Irish Rugby Football Union Accounts & Statistics 2004/2005
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Irish Rugby Football Union Accounts & Statistics 2004/2005
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Office Bearers and Committee
President Branch Representative Members Financial Controller
B.T. Keogh F. Crowley F. MacLoughlin C. O’Brien
C. Fitzgerald G. Quaid
Senior Vice President W.B. Glynn J.F. Smith Director of Commercial and Marketing
D.A. Crawford S.R. Hilditch C. Watson P. Power
L.P. Magee
Junior Vice President Director of Human Resources
P.J. Boyle International Rugby Board M. Dowling
Representatives
Hon. Treasurer N.A. Murphy P.J. Boyle Rugby Administrator
J.P. Lyons G. Spotswood
Trustees
Chairman of Management Committee A.R. Dawson T.J. Kiernan National Coach
J.D. Hussey W.S.H. Lavery Dr. S. Millar E. O’Sullivan
Immediate Past President Chief Executive National Manager
J.K. Quilligan P.R. Browne B. O’Brien
Committee Director of Corporate Services Assistant Coach
J.R. Callaghan R.P. McConkey M.P. Murphy N. O’Donovan
P. Fitzgerald C.C. Powell
D.V. Healy P. Whelan (co-opted) Director of Rugby Communications and Media Manager
T.H.N. Jackson E. Wigglesworth K. Richardson
Director of Medical Services Director of Referee Development Provincial Academy Managers
Dr. C. McCarthy O.E. Doyle H. Adams (M) M. Fields (U)
N. Carolan (C) C. McEntee (L)
National Fitness Director National Coach Development Manager
Dr. L. Hennessy S.J. Aboud Rugby Development Officers
M. Black M. Hickey
Fitness Programme Manager National Coach Development Officer D. Callaghan J. Lacey
I. Sherwin C. Moran C. Carroll D. Maybury
E. Collins R. Murphy
Facilities Manager National Youth Development Manager J. Duffy D. Suffern
D. O’Brien H. Kruger D. Fassbender
Match Manager National Schools Development Manager Referee Development Officers
G. Carmody J.F. Murphy D. Keane D. McHugh
Office Manager Provincial Development Managers
L. Hart A. Brown (U) P. Lawlor (L)
T. Conneely (C) U. O’Callaghan (M)
Ticket Office Manager
S. Hickey Provincial Directors of Coaching
M. Bradley (C) D. Kidney (L)
National Squad Administrator A. Gaffney (M) M. McCall (U)
J. Breslin
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Standing Committees and
Sub Committees 2004/2005
Management Finance Charitable Trust
J.D. Hussey, B.T. Keogh, J.P. Lyons, N.A. J.P. Lyons, D.A. Crawford, S.R. Hilditch, J.F. Smith, J.R. Callaghan, G.C. Quaid,
Murphy, T.H.N. Jackson, D.V. Healy, P.J. R.P. McConkey, P.J. Boyle, W.B. Glynn, C. Fitzgerald, P. Fitzgerald, R. Boston, J.B.
Boyle, P. Fitzgerald, P.R. Browne and D.A. F. Crowley, P. Whelan, P.R. Browne, M. Stevenson, S.O. Campbell, P.F. Madigan, Dr.
Crawford (co-opted). Murphy, C. O’Brien and L. Quinn. L.N. O’Mahony, J.E. Gallagher, M.A. Quinn,
T. Ringland, W. Dawson, Dr. C. Beirne and
Representative Game Commercial and Marketing E. Feely.
T.H.N. Jackson, N.A. Murphy, C. Watson, P. Fitzgerald, J.P. Lyons, C. Fitzgerald,
R.P. McConkey, P.J. Boyle, W.B. Glynn, P. J.F. Smith, J.R. Callaghan, P.R. Browne, Discipline
Whelan, P.R. Browne, E. Wigglesworth, M. Murphy, P. Power, K. Richardson and P.J. Boyle and G.C. Spotswood.
G.C. Spotswood, E. O’Sullivan, M. Dowling J. Redmond.
and B. McLoughlin. Exiles
Academy D.A. Crawford and F. MacLoughlin.
Domestic Game P. Whelan, E. Wigglesworth, E. O’Sullivan
D.V. Healy, J.R. Callaghan, G.C. Quaid, and M. McDermott. Medical
C.C. Powell, F. Crowley, J.F. Smith, L.P. W.B. Glynn, G.C. Spotswood, Dr. L.
Magee, C. Fitzgerald, G.C. Spotswood and Hennessy, Dr. M. Molloy, Dr. W. Rainey,
E. Wigglesworth. Dr. B. O'Driscoll, Dr. H. Beauchamp, Dr. C.
McCarthy and Dr. W. O’Flynn.
Referees Youth All Ireland League Working Party
J.R. Callaghan, T. Aplin, J. Irvine, B. Smith, J.R. Callaghan, J.F. Smith, G.C. Quaid, P. D.V. Healy, F. Crowley, G.C. Spotswood,
D. Templeton and O.E. Doyle. Fitzgerald, L. Magee, H. Kruger, D. Eakin, G. Black and E. Wigglesworth.
W. Gribben, B. Mescal, H. Woodhouse, W.
Representative Team Appointments Doran and J. Best. Six Nations Representatives
N.A. Murphy, T.H.N. Jackson, P. Whelan, N.A. Murphy and P.J. Boyle.
P.R. Browne and E. Wigglesworth. Player Advisory Group
T.H.N. Jackson, P. Whelan, J.D. Hussey, E.R.C. Representatives
Schools P.R. Browne, E. Wigglesworth, E. O’Sullivan P. Whelan and P.J. Boyle.
C.C. Powell, P. Fitzgerald, G. Quaid, J.F. and M. Dowling.
Smith, L. Magee, B. Derrane, M. Foley, Fr. Celtic League Representatives
J. Gough, D. Harty, S. Huey, B. McGonigle, AIB League J.D. Hussey and P.R. Browne.
F. Mulligan, J. Murphy, K. Patton and P. F. Crowley, O. Allen, L. Galvin, Dr.
Rossiter. W.A. Mulcahy, D. Workman and G.C.
Spotswood.
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President’s Report
The expectation of Irish rugby at all levels has Munster, deprived of a home draw by work force who also give so much of their
now reached new heights. A season where Harlequins, put the heart back into Irish time freely, is what makes Irish rugby
we won six out of ten internationals defeating rugby by their performance against Biarritz. so successful. In my year of Presidency
South Africa and England, two teams Leinster The selection of Brian O'Driscoll as Captain I tried to put the word enjoyment back
and Munster qualifying for the European Cup of the Lions is a special honour not only to into tasks we have to deal with, and if at
quarter final and Connacht reaching the semi Brian but also to Irish rugby, with the well times this may have been difficult I hope
final of the European Challenge Cup would deserved selection of a record number of his everybody enjoyed it.
in years gone past be considered a wonderful team mates a massive boast to Irish rugby.
season. The expectation of Irish rugby has To Eddie as coach, Mike Ford, Dr. Gary The work of the provinces in the
rightly set new targets and it is important that we O’Driscoll and David McHugh we wish them advancement of the game is immense at
strive to not only achieve but to exceed them. a successful tour. As President I would like all levels and I would like to thank the
to thank Eddie, Brian O'Driscoll and Brian Presidents and their Committees for their
The National team were unlucky with injury O'Brien for including me so much - it was continual support of Irish rugby. As a
to key players which made final selection very special and one of the highlights for me visitor they made me so welcome and part
difficult. That being said, it was a wonderful in the year as President. of their year - it was easy to travel and meet
season for Eddie O'Sullivan, his management with them. To Paddy, Niall, Matt and Harry
and players. The input of Brian O'Brien The work of the Committee and the work very many thanks. Irish rugby is indeed
who has given so much to Irish rugby as of the Management Committee under lucky to have so many committed people
a player, a selector and manager can not the chairmanship of John Hussey and at all levels. As I said during the year, the
be overstated over the past years. He has the various chairmen is enormous. No commitment of the volunteers together
made a major contribution and we would one will realise the time and commitment with the commitment of the professional
all like to thank him and wish him every of these elected people that, combined people makes Irish rugby very special - long
success. with a loyal and committed professional may it continue.
The selection of Brian O’Driscoll as
Captain of the Lions is a special honour
not only to Brian but also to Irish rugby,
with the well deserved selection of
a record number of his team mates a
massive boast to Irish rugby.
B.T. Keogh
The continual growth and exposure of the game in addition to the awareness that ordinary people now have towards rugby’s decent image has meant that many parents are steering their children towards a game that values respect, discipline and sportsmanship. We must continue to foster this spirit within our game. There is still a great amount of work to be done but I am confident we have the structures and people in place to consolidate what we have achieved and to move forward in the future. In my year of office the help and guidance given to me by the Chief Executive, Philip Browne, together with his staff has been invaluable and made the year as President very easy for me. To my own Officers and Committee it has been very special for me to have been President of a wonderful rugby union and to know that I had so many friends around me. I really enjoyed it. Thanks.
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Honorary Treasurer’s Report
Once again it is my privilege to present continued to enjoy healthy match attendances accounts show how money has been spent in
to you the Union’s annual accounts for due in no small part to the efforts of all involved this area. In addition to the direct and indirect
the season 2004/05. As can be seen the in the Branches and professional team set-ups. funding of the grassroots game already taking
Union has once again suffered a significant place, the Union is currently exploring new
deficit but it is important to examine the You will notice that the format of the Union’s initiatives to assist clubs and schools and I
circumstances underlying that deficit and to accounts has changed in order to more clearly would like to take this opportunity to thank
consider the outlook for future years. attribute the various strands of income and D.C. Glass and those on his working party for
expenditure in line with the key areas set their considerable efforts in this area.
The Union’s Strategic Plan identified a number out in the Strategic Plan. This revised format
of key investment areas and resources have makes it easier to see the dividend being Progress towards the construction of
been applied to these areas in a cost effective generated by the professional game for the a national stadium is to be welcomed
way with a number of key appointments benefit of the grassroots game. It is very not least because of the greater
having been made. Credit must be given important that the Union get the balance certainty it provides in respect of future
to the volunteers and professional staff for right between investment in the professional financial planning. The Strategic Plan
keeping the Union’s costs at the level reported game and investment in the domestic game also identified the need to up-grade
in the accounts whilst managing to increase and one should be cognisant that whilst a the facilities at provincial grounds and
the revenues generated. Season 2005/06 reduction in investment in the professional this will require significant financial
will see a significant increase in television and game may produce a short term increase in the investment by both Union and provinces.
commercial revenues which will go some way professional dividend this benefit may well be This planning process is being assessed
towards alleviating the Union’s deficit whilst the eliminated as the revenue-earning potential of and monitored by the Facilities Working
possibility of new and enhanced competitions the professional game diminishes due to lack Party and I would take this opportunity to
for our provinces may also result an improved of resources. The domestic game is of critical thank them for their hard work over the
financial position for the Union. The provinces importance for the future of the Union and the last twelve months.
Credit must be given to the volunteers
and professional staff for keeping the
Union’s costs at the level reported
in the accounts whilst managing to
increase the revenues generated.
J.P. LyonsThe Union’s cash position at over _17m and will thus remain a fundamental part of future and the Union is also required to make
together with the substantial properties and the Union’s assistance to clubs. a very substantial financial investment in this
long term investments held by the Union project. Thus it may be that the Union will
contribute to a healthy balance sheet. The high creditor balance in the accounts not be able to afford to fund deficits up to this
However, I would draw your attention to the reflects amongst other things the early receipt time and if this is the case there will be some
Ten Year Ticket fund in the accounts. This of the annual grant from the Irish Sports Council very difficult financial decisions ahead for the
effectively represents a future claim on the and it is important that all are aware of the Union which may not be to the liking of all
financial assets of the Union and as such the generous financial support provided by the constituents. Having said that it is to be hoped
Union must be careful not to spend more Council which this year amounted to some that the Union will not have to compromise
of the funds raised through Ten Year Ticket _3.5m. Also included in creditors are significant on the key aspects of the Strategic Plan which
sales on non-capital items than is amortised deposits received in respect of the latest Ten has already delivered so much success on and
each year. Because of the deficits suffered Year Ticket renewal which at time of printing I off the field.
in recent years the Union has spent more am pleased to report is going very well.
than this annual amortisation and this may In conclusion, I would like to thank my fellow
put a constraint on spending in future years if As I mentioned earlier, the Union can look Committee members for their invaluable
surpluses are not generated. forward with some confidence to increased support during the year, and in particular,
revenues next year. However, as other Unions I would take this opportunity to thank the
I would also draw your attention to the club and clubs will also benefit from many of these Trustees of the I.R.F.U. for their considered
loans in the balance sheet. This loan scheme increases, part of the Union’s gain may be lost advice and assistance over this last and indeed
has been in operation since the early 1990s through the increased costs caused by this previous years. Finally, I wish to acknowledge
and has assisted many clubs with a variety financial strengthening of our competitors in the considerable efforts of volunteers in all
of capital projects. Because it is a loan the market. The financial benefits from the areas of the game and I look forward to
scheme the fund is constantly regenerated national stadium are still some way into the working together with you in the future.10
Chief Executive’s Report
The 2004/05 season has been marked by make it difficult for us to compete at this level to engage with Branches and clubs to draw
significant challenges both on and off the unless we are clever in our use of these limited on a wider body of expertise and resources.
pitch. The National team performed well with resources. The need to ensure the continued The needs of the club game and the initiatives
an excellent permanent tsb autumn series in development of quality Irish players at required to address these needs have been
which both South Africa and Argentina were Heineken Cup and international level is now collectively identified across all four Branches
beaten. However, this success was tinged a priority and the imminent appointment of and the I.R.F.U. must now move forward in
with disappointment that the Grand Slam a High Performance Manager to co-ordinate delivering these initiatives to support the club
and Championship eluded us once again. this activity is essential. Without an efficient and schools game. An organisational review
The provincial teams held their own with and effective high performance programme of the I.R.F.U. professional staff structures has
Leinster and Munster reaching the Heineken to identify talent and to deliver both skills resulted in some reorganisation to ensure that
Cup quarter finals and Connacht reaching and conditioning programmes, we stand to this focus on the club game is maintained.
the semi final in the European Challenge fall behind the competitive standards being The appointment of a Domestic Game
Cup. However, the challenge on the pitch set elsewhere in Europe and in the southern Manager with the responsibility of managing
for Irish rugby is now very clear to see. The hemisphere. the Rugby Department resources in terms
French clubs, with substantial resources in of the club game and game development in
many of their top clubs, have now taken the On the domestic game front the Union has general is significant as is the appointment
Heineken Cup to heart and we must ensure placed a significant emphasis on addressing of a Club Development Manager in each
that both the French and English clubs do the issues that face the club game. These province with their focus on supporting and
not open up a gap in performance beyond revolve around player recruitment and developing the club structures.
the Irish provincial teams. Any widening gap retention policies and club development
could inevitably be reflected in international including finance, facilities, administration Finance continues to be a challenge and the
team performances. The limiting resources and volunteerism. The first phase of the Hon. Treasurer’s report outlines the issues in
of finance and players within Irish rugby will implementation of the Strategic Plan has been some detail. Financing the sport at amateur
The balance between investment in
the professional game and the surplus
generated by it needs to be carefully
maintained as this is the premise on
which our financial model depends.
P.R. Browneand professional level from a position of an schools game and the aim would be to ensure A formal agreement between the I.R.F.U., the on-going annual deficit is not sustainable and that there is a clear dividend delivered by the F.A.I. and the Government was concluded the only reason why we can embark on this professional team in each province to its Branch in respect of the _191m grant aid to be course is the prospect of a new stadium with administration for this purpose. provided by Government to this project. sufficient revenue generating potential being The Government’s interests in the project completed at Lansdowne Road as soon as As outlined above the redevelopment of are looked after by a Steering Committee possible. The professional game is seen by Lansdowne Road is an integral part of our chaired by the Secretary General of the some as a drain on the financial resources of financial and strategic planning. In the last Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism and Irish rugby – the reality is that the professional twelve months there has been significant which consists of members from the I.R.F.U., game provides the operating surplus that funds work behind the scenes in relation to the F.A.I., Office of Public Works, Department of I.R.F.U. investment in the club and schools redevelopment project for Lansdowne Finance and Department of Arts, Sport and game. The balance between investment in the Road. A joint venture company has been Tourism. professional game and the surplus generated established with the F.A.I. which will be by it needs to be carefully maintained as this responsible for firstly the development of the The appointment of a project management is the premise on which our financial model new stadium and secondly the operation of team and a design team were made in depends. It will be necessary for the four that stadium. This company has been staffed accordance with the E.U. procurement professional teams at provincial level to be up appropriately, led by an experienced regulations. The appointment in April of a financially and commercially viable if this Project Director, and is based in offices design consortium led by HOK Sport and delicate financial balance is to be maintained, near to Lansdowne Road. Noel Murphy and Scott Tallon Walker along with a project bearing in mind that the I.R.F.U. will continue to Philip Browne are directors of the limited management consortium led by Project hold and fund the player contracts. This must liability company along with two directors Management Ltd. provides the Stadium be achieved without impacting the finances appointed by the F.A.I., the company being Development Company with a world class of the Branch administration of the club and chaired by Philip Browne. team to deliver a new stadium at Lansdowne
12
Road. The intention is to target a planning between experience and input from the performance shown by the team. However,
application by year end 2005 and hopefully voluntary elected representatives and that once again, a positive result was marred
commencement of construction in 2007. of the professional staff. The Management by injury, on this occasion to S. Horgan,
A consultation forum with an independent Committee and the sub committees have who was ruled out for the remainder of
chairman has been set up with local had a challenging workload in dealing with the Championship. In a tight enough game
residents, which will provide local residents the Strategic Plan and the ever changing with France, the injuries made their impact.
with a forum to air their concerns and to international rugby environment. The A more limited game plan was followed
work with the design team in addressing operation of this new structure will be and France won the game putting paid to
those concerns. The I.R.F.U. is working reviewed from time to time to ensure it Ireland’s Grand Slam aspirations. Despite
with both Lansdowne F.C. and Wanderers works to best effect. the disappointing result against France, there
F.C. to ensure that both clubs are catered was still a lot to play for in Wales in the form
for in the arrangements that will pertain in of the Triple Crown and the Championship.
the new development. National Team However, a poor start to the game provided
A sixty percent win ratio for the National Wales with momentum and with the nation
The implementation of the Strategic team in season 2004/05, including wins behind them in Cardiff, Wales went on to
Plan has prompted a review of our over South Africa, England and Argentina close the match out despite a last quarter
organisational structure and this has compares well with any of Ireland’s rally by Ireland. The results of all these
involved some changes in roles and performances in past years. Despite this, matches are recorded in the appendices to
responsibilities. Five main areas of activity there was a sense of disappointment that this report.
are headed up as follows:- in the Six Nations Championship the team
perhaps did not perform to its capability Despite the disappointment of the last two
Rugby albeit the injuries incurred by key players international matches of the season, it is
Director of Rugby (E. Wigglesworth) impacted and limited the team significantly. positive to record that eleven Irish players
Corporate Services were chosen for the Lions Tour to New
Director of Corporate Services (M. Following disappointment in the Summer Zealand. Also involved in the Lions Tour are
Murphy) Tour to South Africa where, despite an Eddie O’Sullivan as Assistant Coach, Mike
Finance excellent performance in the second test, Ford as an Assistant Defence Coach, the
Financial Controller (C. O’Brien) the Irish team failed in its ambition to beat Irish Team Doctor, Dr. Gary O’Driscoll and
Human Resources the Springboks in South Africa, the wins David McHugh as a Specialist Advisor.
Director of Human Resources (M. Dowling) against South Africa and Argentina in the
Commercial and Marketing autumn at Lansdowne Road were hard The challenge going forwards for Eddie
Director of Commercial and Marketing fought but deserved and boded well for the O’Sullivan and his management is to focus on
(P. Power) RBS Six Nations Championship. Inevitably, building a team to represent Ireland at Rugby
the public expectations for the RBS Six World Cup 2007. The first step in that process
All five heads of each area report directly Nations Championship grew wildly, and will be the tour to Japan which will obviously
to the Chief Executive. This new structure there is no doubt that on form the Irish take place without the eleven players selected
was approved by the I.R.F.U. Committee in team were well placed to do well in the for the Lions tour to New Zealand. This will
February 2005 and is now in operation. Championship. The initial win over Italy give an opportunity to some of the younger
was blighted by the injuries to B. O’Driscoll players and fringe players to stake their claim
The Union’s governance was changed and G. D’Arcy, the latter playing no further to places on the international team in the
two years ago and saw the introduction part in the Championship. A good result near future. This tour will be led by Niall
of a Management Committee and four was recorded against Scotland despite the O’Donovan as Coach with Michael Bradley
executive sub committees dealing with absence of B. O’Driscoll who returned from and Mark McCall as Assistant Coaches. Joey
representative rugby, domestic rugby, injury in time to feature in the England match Miles will be the Tour Manager.
finance and commercial/marketing. The at Lansdowne Road. An excellent result was
structure is working well providing a blend recorded against England with a committed13
This season marks the retirement of Brian give those players valuable experience. The Irish Schools tour to Australia in summer
O’Brien as Manager to the Irish team. Brian 2004 under coach Peter Melia was successful
has played an integral role in the success of The Irish Sevens team, coached by Ryan with six wins out of seven matches played.
the Irish team over the last four years and he Constable competed at a number of events The tour party were great ambassadors for
has been a tremendous servant to Irish rugby prior to the R.W.C. Sevens which were held Irish rugby. This spring the Irish Schools
as a player, coach, selector and administrator. in Hong Kong. The results are outlined in were unbeaten in their three games against
His contribution to all these facets of the the appendices and despite some concerns England, Wales and France.
game has been greatly appreciated. about the relatively inexperienced Irish
Sevens team playing against professional The Irish U.19 team coached by Pat Murray
I would also like to formally acknowledge the Sevens squads, the Irish team performed travelled to the U.19 World Championships
support of permanent tsb, our National team with some credit. The young players in South Africa, finishing in ninth place.
sponsor. We are indebted to you for your involved will undoubtedly have gained from The standards in this annual tournament
contribution to Irish rugby. the experience. The I.R.F.U. must now make are increasing year on year. The skills
a decision on where it stands in relation to and strength shown by the top teams in
Some two and half years ago the I.R.F.U. Sevens rugby, as without the availability of this competition clearly demonstrate the
assisted the professional players in setting players or adequate financing and without challenges that we face in Irish rugby.
up its representative body, the Irish Rugby any real link between the Sevens programme
Union Players Association (I.R.U.P.A.). It was and the elite development programme, the The Irish Youth U.18 team beat Scotland
recognised that a representative body was Irish Sevens team will continue to under- and lost to Italy whilst the Ireland U.18
needed for the players to address various perform at international level. team which played in the Four Nations U.18
welfare issues and to look after the interests Tournament performed well with one win,
of professional players. The I.R.F.U. agreed The Ireland U.21 team reached the final one loss and one draw against Scotland,
to provide seed funding to I.R.U.P.A. for its of the I.R.B. U.21 World Championship in England and Wales, respectively.
initial three years. There is a need for the Scotland in June 2004. Both the players
I.R.F.U. and I.R.U.P.A. to work together to and the Coach, Mark McDermott, deserve From next season at national level, Ireland
ensure that the professional game in Ireland is great credit for that performance. Jamie will run an U.18 Schools team on a January
sustainable from the point of view of a game Heaslip went on to receive a nomination 1st basis. This team will play in the Four
as a whole and also from the point of view as Young Player of the Year at the Annual Nations Tournament at Easter. There will
of the players themselves. Whilst there will I.R.B. Awards. As is the nature of age-grade also be an U.18 youth side (drawn from the
inevitably be differences of opinion between rugby, the squad make-up changes from club sector) on January 1st basis which hope
the I.R.F.U. and I.R.U.P.A., it is nevertheless year to year. Results this season have been to play in the F.I.R.A. U.18 competition also
important that both organisations focus on poor to date compared to last season, with held at Easter.
the long term wellbeing of players and the only one win out of five matches in the U.21
game as a whole. Six Nations Championship. The squad now
undergoes preparation for the U.21 World
Championships in Argentina in June.
Other Representative Teams
Having dropped Ireland ‘A’ matches last
season, it was felt that a limited programme
of ‘A’ matches would be beneficial. A single
match was played against France ‘A’ which
Ireland ‘A’ won narrowly, coached by Michael
Bradley and Allen Clarke. Next season at
least two ‘A’ fixtures are scheduled. This will
provide the National Coach with opportunities
to view fringe and emerging players and will14
It is ever more important that the I.R.F.U. elite programme has a close
interface and supports the work done at schools level if we are to
address the skills deficit and the strength and conditioning deficit that
is self-evident in our emerging professional playing base.
The U.19 team will continue to play in the matches against England and France. The final against Leicester and were well beaten.
I.R.B. U.19 World Championship. Players highlight of the Six Nations Campaign was Munster travelled to France to play Biarritz in
in both clubs and schools will only play undoubtedly beating Wales for the first time their quarter final and turned in an impressive
in their appropriate age group and in this in Irish Womens rugby history and thereby performance in the second half of the match
fashion, the past difficulties of primacy of achieving automatic qualification for the and were narrowly beaten. In the European
selection will be resolved. This new policy Womens Rugby World Cup to be held in Shield competition, Connacht performed well
will be supported by an interprovincial Canada in autumn 2006. to reach the semi finals but were ultimately
structure operating on a similar basis. It beaten by Sale.
is hoped that this will ensure that the Details of the teams, team managements and
strongest possible teams represent Ireland results for each of the Irish representative In the Celtic League, Munster were placed
in the appropriate age groups. teams are listed in the appendices. second and Leinster third thereby gaining
qualification to the knock-out stages of the
The autumn of 2004 included three Celtic Cup. The Celtic Cup final, the last match
preparation matches for the Irish Womens Provincial Teams of the season at Lansdowne Road, afforded the
team against Japan, English Academy and It was a mixed season for the provincial teams perfect stage for Munster’s farewell to coach,
the Combined Provinces. Each of these with some notable successes on the pitch yet Alan Gaffney, prior to his return to Australia.
matches resulted in a win for the Irish equally some disappointing performances, Munster added the Celtic Cup to their 2003
squad including a comprehensive 55 - 0 all of which are recorded in the appendices. Celtic League victory by overcoming Llanelli
win over Japan. Despite its disappointing Leinster and Munster reached the quarter by 27 – 16 in an exciting encounter. The Celtic
loss against Spain in the Six Nations, finals of the Heineken Cup, Leinster being League forms the backbone of the professional
there were some notable achievements unbeaten in the pool stages. Leinster once game in Ireland, Scotland and Wales and its
including a very strong performance against again failed to fire on all cylinders in front of a importance is referred to later in the report.
Scotland in Murrayfield and well fought full house in Lansdowne Road in their quarterIt has been evident for some time that we face also being addressed. There has been some one to achieve for any coach. We do need
difficulties in staffing four professional squads positive dialogue with representatives of to keep an eye to the future and ensure that
given our small base of players and limited schools and youth rugby to resolve issues the players are given playing opportunities,
financial resources. This has manifested itself of prioritisation of Irish age-grade teams and otherwise their rate of development will be
in the continuing need to bring in players to bring our age eligibility regulations into slow. This can only hinder performance in the
from abroad and an increase in competition line with those of the international rugby long term and increase the pressure to retain
between provinces in relation to player community, i.e., 1st January cut-off date. ageing players and recruit foreign players
recruitment. The need to reorganise elite These initiatives will hopefully ensure that – neither of which are in the best interest of
player development structures and support the best talent takes the field for Ireland Irish rugby. Conservative selection and lack
personnel has been recognised and this year at age-grade level whilst ensuring that the of game time for development players will
four provincial academies were created which existing schools rugby structures at provincial ultimately have a negative long term impact
are closely linked to the professional teams, level are not compromised. It is ever more on the professional game as well as provincial
each with an Academy Manager. The I.R.F.U. important that the I.R.F.U. elite programme and national team performances.
has also recognised that whilst many of the has a close interface and supports the work
elements of a high performance system are in done at schools level if we are to address the Other opportunities for skills development
place, these elements require co-ordination skills deficit and the strength and conditioning and playing experience need to be provided
and management and accordingly the post deficit that is self-evident in our emerging and increased participation in the I.R.B. World
of High Performance Manager has been professional playing base. Sevens Series and a return to an international
advertised and will be filled with a suitably ‘A’ fixture programme are options. These
qualified person. Another critical issue is the need to provide and other opportunities are being explored
our development players with game time in and considered by the professional coaching
Identifying talented players and providing the professional game. The balance between and player development staff through the
them with development opportunities is performance and development is a difficult Representative Game Committee.16
Critical to our professional playing structure is a administration of the club and schools game and retention, participation within universities
fixture list and the continuing uncertainty over and also the professional teams. The key to this and colleges, financial and structural funding,
the format of the Celtic League is worrying. is to ensure that the dividend for the amateur facility development and the Clubs of Ireland
The rationalisation of the professional game club and schools game that is provided by the Scheme. Recommendations emerging from
in Wales has been difficult not only for the professional game is clear to all. this process will form the basic work plan
Welsh but also for the Scottish and Irish teams and agenda for the Branches over the next
as the Celtic League as a competition has Ultimately we must move each professional three years once approved. The Branches have
continuously changed shape from year to team into a situation where, outside of the also had the opportunity of helping shape the
year. The different priorities of the Welsh player contract costs, the teams are financially domestic game budget. This whole process
clubs compared to the National team priority independent of the I.R.F.U. This requires has had the added benefit of widening the
of Ireland and Scotland has also introduced each professional team and the Branch to level of representation by clubs in to Branch
tensions. The I.R.F.U. and its provinces made have a proper business plan in place to deliberations and policy formulation which
a significant move to ease these tensions by ensure that revenues are maximised and an has introduced a new level of energy and
agreeing to provide Heineken Cup qualification appropriate dividend made available to the knowledge to the game. Hopefully some of
through Celtic League ranking, the aim being Branch administration of the amateur game. those who have been involved in this process
to provide more meaning to the competition. Facilities are important in this regard and it is will continue to contribute to the administration
However, recent moves by the Welsh teams important that these are upgraded. Plans are of the game at Branch level.
to participate in the English Powergen Cup being developed for Thomond Park, Musgrave
have once again introduced another layer of Park, Donnybrook and Ravenhill. Planning An important element of the Strategic Plan
uncertainty to the Celtic League and the final permission has already been received in was to place a greater emphasis on the club
format for the competition in future seasons respect of the redevelopment of Donnybrook and schools game. In this regard the I.R.F.U.
has yet to be resolved at the time of writing. and this summer an investment of _500,000 is has put in place the resources to ensure the
being made in pitch upgrades at Donnybrook. club focus is achieved. Kevin Potts, former
Irish rugby requires a vibrant professional Ireland ‘A’ player, has been recruited as
competition outside of the Heineken Cup. Domestic Game Domestic Game Manager with responsibility
The Heineken Cup is a fantastic competition This year the I.R.F.U. spent some _8m on for the implementation of the strategies for
but simply does not offer sufficient fixtures the domestic club and schools game in the the club and schools game. Gordon Black has
for professional teams. England and France form of direct funding and the provision of also been appointed as Rugby Administration
have sufficiently large populations to have an development programmes operated by the Manager. In each province, the I.R.F.U. is
internal professional competition, but it will Rugby Department. _3.5m of this funding providing funding for the appointment of a
continue to be necessary for those Unions was derived from the Irish Sports Council Club Development Manager, David Ross and
with a smaller playing base to join forces in grant and this is gratefully acknowledged as David Boyd, having already been appointed
cross-border competition. In this regard we it forms a critical part of our funding of youth in Leinster and Ulster, respectively. They will
are committed to the Celtic League with our and under-age development programmes. be responsible for providing the development
partners in Wales and Scotland. With such funding comes accountability support required by clubs. This structure will
and for these reasons the administration and ensure that the club agenda is to the fore at
In terms of the administration of the professional auditing of programmes assumes a greater Branch and Union level.
game, discussions have taken place with significance at club, Branch and Union levels.
each province to ensure that there is greater The Rugby Department Operational Plan this
transparency and accountability in respect The Domestic Game Committee has spent year saw significant levels of activity and in this
of the management and financial control of much time on co-ordinating the implementation regard some highlights are outlined below:-
the professional game. Greater clarity in the of its aspects of the I.R.F.U. Strategic Plan. In • There were high levels of provincial
lines of management and financial control particular, it has devolved much of the policy engagement in the Foundation/Level 1
between the administration of the amateur formulation down to the Branches which in turn coaching courses. Course attendance
game and professional game at Branch level have involved the wider rugby community in and accreditation is now becoming more
will help planning in respect of both the Branch discussion on key topics, such as, participation important in an increasingly litigious17
sporting environment. Universities and Colleges rugby is identified in level of participation in Adult Tag Rugby
• Sixty-five participants completed the first the Strategic Plan as an area that needs to be across both genders is now eleven thousand
year of a two year club/coach conditioning supported and exploited. Irish colleges rugby members. Rugby Department personnel
qualification sponsored by Powerade. The continues to grow as a consequence of very are now targeting girls schools in the major
aim of this course is to provide club and high levels of enthusiastic support by many urban centres as part of this expansion
schools personnel with specific training volunteers in this sector. It is an area of potential programme.
in relation to the physical conditioning of high growth and is also a fruitful recruitment
players for the game of rugby. A similar zone for clubs. The new interprovincial
number of entrants is anticipated for the and international representative structure AIB League
2005 to 2007 cycle. is providing a great focus and incentive for The results of the AIB League are covered in
• Approximately one thousand coaches, the many participants at this level. In a similar the attached appendices. Congratulations to
parents, and volunteers will have fashion, the Irish Universities Rugby Union is winners of Division I - Shannon, Division II –
completed the Associate Referee Scheme endeavouring to grow the participation levels UL Bohemians and Division III - Greystones.
by September 2005. This will ensure that in the University sector. The performance of the All the divisional finals were played at
all people involved in refereeing at age- University teams in the AIB League augurs well Lansdowne Road on 7th May providing an
grade level and schools rugby will have for the future of University rugby. However, the excellent day for Irish club rugby.
basic referee qualifications and will be need to ensure that the junior sides continue to
accredited. flourish and grow in these institutions with their The AIB League Working Party met on four
• The Coca-Cola Schools TAG rugby significant numbers of rugby players will be the occasions during the year. This group is
programme continues to provide primary challenge going forward. made up of representatives from the three
school children with access to rugby. divisions, the Branches and the I.R.F.U. It is
Twenty thousand children are involved. Irish Exiles players continue to be a strong responsible for determining the regulations
• The mini rugby and the youth club rugby feature of Irish age-grade sides. The work and structures of the AIB League. The
along with schools rugby continues of John Hunter, the Exiles Development emergence of the new divisional associations
to be vibrant, driven by thousands of Manager and the Exiles Committee chaired ensures that club views are well debated
volunteers and assisted by eighty-three by Feidlim MacLoughlin is greatly appreciated prior to coming to the AIB League Working
Youth Development Officers sponsored in this regard. Irish eligible U.K. based players Party and this is to be welcomed. Following
by Frosties, twelve Regional Development will continue to be extremely important in a request from the clubs, it was agreed that
Officers, four Provincial Development the context of the professional game in this the new structure for season 2005/06 will be
Managers and four National Managers. country. A very significant diasporas exists three divisions of sixteen teams played on a
whose inclinations and dreams are to play for home or away basis, with semi final and final
The key difficulty being faced within the club Ireland. The Exiles Committee and structure at the end of the season. A new All Ireland
game is player retention in the post sixteen to provides the facility in many cases for these Cup will also be introduced to add to what
eighteen year age group. This is not unique aspirations to become a reality. will be a vibrant national league structure.
to rugby and is a challenge for all sports. To provide an international outlet for the top
Critical for rugby is the need to attract sufficient Irish Womens rugby continues to grow with amateur players in the country, it has also
numbers of adult players to sustain and grow more clubs and players joining on an annual been agreed to stage an annual fixture with
the game. The importance of being pro-active basis. The I.R.F.U. and the I.W.R.F.U. are Scotland involving an Irish team drawn from
in the schools and youth sector cannot be over- continuing to work closely to drive significant the AIB League. The I.R.F.U. looks forward
emphasised and this will obviously be a key part increases in this area over the coming years to a constructive relationship with the
of the rugby development plan going forward. and a Strategic Plan has been produced by divisional associations in the context of the
Lateral and inventive thinking will be required the I.W.R.F.U. AIB League.
by all in the game to come up with competition
structures and timings that will make rugby a The Adult Tag Rugby programme is playing Our thanks to AIB for their continuing
more attractive sporting choice in the years a significant role in introducing women into support for the AIB League and club rugby.
ahead. clubs and into the game in general. TheReferees referee appointments internationally. The Medical Advisory Sub Committee in respect
The Referee Development Department talent identification system and coaching of club and schools rugby.
has been dealing with important issues in ensures that the programme and age profile
both the professional and amateur game of referees in AIB Division I and II is very The I.R.F.U. once again commissioned
during the season. As mentioned earlier the positive for the future. anti-doping testing through the Irish
Associate Referee programme has ensured Sports Council (I.S.C.), supplementing the
some one thousand two hundred non- I.S.C. National Anti-doping programme.
affiliated referees have been accredited. Medical/Anti-doping Details of tests performed are outlined
Coaching workshops have been extended The appointment of Dr. Conor McCarthy as below. Regrettably a club player failed an
to ensure all official referees receive access I.R.F.U. Medical Director marks a significant “in-competition” drug test and this case
to coaching. The Schoolboy Referee initiative in the professionalisation of our is currently before the I.S.C. Anti-doping
programme has been delivered in Belfast, medical support service which heretofore Tribunal.
Cork, Dublin and Limerick and continues to relied on the goodwill and commitment
be successful. A pilot programme has been of our voluntary medical personnel. With 2004/05 Anti-doping Programme
developed for the I.W.R.F.U. to encourage approximately one hundred and fifty players In Competition Testing
refereeing within the womens game. The on some form of contract and numerous Team No. of Players tested
only disappointment has been the poor representative teams playing in competitions Senior XV 10
response from clubs to referee recruitment around the world it is important that our U.21 XV 10
and this may need to be reflected in future medical services are co-ordinated and Celtic League 10
Clubs of Ireland Scheme criteria. delivered in a professional fashion. Conor AIB League Club XVs 20
McCarthy’s role extends beyond the Sevens 11
The quality of our top referees is professional game in terms of co-ordinating Schools 02
acknowledged and is reflected in the and delivering policy set down by the19
Out of Competition Testing and has embarked on several major In terms of meeting the key performance
Team No. of Players tested fundraising projects including the Friends of indicators as set out in the Strategic Plan a
Senior 22 the Charitable Trust scheme, now numbers number of key marketing initiatives have
Provincial Squads 32 four hundred and fifty members, golf outings been put in place in addition to which
Sevens 16 and a fundraising walk will coincide with the substantial revenue generating programmes
Lions Tour to New Zealand. and sponsorship deals have been concluded
this past year. I would like to thank all of the
Charitable Trust sponsors of Irish rugby for their support and
The Charitable Trust was set up in 1978 Commercial and Marketing contribution to the game.
by the Union to provide a fund to assist It has been a very successful year in the
seriously injured rugby players in their commercial and marketing area through On the marketing front, the aim has been to
every day lives. The fund now stands the efforts of the Commercial Committee leverage the high profile of Irish rugby and this
at over _2m and payments are made under the chairmanship of Pat Fitzgerald has resulted in unprecedented marketing activity
by the Trust towards specialised home and the departmental staff under Padraig at all levels of the game. Of significant note this
improvements, wheelchairs, adapted Power. The department has grown as part season has been the AIB Media and Marketing
vehicles and other equipment and of the recently launched Strategic Plan workshops held in all four provinces in five
expenses necessary to meet the needs of with the addition of Karl Richardson as venues. These meetings have been very fruitful
our injured players. Distributions annually Communications and Media Manager. His in helping to begin to re-position the club game
amount some _220,000. remit has been to fill the role of Media and to effect a more positive and closer working
Liaison Officer for the National and under- relationship between the clubs and the Union.
There are thirty injured players and the need age teams as well as managing the P.R. and The challenge is to build on this momentum and
for the Trust has been never more important. communications activity including editing to work together towards a more secure future
The Trust continually needs to raise funds the website for the Union. for the club game in Ireland.20
‘Against the Head’ the weekly magazine New Marketing initiatives launched this partner to the I.R.F.U.
programme on R.T.E. has transmitted more season include:- • Coca-Cola as official soft drink to the
AIB League highlights than ever before and • The Irish Rugby Supporters Club was I.R.F.U.
there has been a very positive increase in launched to get closer to fans and to create • Powerade as official sports drink to the
viewership figures over the past season for the a new revenue stream. I.R.F.U.
programme. The emergence of Setanta now • AIB Media and Marketing workshops. • Kellogg’s as official snack food to the
broadcasting the Celtic League and Schools • VHI Fit for Fun Programme in Munster. I.R.F.U.
rugby, the RBS Six Nations coverage on R.T.E. • Ulster Bank Summer Camps kick off this • Kellogg’s Frosties as official sponsors of
and B.B.C. and the Heineken Cup on R.T.E. summer in forty-nine venues across the the Youth Development Programme.
and Sky are all giving Irish rugby fans a greater four provinces.
choice and variety of rugby on television. • Powerade Conditioning Programme aimed New Sponsorships:-
at certifying club coaches in modern • O2 as sponsors of the West Stand
www.irishrugby.ie, the Union’s website, conditioning techniques. Lansdowne Road.
continues to show further growth this season • Ulster Bank as sponsors of the new
with over 1.1 million visitor sessions in February/ On the commercial front the renewal of the Summer Camp Rugby programme.
March, an increase of 672,000 (446,000 for same kit sponsorship with Canterbury has been • Elvery’s Sports as retail partner to the
period last year) and over 374,000 unique visitors one of several highlights that also include the I.R.F.U.
in February/March, an increase of 244,000 following: • Powerade as sponsors of the Conditioning
(130,000 for same period last year). This past programme.
season has also seen the successful launch of the Contracts Renewed/Extended:- • HP as technology partners to the I.R.F.U.
on-line shop in association with Elvery’s Sports • Canterbury of New Zealand as official kit • Canterbury as sponsors of the Irish Rugby
which has resulted in another revenue stream supplier. Supporters Club.
for the Union. • O2 as official mobile communications • Volvic as sponsors of Adult Tag Rugby21
Corporate Services I point these facts and figures out to show the summer. While the HR function permeates
Lansdowne Road staff once again provided level of activity required to support what the all aspects of the Plan it is the professional
the support required to ensure that the I.R.F.U. does. This level of activity requires game strategies and the leadership and
increasing range of I.R.F.U. activity operates staffing and management and the I.R.F.U. is management strategies that have been the
effectively. Irish teams were involved in forty- fortunate on having a good team of people primary focus in the programmes, policies
three fixtures this season with ten senior in place to deliver the services required. As and procedures that have been developed
international matches. Three hundred indicated in the introduction to this report during the year. We have made significant
thousand tickets were printed and distributed there has been some reorganisation of roles progress in this regard but there is much
and it is interesting to record that tickets and responsibilities to ensure the smooth that remains to be done.
to the value of _500,000 were purchased operation of the I.R.F.U. A decision will need
from the I.R.F.U. website. The storage and to be made over the next twelve months Changes in Employment Legislation have
handling of kit has become a more significant in relation to office accommodation as the necessitated ongoing review in the area
exercise over the past number of years and current set-up with three different offices is of Employment Contracts and while there
this year some twenty thousand items of kit far from ideal. is a need for ongoing vigilance many of
were handled and distributed. the inconsistencies that prevailed in this
With a staff, including players and coaches, area have now been addressed. Changes
In terms of senior international matches, of approximately three hundred people, the in legislation, anti-doping regulations and
some thirteen thousand accreditations were Union’s investment in a Human Resources perhaps most notably, intellectual property
issued for media, stewards and catering function has been very necessary. Much and image rights have all been factors
staff. In all, across all events at Lansdowne of the activity in the Human Resources in prompting a fundamental review of
Road, some eight hundred and fifty thousand Department over the past twelve months professional player contracts. The I.R.F.U.
patrons attended rugby, soccer and concert has been on delivery against the targets has been well served by the original
events. set out in the Strategic Plan launched last document drafted when the game turned22
The continuing evolution of the I.R.F.U. as an organisation
will hopefully assist in maintaining the healthy interface
between the elected representatives and the full time
professional staff.
professional. The revised document will retirement and it is safe to say, George will Past President. John has made a significant
endeavour to reflect these changes and the continue to be found pitch-side for many contribution since being elected to the
increasingly complex commercial realities years to come. I.R.F.U. Committee in 1994, culminating in
of professional sport. The revised contract his appointment as President in 2003/04.
is currently being finalised and will be the Best wishes to John and his wife, Ann, on his
subject of discussions with all relevant Committee retirement from the I.R.F.U.
stakeholders over the coming months. The impact of the new Strategic Plan
continues to be felt by the members Bob McConkey also steps down from
Finally, it would be remiss of me not to mention of the I.R.F.U. Committee in the form of the I.R.F.U. Committee. Since joining the
the retirement of George Spotswood at the a significant workload required to ensure I.R.F.U. in 1998 he has made valuable
end of this season. George has been a familiar implementation of the Plan is delivered at contribution to both the development of the
face at 62 Lansdowne Road since he joined Branch and club level. In addition, the ever club game drawing from his experience of
the I.R.F.U. in 1979 as its first Development increasing complexity of sports administration his own club, Shannon R.F.C., and also to
Officer. His love of the game, his knowledge and management requires a significant the professional game given his experience
of the game and his commonsense approach commitment from the voluntary elected as Chairman of the Munster Provincial Team
to the various challenges that arise from time representatives. The continuing evolution of Management Committee. Again best wishes
to time are obvious to all who know him. the I.R.F.U. as an organisation will hopefully to Bob and Cathy.
His contribution to Irish rugby originally in a assist in maintaining the healthy interface
voluntary capacity and later as a member of between the elected representatives and the
the professional staff has been considerable full time professional staff.
and he is respected internationally for his
knowledge of the game. We wish George John Quilligan retires from the I.R.F.U.
and his wife, Maeve, many happy years of Committee following his year as immediateYou can also read
