Rugby
A message from our President
“Welcome to the Belfast Harlequins Rugby website.
I was truly honoured to be selected as President of the Rugby Club for season 2023/2024 at the most recent AGM.
The Club’s core purpose is to provide the best possible opportunities on and off the pitch for male and female players of all ages and abilities to enjoy the game of Rugby Football. This is only made possible by the generosity of our sponsors and businesses who take up advertising boards who are crucial to the continued wellbeing of our Club and to whom we wish to extend our gratitude. It is impossible to overestimate the value of sponsorship at any time. Without it, grass roots rugby in Ulster, and indeed throughout Ireland, would not be able to continue at the same level.
With regard to the Senior Squad, we wish our Director of Rugby, Anthony McKibbin, and his team headed up by coaches Neil Doak, Cole Blyde and Graeme Cloke our best wishes for the season; we also extend our best wishes to our physios, team managers and, most of all, the players. Despite being so close last season to the top 4 play offs, they start again this season with the goal of promotion being our aim in a very competitive league. They have managed to build and hold together our playing squads in preparation for the competitive fixtures ahead in 2023/2024.
In addition to the Senior Squad, we have very sociable but competitive junior men’s teams coached by Craig Henderson, Tom Montgomery and Michael Miller, a spirited women’s rugby squad coached by Ralph Lavery, Josh Richardson and Jen Goodall and a remarkably busy Mini Rugby section comprising some 150 children. We are also building squads of players in the U12, U14 and U16 categories. Lastly, we have an active and very mature (age wise) mixed walking rugby section who play over the summer months.
We rely on volunteers to keep the wheels of the Club turning; these are people who turn up early morning or in dark evenings to run training sessions and manage teams, get players to venues all around the country, liaise with opponents, referees and our catering partners; they spend hours communicating timings and tactics to players, setting-up pitches when everyone is in the bar or the changing rooms. Off the pitch there is administration required to run the game, sending reports to the IRFU and Ulster Branch, organising lunches, social events, and fundraising activities, staying connected with sponsors and our commercial partners. It all takes a huge effort; they are all vital and they deserve our thanks; we would welcome fresh faces who want to help at our amazing Club.
Please, whether you are a player, supporter or just like watching sport, come down to the Club and see what’s going on.
Thank you.”
– Martin Malseed
Belfast Harlequins was formed in 1999 with the merger of Collegians, North of Ireland Cricket Club and North of Ireland Football Club. The former clubs were three of the oldest and most distinguished clubs in Ireland. “North” sold its famous ground at Ormeau – one of the earliest international rugby venues – to pay for the redevelopment of the Deramore Park facilities.
The club uses a version of the Maltese cross that MCB uses as its sports logo, with the colours being those of navy, sky blue, red and maroon. The North colours were traditionally red, blue and black, with Collegians using navy, white and maroon.
At two extraordinary general meetings held simultaneously in both North and Collegians, the members of both clubs voted to proceed with the merger to form the new club, Belfast Harlequins. As of 12.00 midnight, 18 November 1999, Belfast Harlequins came into existence. The first annual general meeting of the new club took place in March 2000. The new clubhouse at Deramore was opened in June 2002 by the then club president, Alison Watt, along with Jack Kyle OBE and Gilbert Paton.
On and off the field, all three sections of Belfast Harlequins set-up have been successful. Pictures and memorabilia of both clubs and grounds is placed around the bar area and throughout the club. There is an active social scene with many parties and events that take place throughout the season.
In Pictures
Photos capturing the rich history and vibrant community of Belfast Harlequins can be viewed on The Front Row Union website. Whether you’re interested in the sporting achievements or the lively social events that mark the club’s calendar, you’ll find a wealth of imagery that brings the spirit of the club to life. Visit The Front Row Union to explore the gallery.
Teams
Mens
Our men's rugby team is the backbone of Belfast Harlequins. They compete in AIL 2B, travelling around Ireland to challenge some of the best teams in the country
Minis Rugby
our minis section are the life-line of the club. They embody the enthusiasm, passion and fun which encompasses the club ethos. While learning the basics of the game and having fun doing so, they create memories to last a lifetime.
Womens
Our women’s section showcase the strength and talent within local womens’ sport. They compete in the Ulster Premiership league, playing top tier rugby every week, whilst creating a lasting legacy for younger female rugby players.
Mens Rugby Sponsors
Minis Rugby Rugby Sponsors
RFC committee 2023-24
Below, you’ll find important contact details to ensure you can easily connect with the right individuals within our club. Feel free to reach out to us using the provided information for any inquiries, questions, or assistance you may need. We’re here to help make your Belfast Harlequins experience a great one!
Martin Malseed
President
Anthony McKibbin
Director Of Rugby
Will Miscampbell
Mini's Rugby Convenor
Jen Goodall
Women's Rugby Convenor
Alan Hunter
Revenue Income