Dublin. [12]

The Celtic League, featuring all four Irish provinces plus teams from Scotland and Wales, was launched in 2001. [13] From 2001 to 2004, the Ulster team was coached by Alan Solomons, a former assistant coach of the Springboks and head coach of The Stormers and Western Province in his native South Africa. Solomons coached Ulster to a three-year unbeaten home record in the Heineken Cup. [14] In the 2003–04 season, Ulster finished second in the Celtic League, only overtaken by Llanelli on the final day of the campaign. Two of Ulster's most impressive achievements in this period were a 33–0 win over English giants Leicester Tigers in the Heineken Cup in January 2004, [15] and winning the inaugural Celtic Cup on 20 December 2003, beating Edinburgh in a rain-soaked Murrayfield final. [16]

Solomons was succeeded by Mark McCall, former captain of the province and a member of Ulster's Heineken Cup winning squad, [17] with former teammate Allen Clarke as his assistant, [18] and Ulster's unbeaten home run in Europe was extended to four years. [19] [20] Dominant forward play by Australian lock Justin Harrison, New Zealand-born Irish scrum-half Isaac Boss, and a rapid maturing of a youthful home-grown three-quarter line made Ulster champions of the 2005–06 Celtic League. On the last day of the season, the title came down between Ulster and Leinster, before being decided in Ulster's favour by a 40-metre David Humphreys drop goal against Ospreys. [21]

Decline (2006–2010)

Ulster started the 2006–07 season well, including beating Toulouse 30–3 in the Heineken Cup. [22] But this form did not continue, they were eliminated from the competition early, and finished fifth in the Celtic League. Back row forward Roger Wilson was Player of the Year. [23]

Opreys v Ulster in 2008 Opreys v Ulster 2008.jpg
Opreys v Ulster in 2008

The team began the 2007-08 season with a poor run of results, and Mark McCall resigned in November following Ulster's embarrassing 32–14 home defeat to Gloucester in the opening round of the 2007–08 Heineken Cup. [24] Assistant coach Steve Williams took temporary charge, and Matt Williams took charge in February, but failed to turn the season around, with Ulster finishing 9th in the 10 team Celtic League. Centre Darren Cave made his debut from the academy. [25] At the end of the season wing Tommy Bowe, who was named Player of the Year, [26] left for Ospreys. [27] Roger Wilson went to Northampton Saints. [28] Out-half David Humphreys retired, and was appointed the province's Director of Operations. [29]

The following season out-half Ian Humphreys, David's younger brother, was signed from Leicester Tigers. [30] Ulster finished third in their Heineken Cup group and eighth in the Celtic League, and Williams resigned. [31] Hooker Rory Best was Player of the Year. [32]

For the 2009-10 season a new management structure was put in place, with David Humphreys as director of rugby and Brian McLaughlin as head coach, assisted by Jeremy Davidson and Neil Doak. [31] New signings included lock Dan Tuohy from Exeter. [33] Centre Nevin Spence made his debut from the academy. [34] The season saw an improvement in Ulster's Heineken Cup form, including their first away win in England against Bath, [35] but they finished eighth in the Celtic League. Flanker Chris Henry was Player of the Year. [36] At the end of the season, scrum-half Isaac Boss left for Leinster, [37] and prop Justin Fitzpatrick retired. [38]

Revival (2010–2014)

The 2010-11 season saw significant improvement. Ulster signed key players including 2007 Rugby World Cup winning Springboks Ruan Pienaar [39] and Johann Muller. [40] Out-half Paddy Jackson. [41] and centre Luke Marshall [42] made their debuts from the academy. Ulster made the semi-finals of the Celtic League and the quarter-finals of the Heineken Cup. Ruan Pienaar was Player of the Year. [43]

New signings for the 2011-12 season included prop John Afoa [44] and utility back Jared Payne. [45] Academy lock Iain Henderson made his senior debut. [46] Ulster reached the Heineken Cup final, losing to Leinster at Twickenham. [47] The Celtic League had been renamed the Pro12 after the addition of two Italian teams, and Ulster finished sixth. Brian McLaughlin was replaced as head coach by Mark Anscombe. [48] Flanker Chris Henry was Player of the Year. [49]

New signings for the 2012–13 season included back row forward Nick Williams from the now defunct Aironi, [50] wing Tommy Bowe, returning from his four-year stay at the Ospreys, [51] back row forward Roger Wilson, returning from Northampton Saints, [52] and Irish-qualified South African hooker Rob Herring, initially on a six-month trial. [53] Out-half Ian Humphreys left for London Irish. [54] Centre Nevin Spence died in an accident at the family farm. [55] Ulster started the season with 13 consecutive wins in all competitions, the longest unbeaten run in their history. [56] They finished top of their group in the Heineken Cup, qualifying for the quarter-finals, where they lost to Northampton Saints. They finished top of the table in the Pro12, earning a home semi-final, in which they defeated Scarlets 27–16 in the last match before the old grandstand was demolished. The redevelopment of Ravenhill meant the final against Leinster had to be played at the RDS Arena in Dublin. Leinster won 24–18. Lock Alan O'Connor made his debut from the academy this season. [57] Wing Andrew Trimble was Player of the Year. [58]

The 2013–14 season proved trophyless again. For the first time, Ulster won all their Heineken Cup group games, with away victories against Montpellier and Leicester Tigers being the highlight. They were knocked out at the quarterfinal stage with a 17–15 home defeat to Saracens. The Pro12 season was racked with inconsistency and Ulster finished the league season in fourth place. This set up an away semi-final with Leinster, and for the fourth time in four seasons the season was ended by their old foes with a 13–9 defeat. Centre Stuart McCloskey [59] and prop Andrew Warwick made their debuts from the academy. [60] Andrew Trimble was Player of the Year for the second year running. [61] The season ended with the retirements of captain Johann Muller, centre Paddy Wallace, and flanker Stephen Ferris. Director of Rugby David Humphreys also left the province to take up a similar position at Gloucester Rugby. Following Humphreys' departure, Mark Anscombe was sacked by the province and was replaced by Ireland defence coach Les Kiss on an interim basis. [62]

2014–17 – the Les Kiss years

Ulster v Glasgow match, October 2014 Ulster v Glasgow Warriors October 2014.jpg
Ulster v Glasgow match, October 2014

The 2014–15 season was Ulster's first under director of rugby Les Kiss [63] and head coach Neil Doak. [64] The redeveloped Ravenhill, renamed the Kingspan Stadium, now had a capacity of 18,196. [65] Rory Best was named captain after the retirement of Johann Muller. [66] New signings included out-half Ian Humphreys, returning from London Irish, [67] lock Franco van der Merwe from the Lions, [68] outside back Louis Ludik from Agen, and flanker Sean Reidy from Counties Manukau. [67] Ulster were knocked out of the new European Champions Cup at the group stage. They finished fourth in the Pro12 but narrowly lost in the playoff semifinal to eventual champions Glasgow Warriors. Prop Declan Fitzpatrick retired at the end of the season. [69] Wing Craig Gilroy was named Player of the Year. [70]

In 2015–16, Ulster were knocked out of the Champions Cup at the group stage despite a memorable back to back win over Toulouse. They finished fourth in the Pro12 but reached the semi-finals, losing to Leinster. Wing Jacob Stockdale made his debut from the academy. [71] Centre Stuart McCloskey was Player of the Year. [72]

Before the 2016–17 season, Nick Williams left for Cardiff Blues [73] and Dan Tuohy for Bristol Bears, [74] and Ian Humphreys retired. [75] Ulster signed back row forward Marcell Coetzee, [76] fullback Charles Piutau [77] and lock Kieran Treadwell. [78] Academy flanker Nick Timoney made his debut. [79] Ulster finished the season bottom of their pool in the Heineken Cup, and fifth in the Pro12. Charles Piutau was Player of the Year. [80]

2017–18 - the "basket case" season

For the 2017–18 season, the Pro12 became the Pro14 with the addition of two South African teams. Head coach Neil Doak's contract was not renewed and he was replaced by Jono Gibbes. [81] Assistant coach Allen Clarke also left, replaced by Dwayne Peel. [82] All-time appearance holder Roger Wilson retired, and scrum-half Ruan Pienaar was blocked by the IRFU from extending his contract. [83] John Cooney was signed from Connacht to replace him. [84]

Before the season started, out-half Paddy Jackson and centre Stuart Olding were charged with rape and suspended from playing pending trial. [85] Both would be acquitted, but have their contracts revoked. [86] Australian out-half Christian Lealiifano was signed on loan. [87] Prop Tom O'Toole made his debut from the academy. [88] After a poor run of form over the Christmas period, Les Kiss resigned as Director of Rugby, [89] and Gibbes cut his contract short, leaving at the end of the season. [90] Ulster finished third in their Champions Cup pool, and fourth in Conference B of the Pro14, failing to qualify for the playoffs and needing to win a playoff to qualify for the next season's Champions Cup. [91] Former Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll described the province as "a bit of a basket case", facing "Administration issues, senior players retiring, the well documented court case, now no number 10 to build the team around, no coach next year, struggling for Champions Cup rugby next season." [92] Scrum-half John Cooney was named Player of the Year. [93]

2018–24: the Dan McFarland years

For the 2018–19 season Dan McFarland was brought in as the new head coach. [94] Jared Payne, Tommy Bowe, Andrew Trimble and Chris Henry all retired, and Charles Piutau left for Bristol Bears. [95] Out-half Billy Burns was signed from Gloucester, [96] prop Marty Moore from Wasps, [97] flanker Jordi Murphy from Leinster, [98] and utility back Will Addison from Sale Sharks. [99] Prop Eric O'Sullivan, wing Robert Baloucoune, centre James Hume, fullback Michael Lowry and flanker Marcus Rea all made their debuts from the academy. Ulster finished the season as quarter-finalists in the Champions Cup, and semi-finalists in the Pro14, losing to Glasgow Warriors. [100] Rory Best [101] and Darren Cave retired at the end of the season. [102] Centre Stuart McCloskey was Player of the Year for the second time. [103]

Lock Iain Henderson was named captain for the 2019–20 season. [104] Ulster were again quarter-finalists in the Champions Cup, going out to Toulouse, [105] and reached the final of the Pro14, losing to Leinster. [106] Centre Stewart Moore and wing Ethan McIlroy [107] made their debuts from the academy, and scrum-half John Cooney was Player of the Year for the second time. [108]

The 2020–21 season was shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, and games were played behind closed doors. Ulster finished second in Conference A of the Pro14, but failed to make the knockout stages of the Champions Cup and were entered into the Challenge Cup. They progressed to the semi-finals, where they were beaten by Leicester Tigers. The season's final competition was the Pro14 Rainbow Cup, pitting the Pro14's European teams against the four South African teams who were leaving Super Rugby. Ulster's form in this competition was poor, and they finished tenth in the European pool. Marcell Coetzee cut short his contract and left for the Bulls before the end of the season. [109] Academy players Cormac Izuchukwu, Nathan Doak, David McCann, Callum Reid and Aaron Sexton all made their senior debuts this season. [110] Lock Alan O'Connor was Player of the Year. [111]

In 2021–22 the Pro14 became the United Rugby Championship, with the addition of four new South African teams. Ulster made the semi-finals, where they narrowly lost to the Stormers in Cape Town. In the Champions Cup, they made the knockout stage, but went out in a two-legged round of sixteen playoff against Toulouse by an aggregate score of 50–49. Centre James Hume was Player of the Year. [112]

New signings for the 2022-23 season included prop Jeffery Toomaga-Allen. [113] Lock Harry Sheridan [114] and centre Jude Postlethwaite [115] made their senior debuts. Despite a poor run of results in mid-season, [116] Ulster made the knockout stage of the Champions Cup, going out in the round of 16 to Leinster. [117] They became the first European team in the URC to win all four league games against South African opposition, and secured a home quarter-final with a home win over the Bulls in March, [118] which they lost to Connacht. [119] Hooker Tom Stewart was named Player of the Year after scoring 16 tries in the URC, a league record, and 17 tries in all competitions, an Ulster record. [120]

New signings for the 2023–24 season included prop Steven Kitshoff and flanker Dave Ewers. After a difficult first half of the season, McFarland left his position, to be replaced by assistant coach Dan Soper until after the Six Nations Under 20s Championship, after which Ireland under-20 coach Richie Murphy would take over until the end of the season. [121] Chief Executive Jonny Petrie left not long after, replaced on an interim basis by Hugh McCaughey. [122] Murphy signed a two-year contract in May. [123] Ulster finished sixth in the URC, going out in the quarter-finals to Leinster, and went out of the Champions Cup at the pool stage, dropping into the Challenge Cup where they made the quarter-finals. Flanker David McCann was Player of the Season. [124] Prop Scott Wilson made his debut from the academy.

2024 on

Before the 2024–25 season, Richie Murphy's first full season in charge, there were significant changes. Out-half Billy Burns left for Munster; [125] prop Steven Kitshoff returned to the Stormers, [126] where he was joined by flanker Dave Ewers; [127] utility back Will Addison signed for Sale Sharks; [128] and centre Luke Marshall retired. [129] New signings included wing Werner Kok from the Sharks [130] and Irish-qualified out-half Aidan Morgan from the Hurricanes. [131] Ireland Sevens player of the year Zac Ward, son of former Ulster captain Andy Ward, joined Ulster on a trial basis. [132] Jimmy Duffy replaced Roddy Grant as forwards coach, [133] Sam Dodge joined as head of athletic performance, [134] and skills coach Craig Newby left for Ealing Trailfinders. [135]

Previous season summaries

Domestic LeagueEuropean CupDomestic / 'A' Cup
SeasonCompetitionFinal Position (Pool)PointsPlay-offsCompetitionPerformanceCompetitionPerformance
1995–96 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 2nd
1996–97 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 3rd
1997–98 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 3rd
1998–99 No competition Heineken Cup Champions Interprovincial Championship 2nd
1999–00 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 2nd
2000–01 No competition Heineken Cup 4th in pool Interprovincial Championship 2nd
2001–02 Celtic League 2nd (A)13Semi-final Heineken Cup 2nd in pool Interprovincial Championship 2nd
2002–03 Celtic League 3rd (A)22Semi-final Heineken Cup 3rd in poolNo competition
2003–04 Celtic League 2nd72N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in pool Celtic Cup Champions
2004–05 Celtic League 8th43N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in pool Celtic Cup Quarter-final
2005–06 Celtic League Champions75N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in poolNo competition
2006–07 Magners League 5th55N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in poolNo competition
2007–08 Magners League 9th29N/A Heineken Cup 4th in poolNo competition
2008–09 Magners League 8th36N/A Heineken Cup 3rd in poolNo competition
2009–10 Magners League 8th36Did not qualify Heineken Cup 2nd in pool British and Irish Cup Semi-final
2010–11 Magners League 3rd67Semi-final Heineken Cup Quarter-final British and Irish Cup 5th in pool
2011–12 RaboDirect PRO12 6th56Did not qualify Heineken Cup Runner-up British and Irish Cup Quarter-final
2012–13 RaboDirect PRO12 1st81Runner-up Heineken Cup Quarter-final British and Irish Cup 2nd in pool
2013–14 RaboDirect PRO12 4th70Semi-final Heineken Cup Quarter-final British and Irish Cup 2nd in pool
2014–15 Guinness PRO12 4th69Semi-final Champions Cup 3rd in pool British and Irish Cup 3rd in pool
2015–16 Guinness PRO12 4th69Semi-final Champions Cup 2nd in pool British and Irish Cup 3rd in pool
2016–17 Guinness PRO12 5th68Did not qualify Champions Cup 4th in pool British and Irish Cup Quarter-final
2017–18 Guinness PRO14 4th (B)62Did not qualify Champions Cup 3rd in pool British and Irish Cup Quarter-final
2018–19 Guinness PRO14 2nd (B)63Semi-final Champions Cup Quarter-final Celtic Cup 3rd in pool
2019–20 Guinness PRO14 2nd (A)44Runner-up Champions Cup Quarter-final Celtic Cup Runner-up
2020–21 Guinness PRO14 2nd (A)64Did not qualify Challenge Cup*Semi-final Rainbow Cup 10th in pool
2021–22 United Rugby Championship 3rd59Semi-final Champions Cup Round of 16 URC Shield 2nd in pool
2022–23 United Rugby Championship 2nd68Quarter-final Champions Cup Round of 16 URC Shield 2nd in pool
2023–24 United Rugby Championship 6th54Quarter-final Challenge Cup*Quarter-final URC Shield 2nd in pool

Gold background denotes champions
Silver background denotes runner-up

* After dropping into the competition from the Champions Cup/Heineken Cup

Current standings

United Rugby Championship

2024–25 United Rugby Championship
watch · edit · discuss
TeamPWDLPFPAPDTFTATBLBPts
1 IRFU flag.svg Leinster 770021292+12032126034
2 Flag of Scotland.svg Glasgow Warriors 7502215129+8632165227
3 Flag of South Africa.svg Bulls 6501165108+5723123124
4 Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Cardiff 7403161178–1724244121
5 Flag of South Africa.svg Lions 6402139112+2717162119
6 Flag of South Africa.svg Sharks 6402163167–420242119
7 Flag of Scotland.svg Edinburgh 7304196180+1626264218
8 IRFU flag.svg Connacht 7304177188–1126254218
9 Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Scarlets 7313151134+1718191217
10 IRFU flag.svg Ulster 7304170188–1826283217
11 IRFU flag.svg Munster 7304163186–2326254016
12 Flag of Italy.svg Benetton 7214152195–4319263114
13 Flag of South Africa.svg Stormers 6204133148-1515202111
14 Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Ospreys 7205128170–4216221211
15 Flag of Italy.svg Zebre Parma 7205106181–7513251211
16 Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Dragons 7106129204–751528127
If teams are level at any stage, tiebreakers are applied in the following order: [136]
  1. number of matches won;
  2. the difference between points for and points against;
  3. the number of tries scored;
  4. the most points scored;
  5. the difference between tries for and tries against;
  6. the fewest red cards received;
  7. the fewest yellow cards received.
Green background indicates teams that are in play-off places and earn a place in the 2025–26 European Champions Cup

Pink background indicates teams that are in play-off places and earn a place in the 2025–26 European Challenge Cup
Yellow background indicates the team that won the 2024–25 European Challenge Cup and thus qualify for the 2025–26 European Champions Cup, but are not in a play-off place
Plain background indicates teams that earn a place in the 2025–26 European Challenge Cup.
Q: qualified for play-offs.H: home field advantage secured for quarter-and semi-final. h; home field advantage secured for quarter-finalX: cannot reach play-offs.E: qualified for Champions Cup.

    European Rugby Champions Cup

    Pool B

    2023–24 European Rugby Champions Cup Pool B
    Team
    		PWDLPFPADiffTFTATBLBPts
    Flag of France.svg Toulouse (1)440017869+10926104020
    Flag of England.svg Harlequins (5)4301151109+4222163015
    Flag of England.svg Bath (9)4301124102+2218143015
    Flag of France.svg Racing 92 (16)4103116117–11716228
    IRFU flag.svg Ulster (12CC)410388147–591222105
    Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Cardiff 400480193–1131128213
    Green background (rows 1 to 2) indicates qualification places for a home Champions Cup round of 16.
    Blue background (rows 3 to 4) indicates other teams qualified for the Champions Cup round of 16.
    Yellow background (row 5) indicates qualification place for the Challenge Cup round of 16.
    Plain background (row 6) indicates elimination from 2023–24 European competition.
    Starting table — source: European Professional Club Rugby

    Honours

    Crest

    The flag of the province of Ulster Flag of Ulster.svg
    The flag of the province of Ulster

    The current crest was introduced in 2003. The new, stylised crest is made specific to Ulster Rugby as it incorporates the red hand from the provincial flag of Ulster with two rugby balls. [138] The Ulster Rugby crest is on all official club merchandise including replica jerseys.

    Stadium

    Ravenhill Stadium Kingspan Stadium, Belfast.jpg
    Ravenhill Stadium

    The Ravenhill Stadium, known for sponsorship reasons as the Kingspan Stadium since 2014, opened in 1923. [139] It has hosted two Rugby World Cup matches, several Ireland national team matches, the 2015 Pro12 Grand Final and many 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup matches, including the final.

    The Premium Stand opened in 2009. In 2011, the Northern Ireland Executive announced that it had granted £138m for various stadium redevelopment projects throughout Northern Ireland. Ulster Rugby received £14.5m, which was used to redevelop Ravenhill and expand its capacity from 12,000 to 18,000. [140] The rest of the redevelopment took place from 2012 to 2014. In 2012, Ulster Rugby confirmed that three new stands would be built at Ravenhill, with work commencing in late 2012. Two new stands at the Memorial and Aquinas ends of the stadium were completed while the main stand was demolished and rebuilt. The major refurbishment was completed in April 2014. [141] After the rest of the redevelopment was completed, the stadium was renamed the Kingspan Stadium.

    Home attendance

    Domestic LeagueEuropean CupTotal
    LeagueFixturesAverage AttendanceHighestLowestLeagueFixturesAverage AttendanceHighestLowestTotal AttendanceAverage Attendance
    ––––– 1995–96 Heineken Cup 12,5002,5002,5002,5002,500
    ––––– 1996–97 Heineken Cup 25,7508,0003,50011,5005,750
    ––––– 1997–98 Heineken Cup 32,6173,2502,1007,8502,617
    ––––– 1998–99 Heineken Cup 511,00020,0004,50055,00011,000
    ––––– 1999–00 Heineken Cup 38,66712,0006,00026,0008,667
    ––––– 2000–01 Heineken Cup 312,50013,50012,00037,50012,500
    2001–02 Celtic League 48,50012,0006,000 2001–02 Heineken Cup 311,83313,00010,00069,5009,929
    2002–03 Celtic League 48,37510,5006,000 2002–03 Heineken Cup 311,71712,50011,00068,6509,807
    2003–04 Celtic League 12•6,86312,0005,041 2003–04 Heineken Cup 311,48912,30010,243116,8197,788
    2004–05 Celtic League 106,6938,1455,638 2004–05 Heineken Cup 39,45211,4357,32095,2837,330
    2005–06 Celtic League 109,18112,3006,487 2005–06 Heineken Cup 312,28412,30012,252128,6659,897
    2006–07 Celtic League 1010,20712,9007,429 2006–07 Heineken Cup 312,59912,77212,278139,86210,759
    2007–08 Celtic League 99,66113,1326,592 2007–08 Heineken Cup 310,33513,0008,340117,9569,830
    2008–09 Celtic League 99,08513,5007,368 2008–09 Heineken Cup 39,32910,3978,729109,7529,146
    2009–10 Celtic League 98,86311,8007,334 2009–10 Heineken Cup 310,50911,0008,262109,9479,162
    2010–11 Celtic League 118,47611,4266,651 2010–11 Heineken Cup 38,86310,5667,777119,8298,559
    2011–12 Pro12 118,25811,3796,296 2011–12 Heineken Cup 39,59311,9007,494119,6208,544
    2012–13 Pro12 1210,37311,0788,108 2012–13 Heineken Cup 311,12311,45110,940157,84010,523
    2013–14 Pro12 1113,34816,95010,693 2013–14 Heineken Cup 414,46416,85312,977204,67813,645
    2014–15 Pro12 1116,03717,13913,501 2014–15 European Rugby Champions Cup 316,17916,93115,659224,94616,068
    2015–16 Pro12 1115,31017,33212,640 2015–16 European Rugby Champions Cup 316,11117,10815,108216,74015,481
    2016–17 Pro12 1115,96117,67613,663 2016–17 European Rugby Champions Cup 316,02816,84314,924223,65815,976
    2017–18 Pro14 12*14,02617,6317,014 2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup 315,31415,64615,004214,24714,283
    2018–19 Pro14 1113,83517,35811,882 2018–19 European Rugby Champions Cup 314,03916,84212,124194,30013,879
    2019–20 Pro14 7‡13,81817,48310,975 2019–20 European Rugby Champions Cup 317,02417,92315,466147,79614,780
    2020–21 Pro14
    Pro14 Rainbow Cup     		0‡––– 2020–21 European Rugby Champions Cup 0‡–––––
    2021–22 United Rugby Championship 1011,69616,2749,542 2021–22 European Rugby Champions Cup 314,96918,19612,000161,86912,452
    2022–23 United Rugby Championship 1013,41316,74110,858 2022–23 European Rugby Champions Cup 118,19618,19618,196152,33013,848
    2023–24 United Rugby Championship 8†13,67918,19610,181 2023–24 European Rugby Champions Cup 214,43716,59212,282138,30513,831
     •Match figures inclusive of both Celtic League and Celtic Cup fixtures.
     *Match figures inclusive of both Pro14 League fixtures and a European Champions Cup playoff fixture.
     ‡Match figures include fixtures in which COVID-19 restrictions limited attendance, but exclude fixtures in which no spectators were allowed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
     †Only matches in which there was a reported attendance are included.

    Up to date as of the 2023–24 season.

    Key
     Record high
     Record low
    *Affected by the COVID-19 pandemic

    Current squad

    Ulster Rugby United Rugby Championship squad [a]

    Props

    Hookers

    Locks

    Back row

    Scrum-halves

    Fly-halves

    Centres

    Wings

    Fullbacks

    (c) denotes the team captain, Bold denotes internationally capped players.
    * denotes players qualified to play for Ireland on residency or dual nationality.
    ST denotes a short-term signing.
    Players and their allocated positions from the Ulster Rugby website. [142]
    1. ↑ Taking into account signings and departures head of 2024–25 season as listed on List of 2024–25 United Rugby Championship transfers.

    Academy squad

    Ulster Rugby academy squad

    Props

    • IRFU flag.svg Jack Boal (2)
    • IRFU flag.svg Jacob Boyd (2)
    • IRFU flag.svg Cameron Doak (2)

    Hookers

    Locks

    Back row

    • IRFU flag.svg Tom Brigg (2)
    • IRFU flag.svg James McKillop (1)
    • IRFU flag.svg Josh Stevens (2)
    • IRFU flag.svg Bryn Ward (1)

    Scrum-halves

    • IRFU flag.svg Clarke Logan (1)

    Fly-halves

    • IRFU flag.svg Jack Murphy (1)

    Centres

    • IRFU flag.svg Sam Berman (1)
    • IRFU flag.svg Wilhelm De Klerk (1)
    • IRFU flag.svg Jonathan Scott (1)

    Back three

    • IRFU flag.svg Ethan Graham (2)
    • IRFU flag.svg Lukas Kenny (2)
    • IRFU flag.svg Ben McFarlane (2)
    • IRFU flag.svg Rory Telfer (3)
    Number in brackets indicates players stage in the three-year academy cycle.
    * denotes players qualified to play for Ireland on residency or dual nationality.
    Players and their allocated positions from the Ulster Rugby website. [143]

      Staff

      PositionNameNationality
      Chief executive officerHugh McCaugheyIRFU flag.svg  Ireland
      Operations director Bryn Cunningham IRFU flag.svg  Ireland
      Head coach Richie Murphy IRFU flag.svg  Ireland
      Attack coach Dan Soper Flag of New Zealand.svg  New Zealand
      Defence coach Jonny Bell IRFU flag.svg  Ireland
      Forwards coachJimmy DuffyIRFU flag.svg  Ireland
      Academy manager Gavin Hogg IRFU flag.svg  Ireland
      Elite performance development officer Willie Faloon IRFU flag.svg  Ireland
      Elite performance development officer Neil Doak IRFU flag.svg  Ireland

      Results versus national teams

      Scores and results list Ulster's points tally first.
      DateOpponentLocationResultScoreNotes
      13 December 1902 Canadian Red Ensign (1868-1921).svg Canada Belfast Lost8–11Match Report [144]
      December 1912 Red Ensign of South Africa (1912-1951).svg South Africa Belfast Lost0–19 Match Report
      5 November 1924 Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost6–28 Tour Article
      December 1931 Flag of South Africa (1928-1982).svg South Africa Ravenhill, Belfast Lost3–30 Match Report
      30 November 1935 Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Draw3–3 Match Report
      1 December 1951 Flag of South Africa (1928-1982).svg South Africa Ravenhill, Belfast Lost5–27 Match Report
      2 January 1954 Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Draw5–5 Match Report
      30 November 1957 Flag of Australia (converted).svg Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost0–9 Match Report
      28 January 1961 Flag of South Africa (1928-1982).svg South Africa Belfast Lost6–19 Match Report
      25 January 1964 Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost5–24 Match Report
      29 November 1969 Flag of South Africa (1928-1982).svg South Africa Ravenhill, Belfast Draw0–0* Tour Article
      18 November 1972 Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost6–19 Match Report
      3 November 1973 Flag of Argentina.svg Argentina XV Ravenhill, Belfast Won23–13 Match Report
      16 November 1974 Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost15–30 Match Report
      15 November 1975 Flag of Australia (converted).svg Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost25–30 Match Report
      7 November 1978 Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost7–23 Match Report
      11 October 1980 Flag of Romania (1965-1989).svg Romania Ravenhill, Belfast Lost13–15 Match Report
      14 November 1981 Flag of Australia (converted).svg Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost6–12 Tour article
      14 November 1984 Flag of Australia (converted).svg Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Won15–13 Match Report
      23 October 1985 Flag of Fiji.svg Fiji Ravenhill, Belfast Won23–9 Match Report
      13 September 1986 Flag of Canada (Pantone).svg Canada Ravenhill, Belfast Won32-13Match Report [145]
      22 August 1987 Flag of Zimbabwe.svg Zimbabwe Bulawayo Won36-12Match Report [146]
      29 August 1987 Flag of Zimbabwe.svg Zimbabwe Harare Lost17-18Match report [147]
      2 November 1988 Flag of Samoa.svg Western Samoa Ravenhill, Belfast Won47–15 Match Report
      21 November 1989 Flag of New Zealand.svg New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast Lost3–21 Match Report
      4 September 1990 Flag of Spain.svg Spain Ravenhill, Belfast Won28–13Match Report [148]
      24 October 1992 Flag of Australia (converted).svg Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost11–35 Match Report
      16 November 1996 Flag of Australia (converted).svg Australia Ravenhill, Belfast Lost26–39 Match Report
      10 August 1998 Flag of Morocco.svg Morocco Ravenhill, Belfast Won50–5 Match Report
      10 November 2008 Flag of Portugal.svg Portugal Ravenhill, Belfast Won62–6 Match Report
      9 November 2018 Flag of Uruguay.svg Uruguay Ravenhill, Belfast Won21–5 Match Report
       *Match was cancelled by the Northern Irish government due to concerns that law and order could not be maintained with anti-apartheid demonstrations expected to take place. [149]

      Records against URC and European Cup opponents

      AgainstPlayedWonDrawnLost% Won
      Flag of Italy.svg Aironi 8800100.00%
      Flag of France.svg ASM Clermont Auvergne 950455.56%
      Flag of England.svg Bath 760185.71%
      Flag of Italy.svg Benetton†28242285.71%
      Flag of France.svg Biarritz 620433.33%
      Flag of France.svg Bordeaux 300300.00%
      Flag of Scotland.svg Border Reivers 8800100.00%
      Flag of France.svg Bourgoin 410325.00%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Bridgend 1100100.00%
      Flag of South Africa.svg Bulls 420250.00%
      Flag of France.svg CA Brive 10010.00%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Caerphilly 1100100.00%
      Flag of Scotland.svg Caledonia Reds 1100100.00%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Cardiff Blues 362211361.11%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Cardiff RFC 630350%
      Flag of France.svg Castres 2200100.00%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Celtic Warriors 2200100.00%
      Flag of South Africa.svg Cheetahs 421150%
      IRFU flag.svg Connacht* 47 3311370.21%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Dragons 392621166.67%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Ebbw Vale RFC 2200100.00%
      Flag of Scotland.svg Edinburgh 453111368.89%
      Flag of England.svg Exeter Chiefs 210150.00%
      Flag of Scotland.svg Glasgow Warriors 452412053.33%
      Flag of England.svg Gloucester 510420%
      Flag of England.svg Harlequins 960366.67%
      Flag of France.svg La Rochelle 410325%
      Flag of England.svg Leicester Tigers 1170463.64%
      IRFU flag.svg Leinster* 56 1234121.43%
      Flag of South Africa.svg Lions 430175%
      Flag of England.svg London Irish 210150.00%
      Flag of France.svg Montpellier 3300100.00%
      IRFU flag.svg Munster* 46 2122345.65%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Neath RFC 320166.67%
      Flag of England.svg Northampton Saints 850362.5%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Ospreys 422202052.38%
      Flag of France.svg Oyonnax 2200100.00%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Pontypridd 1100100.00%
      Flag of France.svg Racing 92 320166.67%
      Flag of England.svg Saracens 810712.5%
      Flag of England.svg Sale Sharks 210150%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Scarlets†482631954.17%
      Flag of South Africa.svg Sharks 210150%
      Flag of France.svg Stade Français 1150645.45%
      Flag of South Africa.svg Stormers 410325%
      Flag of South Africa.svg Southern Kings 5500100.00%
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Swansea RFC 420250.00%
      Flag of France.svg Toulon 20020.00%
      Flag of France.svg Toulouse 1561840%
      Flag of France.svg US Colomiers 1100100%
      Flag of England.svg Wasps 830560%
      Flag of Italy.svg Zebre 18160288.89%
      Total6383631825656.9%
       *Matches played as part of the Irish Interprovincial Rugby Championship, separate from Celtic League fixtures, are not included in this table.
       †Results do not include a match between the Benetton and Ulster declared a 0–0 draw due to the COVID-19 pandemic, nor do they include the cancelled Ulster vs Scarlets Rainbow Cup fixture in which Scarlets
      were awarded victory due to positive Covid tests in the Ulster squad. [150] [151]

      Updated as of 14 December 2024.

      Records against Irish Provinces (1946–present)

      AgainstPlayedWonDrawnLost% Won
      Flag of Connacht.svg Connacht 104 7842275%
      Flag of Leinster.svg Leinster 113 3866933.63%
      Flag of Munster.svg Munster 106 55104151.89%
      Total3231712013252.94%

      Correct as of 29 November 2024.

      Head coaches (professional era)

      As of 14 December 2024 [note 1] [note 2] [152]
      CoachSeason(s)GP*WDLWin %Loss %Championships / Notes
      IRFU flag.svg Brian Bloomfield† [153] [154] 1995/96740357.1%42.9%
      Flag of England.svg Tony Russ [155] [156] 1996/97720528.6%71.4%
      IRFU flag.svg Dave Haslett [157] 1997/98920722.2%77.8%
      IRFU flag.svg Harry Williams [158] 1998/99 – 2000/01411822143.9%51.2% European Cup (1998–99)
      Flag of South Africa.svg Alan Solomons [159] 2001/02 – 2003/04634122065.1%31.7% 2003-04 Celtic Cup
      IRFU flag.svg Mark McCall [160] 2004/05 – 2007/08 (mid-season)914634250.5%46.2% 2005-06 Celtic League
      Flag of Wales (1959-present).svg Steve Williams [161] 2007/08 (mid-season)820625%75%Interim
      Flag of Australia (converted).svg Matt Williams [162] 2007/08 (mid-season) – 2008/09371512140.5%56.8%
      IRFU flag.svg Brian McLaughlin [163] 2009/10 – 2011/12935423758.1%39.8%
      Flag of New Zealand.svg Mark Anscombe [164] 2012/13 – 2013/14694751768.1%24.6%
      Flag of Australia (converted).svg Les Kiss [165] 2014/15531160%20%Interim
      IRFU flag.svg Neil Doak [166] 2014/15 (mid-season) – 2016/17854823556.5%41.2%
      Flag of New Zealand.svg Jono Gibbes [167] 2017/18301721156.7%36.7%
      Flag of England.svg Dan McFarland [121] 2018/19 – 2023/24 (mid-season)1509235561.3%36.7%
      Flag of New Zealand.svg Dan Soper [168] 2023/24 (mid-season)1100100%0%Interim
      IRFU flag.svg Richie Murphy 2023/24 (mid-season) –19801142.1%57.9%
      Total1995 –7154002329255.9%40.8%
       *Games played are inclusive of matches played against touring international sides and friendlies against club opposition.
      †Bloomfield was Ulster coach from 1993 to 1995. However, only matches from the professional era (1995/96 season) are included in this table.

      Personnel honours and records

      Bold indicates active player

      All Competitions

      (correct as of 14 December 2024) [169] [170]

      European Rugby Champions Cup

      CategoryPlayerTotalsYears
      Tries Andrew Trimble 272004–2018
      Appearances Rory Best 752004–2019
      Points David Humphreys 5641996–2008

      (correct as of 10 December 2023) [170]

      United Rugby Championship

      CategoryPlayerTotalsYears
      Tries Craig Gilroy 582010–2023
      Appearances Darren Cave 1802007–2019
      Points John Cooney 8232017-
      Pens & Cons John Cooney 2992017-

      (correct as of 18 October 2024) [171]

      Team of the Year

      CompetitionIrish playersOverseas players
      2006–07 [172] — Flag of Australia (converted).svg Justin Harrison
      2007–08 [173] Tommy Bowe —
      2008–09 [174] ——
      2009–10 [175] ——
      2010–11 [176] — Flag of South Africa.svg Ruan Pienaar
      2011–12 [177] ——
      2012–13 [178] Luke Marshall Flag of New Zealand.svg Nick Williams
      2013–14 [179] Andrew Trimble Flag of South Africa.svg Johann Muller
      2014–15 [180] Craig Gilroy, Rory Best Flag of South Africa.svg Franco van der Merwe
      2015–16 [181] Craig Gilroy (2)—
      2016–17 [182] — Flag of South Africa.svg Ruan Pienaar (2), Flag of New Zealand.svg Charles Piutau
      2017–18 [183] John Cooney —
      2018–19 [184] John Cooney (2), Stuart McCloskey —
      2019–20 [185] John Cooney (3), Stuart McCloskey (2)—
      2020–21 [186] John Cooney (4), Michael Lowry, Eric O'Sullivan Flag of South Africa.svg Marcell Coetzee
      2021–22 [187] James Hume, Nick Timoney —
      2022–23 [188] ——
      2023–24 [189] John Cooney (5)—

      Pro14 Player of the Year

      CompetitionIrish playersOverseas players
      2010–11 [190] — Flag of South Africa.svg Ruan Pienaar
      2012–13 [191] — Flag of New Zealand.svg Nick Williams
      2016–17 [182] — Flag of New Zealand.svg Charles Piutau
      2020–21 [192] — Flag of South Africa.svg Marcell Coetzee

      Pro14 Individual Awards

      CategoryPlayerSeasonTotal
      Top Try Scorer Tommy Bowe (Joint) 2005–06 10
      Craig Gilroy (Joint) 2015–16 10
      Marcell Coetzee (Joint) 2020–21 9
      Top Point Scorer David Humphreys 2001–02 122
      John Cooney 2017–18 175
      John Cooney (2) (Joint) 2020–21 113
      Young Player of the Year Luke Marshall 2012–13 N/A
      Try of the Season Andrew Trimble (Ulster vs Connacht) 2012–13 N/A
      Craig Gilroy (Ulster vs Scarlets) 2014–15 N/A
      Ruan Pienaar (Ulster vs Glasgow Warriors) 2016–17 N/A

      Pro14 Team Awards

      British & Irish Lions

      The following Ulster players, in addition to representing Ireland, have also represented the British & Irish Lions. [193]

      Note: Phillip Matthews played for the Lions in their victory against France in Paris. The game formed part of the celebrations of the bi-centennial of the French Revolution, but did not count as a "formal" Lions international.

      Ulster Rugby Awards

      SeasonPlayer of
      the Year      		Personality
      of the Year      		Supporters' Club
      Player of the Year      		Young Player
      of the Year      		Rugby Writers'
      Player of the Year
      1997–98 [194] Andy Ward Andy Ward
      1998–99 [195] Simon Mason David Humphreys
      1999–2000 [196] Tony McWhirter David Humphreys (2)
      2000–01 [197] Tyrone Howe Gary Longwell Tyrone Howe
      2001–02 [198] David Humphreys Paddy Wallace David Humphreys
      2002–03 [199] Bryn Cunningham Allen Clarke Robbi Kempson
      2003–04 [200] Roger Wilson Alan Solomons Andy Ward
      2004–05 [201] Neil Best Tommy Bowe Kieran Campbell
      2005–06 [202] Andrew Trimble Justin Harrison Stephen Ferris
      2006–07 [23] Roger Wilson (2) David Humphreys (3) David Pollock
      2007–08 [26] Tommy Bowe Rory Best Niall O'Connor
      2008–09 [32] Rory Best Stephen Ferris Darren Cave Stephen Ferris
      2009–10 [36] Andrew Trimble (2) Chris Henry Chris Henry Jamie Smith Chris Henry
      2010–11 [43] Ruan Pienaar Johann Muller Johann Muller Nevin Spence
      2011–12 [49] Chris Henry Stephen Ferris (2) Pedrie Wannenburg Craig Gilroy
      2012–13 [58] Andrew Trimble (3) Nevin Spence Andrew Trimble Iain Henderson
      2013–14 [61] Andrew Trimble (4) Johann Muller Andrew Trimble (2) Paddy Jackson Andrew Trimble
      2014–15 [70] Craig Gilroy Rory Best (2) Darren Cave Stuart McCloskey Craig Gilroy
      2015–16 [72] Stuart McCloskey Nick Williams Paddy Jackson Kyle McCall Franco van der Merwe
      2016–17 [80] Charles Piutau Ruan Pienaar Ruan Pienaar Jacob Stockdale Sean Reidy
      2017–18 [93] John Cooney Paul Marshall John Cooney Nick Timoney John Cooney
      2018–19 [103] Stuart McCloskey (2) Rory Best (3) Stuart McCloskey Eric O'Sullivan Marcell Coetzee
      2019–20 [108] John Cooney (2) Marcell Coetzee Marcell Coetzee Tom O'Toole Marcell Coetzee (2)
      2020–21 [111] Alan O'Connor Iain Henderson John Cooney (2) James Hume Nick Timoney
      2021–22 [112] James Hume Ashleigh Orchard Michael Lowry Ethan McIlroy James Hume
      2022–23 [203] Tom Stewart Tom Stewart Stewart Moore Stuart McCloskey
      2023–24 [204] David McCann Luke Marshall John Cooney (3) Harry Sheridan David McCann

      Club rugby in Ulster

      The IRFU Ulster Branch oversees a pyramid of club rugby competitions in Ulster.

      Senior level

      Ulster currently has thirteen senior rugby clubs, which compete in the All-Ireland League, the Ulster Rugby Premiership, the Ulster Senior Cup and the Ulster Senior Shield. They are:

      Ballynahinch are currently the highest ranked in the All-Ireland League, finishing fifth in Division 1A in 2023–24. [205] They are holders of the 2023-24 Ulster Rugby Premiership, having won it three seasons in a row. [206] Instonians are the holders of the 2023-24 Ulster Senior Cup. [207]

      Ballyclare were promoted to senior level for the first time in 2023 after finishing top of the 2022-23 Ulster Rugby Championship and winning playoffs against Connacht junior champions Creggs and Leinster League champions Monkstown. [208] [209]

      Junior level

      The second tier includes the three divisions of the Ulster Rugby Championship, and the 2nd XV League. Clubs in the Championship Division 1, and some of the clubs in the Second XV league, also compete in the Ulster Junior Cup. Clubs in the Championship Division 2, and some of the clubs in the Second XV league, compete in the Ulster Junior Shield. Clubs in the Championship Division 3 also compete in the Gordon West Cup and Gordon West Plate. Clubs in all the tier 2 divisions also compete in the McCrea Cup and the Ulster Towns Cup.

      The third tier contains the two divisions of the Ulster Provincial Premiership, the Crawford Cup and the Crawford Plate.

      The fourth tier consists of three divisions of the Provincial Regional - North, East 1 and East 2. These clubs also compete in the Forster Cup and the Forster Plate.

      The fifth tier consists of five divisions: Regional North, Regional South divisions 1 and 2, and Regional East divisions 1 and 2. Clubs at this level also compete in the McCambley Cup and the Butler Shield. [210]

      See also

      Notes

      1. ↑ Original research sourced from https://www.ulsterrugby.com/fixtures-results/
      2. ↑ "Statistics".

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      The 2018–19 season was Ulster's 25th season since the advent of professionalism in rugby union, and Dan McFarland's first season as head coach. Rory Best was captain. They competed in the Pro14, making the semi-finals, and the European Rugby Champions Cup, making the quarter-finals.

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      The 2016–17 season was Ulster's 23rd season since the advent of professionalism in rugby union, and the third under Director of Rugby Les Kiss and head coach Neil Doak. They completed in the European Rugby Champions Cup and the final season of the Pro12 before it became the Pro14 with the addition of two teams from South Africa.

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      The 2001–02 season was Ulster Rugby's seventh under professionalism, and their first under head coach Alan Solomons. They competed in the Heineken Cup, the IRFU Interprovincial Championship, and the inaugural Celtic League. Flanker Andy Ward was captain.

      The 2003–04 season was Ulster Rugby's ninth under professionalism, and their third under head coach Alan Solomons. They competed in the Heineken Cup, the Celtic League and the inaugural Celtic Cup.

      The 2004–05 season was Ulster Rugby's tenth under professionalism, and their first under head coach Mark McCall. They competed in the Heineken Cup, the Celtic League and the Celtic Cup.

      In the 2005–06 season, Ulster were Celtic League champions for the first time. This was their eleventh season under professionalism, and their second under head coach Mark McCall. They also competed in the Heineken Cup.

      The 2006–07 Ulster Rugby season was Ulster's 13th season since the advent of professionalism in rugby union, and their third under head coach Mark McCall. They competed in the Heineken Cup and the Celtic League.

      References

      1. ↑ Peter, Richard (1999). The Origins and Development of Football in Ireland. Belfast: Ulster Historical Foundation. p. 6. ISBN   0-901905-93-3.
      2. ↑ "History of the Irish Rugby Football Union". Irish Rugby . Retrieved 22 April 2018.
      3. 1 2 "Connacht Rugby". Galway Advertiser . 28 April 2016. Retrieved 22 April 2018.
      4. ↑ "Ray McLoughlin - Connacht Rugby Legend". Connacht Rugby Supporters. 25 March 2006. Retrieved 31 January 2018.
      5. ↑ Peter McMullan, "Ken Armstrong to coach Ulster XV", Belfast Telegraph, 17 June 1969
      6. ↑ John Redmond, "Armstrong Gives Up The Reins of Ulster Rugby", Irish Press, 24 December 1971
      7. ↑ "Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 442". Irish Rugby . Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 7 January 2018.
      8. ↑ "Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 443". Irish Rugby . Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 7 January 2018.
      9. ↑ "Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 444". Irish Rugby . Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 7 January 2018.
      10. ↑ "How The Irish Provinces Moulded History With Modernity To Leave The Welsh Regions Trailing So Far Behind", Dai Sport, 21 January 2019
      11. ↑ "European Rugby Cup : History". ERC. Archived from the original on 8 February 2007. Retrieved 21 March 2007.
      12. ↑ "Rugby Union: European Cup final - Ulster take a red-carpet ride". The Independent . 31 January 1999. Retrieved 22 April 2018.
      13. ↑ "Celtic League gets green light to kick off in August", Evening Herald, 31 May 2001
      14. ↑ "Alan Solomons Director of Rugby". Worcester Warriors. Retrieved 24 September 2021.
      15. ↑ Gavin Mairs, "Wisdom of Solomons in finest hour", Belfast Telegraph, 12 January 2004
      16. ↑ "Ulster hold on for victory", BBC Sport, 20 December 2003
      17. ↑ "McCall gets call to coach Ulster", The Irish Times, 23 March 2004
      18. ↑ "Clarke named assistant coach at Ulster", ESPN, 8 April 2004
      19. ↑ "Gloucester lose their foothold in Belfast bog". The Guardian. 8 January 2005. Retrieved 24 September 2021.
      20. ↑ "Ulster 19 - 10 Saracens". The Guardian. 10 December 2005. Retrieved 24 September 2021.
      21. ↑ "Humphreys drop snatches title for Ulster", Pro12 Rugby, 26 May 2006
      22. ↑ Tom Glover, "Ulster 30 Toulouse 3: Humphreys master of the guillotine", The Independent, 22 October 2006
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