MY CLUB: MALONE RFC
Gibson Park Avenue,
Cregagh Road,
Belfast,
Antrim
www.malone-rfc.com
By DAIRE WALSH
THE battle for survival in Division 1B of the Ulster Bank League promises to be a compelling one, with local rivals Malone and Belfast Harlequins amongst the sides currently scrapping to move out of the bottom five.
Malone RFC President Colin McCullagh revealed that there is a certain sense of disappointment within the squad about their performances to date, but was eager to stress that they are focused on retaining their present status in the league.
“They would have been sort of disappointed with some of the results this year. Our main focus now is to stay in 1B. We’re lying sixth (at present), but it’s very tight,” remarked McCullagh.
“All the teams below us are on the same number of points or just one or two points below us. Our main focus for the rest of the season is to basically consolidate ourselves in 1B, and then we can think of the future next season.”
McCullagh first became involved with Malone as a player in the late 1970s, before later progressing to the role of youth coach. His 12-month term as club President comes to an end in May, but until then, he will be kept busy in an ever-demanding role.
“I played there in the late ‘70s, early ‘80s. I stopped playing when I was young, but then I was back. I was youth coach there from about ’98 until 2005.
“I took over the presidency at the end of last May. I have been busy this year and really enjoying it. Being the President of the club is an honorary position, and it’s a year’s posting. I’ve got a good vice-president who works alongside me.
“He’ll take over at the end of May, the senior vice-president. Each year, we have a president, senior vice-president and a junior vice-president.”
Malone are somewhat unique amongst clubs in Belfast, as they are one of the few in the city who haven’t chosen to amalgamate with a neighbouring club. McCullagh feels that this has helped the Gibson Park men to hold on to their identity, and has also led to a vibrant atmosphere in recent years.
“We’ve always kept our own identity. I know other clubs have merged, but no, we’ve always been lucky to keep our own identity. The club is very vibrant at the moment. Last year, through grants, we got new changing rooms and new shower facilities.
“As far as the club itself is concerned, every Saturday morning it’s full of mini rugby. A guy called Barry Leacock looks after the mini rugby. We’ve also got the youth from Under-12 up to Under-18. Two guys at the moment are doing very good work, Johnny Murray and John Neary. They’re looking after the Women’s rugby. Then we’ve got five senior teams as well,” he added.