Fine win for Mullingar U15s after long trip to Carlingford

Mullingar RFC U15 rugby team had a big game far from home in Carlingford. It took them two hours to get there, a long trip for a game, but they were ready and excited.

This team have been playing better and better together. They all share a big dream: to win the Leinster Cup. They believe they can do it, and after this game, they believe it even more.

In Carlingford, they played really well and won the game. This win was special. It showed that all their hard work and team spirit were paying off. They played as one team, helping each other and playing hard.

After their win, they had the long drive home. But it was a happy trip back. They talked and laughed, already thinking about their next games. They know the next few weeks will be important. But they’re ready to try their best to make their big dream come true.

Community and commitment through referee Paul Rock’s eyes

Mullingar Rugby Club’s own Paul Rock, serving as both a referee and coordinator, shares insights into his journey since 2008, underlining the vibrant community and the evolving role of a rugby referee. Rock’s career highlights extend beyond the excitement of the pitch, focusing on the deep-rooted friendships and the strong sense of community within the club. “Finals are significant,” Paul admits, “but the camaraderie and the connections I’ve made here truly stand out.”

Despite the increasing popularity of rugby in the local area, which has brought about more vocal supporters, Paul views this change positively. “It shows the game’s growth and the passion of our community,” he says, reflecting on the shifting dynamics and the impact on referees. This heightened enthusiasm, according to Paul, is a testament to rugby’s expanding reach.

Paul’s unique perspective on the game, honed over years of experience, has him watching matches differently from most. “I find myself focusing on the referee, anticipating their decisions,” he reveals, highlighting a professional curiosity and dedication to his role. Earlier in his career, the MRFC referee appreciated officiating games outside Mullingar for the undivided focus it allowed him. However, as time passed, local ties have become less of a distraction, allowing him to fully immerse in the game, irrespective of the location.

The call for new referees is a constant at Mullingar Rugby Club, with Paul emphasising the role’s benefits. “It’s not just about staying physically active; it’s about being part of something larger, the friendships you form here last a lifetime,” he encourages.

Paul’s commitment to excellence extends to continuous training, including participation in national programmes and a pioneering mentoring scheme now adopted nationally. This dedication to improvement and professional development underscores the club’s forward-thinking approach. Although currently not utilising video analysis, it’s a tool Rock believes could further enhance referees’ performance evaluation in the future.

Paul Rock’s journey is a testament to the enduring spirit and camaraderie of Mullingar Rugby Club, spotlighting the essential role referees play in the sport’s fabric. His story encourages others to join, contribute, and thrive within the rugby community, underlining the blend of fitness, friendship, and personal growth that officiating offers.

Celebrating women in sport: A spotlight on Mullingar RFC’s initiatives

This week marks a significant milestone in the world of sports, particularly for us at Mullingar Rugby Club, as we join hands with Leinster Rugby to celebrate Women in Sport week. It’s a time to honour, acknowledge, and amplify the voices and achievements of women in the realm of rugby—a sport that thrives on inclusivity, teamwork, and resilience. As we roll out our participation in the #WomenofLeinsterRugby competition, it’s a moment of pride for us to shine a spotlight on the incredible women who are an integral part of our club.

The Power of Visibility

The journey of women in rugby is one of inspiring stories, relentless dedication, and groundbreaking achievements. From the grassroots level to the international stage, the growth and success of women’s rugby are undeniable. With up to 4,000 participants between minis and U18 levels across Leinster, the future of women’s rugby looks brighter than ever. Mullingar Rugby Club is committed to promoting these stories of hard work, passion, and success through our social media platforms. By sharing the tales of our female players, coaches, volunteers, and supporters, we aim to inspire the next generation and encourage more women and girls to take up the sport.

Social Media Campaign: #WomenofLeinsterRugby #WomenofMRFC

Our social media campaign for the week is designed to do just that—celebrate the women of Mullingar Rugby Club. Each post, adorned with the hashtag #WomenofLeinsterRugby, is not just a submission into a competition for fantastic prizes; it’s a declaration of our pride and our commitment to women in sport. These posts will highlight the achievements, the dedication, and the spirit of our female members, showcasing to the world the pivotal role they play in the growth and success of rugby in our community.

Beyond the Competition

While the #WomenofLeinsterRugby competition is a fantastic opportunity to win prizes such as a Leinster Rugby Women’s Training Experience, places on the Girl’s Residential School of Excellence Camp, and tickets to the Women’s Six Nations fixtures, our participation transcends these tangible rewards. It’s about creating a platform for recognition, fostering an environment of support and empowerment, and most importantly, celebrating the diversity and strength that women bring to the sport of rugby.

In conclusion, Women in Sport week is not just a campaign for us at Mullingar Rugby Club; it’s a reflection of our ethos, our values, and our unwavering support for the incredible women in our club and in the wider community of rugby. Let’s celebrate the achievements, support the journey, and inspire the future of women in rugby together.

Here’s to the women of Mullingar Rugby Club and to women in sport everywhere—may your strength, dedication, and passion continue to break barriers and set new standards.

Mullingar Rugby’s U10 Girls Shine in Athlone Blitz

The U10 girls’ team from Mullingar Rugby Football Club (MRFC) made a remarkable appearance at the recent rugby blitz in Athlone, hosted by Buccaneers RFC. With a squad of 15 eager players, MRFC demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship, participating in 10-a-side games alongside teams from Buccs and Gregg’s RFC (Castleray).

In a unique twist, Mullingar fielded two teams: one exclusively comprising Mullingar players and another mixed team with players from Gregg’s. Each team engaged in three games, showcasing not just their rugby skills but a commendable level of teamwork, communication, and, most importantly, fun.

A highlight of the event was the integration of all Mullingar girls into the mixed team for at least one game, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration among the young athletes.

The display of great teamwork, coupled with impressive rugby skills, was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the players and their coaches.

The club extends its heartfelt thanks to Buccaneers RFC for hosting a fantastic event that not only provided a platform for competitive play but also emphasized the values of friendship and respect within the rugby community. The morning was a great success, leaving players and supporters alike looking forward to future engagements on the rugby field.

Kudos to all the young athletes for their outstanding performance and to everyone who contributed to making the blitz a memorable experience for our U10 girls’ team. Here’s to many more successes on and off the pitch.