Banbridge Rugby Football Club 100th anniversary
Tabled 12 January 2026 by Carla Lockhart
That this House congratulates Banbridge Rugby Football Club on the occasion of its 100th anniversary; notes that the club was founded in 1926 and first took to the field in a fixture against Newry, beginning a century of rugby heritage in the Banbridge area; recognises the significant contribution the club has made to sporting, social and community life in Banbridge and the wider region through its men’s, women’s, youth and inclusive teams; further recognises the quality of players developed by the club over many decades, including former British and Irish Lion, Ulster and Ireland captain Rory Best; welcomes the programme of centenary celebrations taking place throughout 2026, including commemorative matches and community events that honour the club’s proud history; further welcomes the support provided through UK Government Levelling Up Fund grants, which has contributed towards new and improved changing facilities to better support players, including women and girls, at Rifle Park; commends the volunteers, players and supporters who have sustained the club over the past century; and wishes Banbridge Rugby Football Club every success as it enters its second hundred years.