Drumglass dreaming big ahead of first appearance in prestigious rugby competition

Drumglass High School is known for its love of, and commitment to, local rugby – but its upcoming challenge might just be its biggest yet.

The Dungannon school was recently entered into the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Medallion Shield competition – one of the most prestigious school sports competitions in the UK and Ireland.

First founded in 1910, the Medallion Shield has been contested among Ulster’s elite schools for more than a century and has long been considered a proving ground for some of the province’s elite, up-and-coming talents and prospects.

Now, Drumglass High School will have its chance to take to the field to compete among Ulster’s elite. Ahead of their opening fixture against Lurgan College, we sat down with manager Barry Jon Wilson to get his thoughts ahead of the historic matchup.

“This is a hugely exciting venture for Drumglass High School and something that we have been building towards for a number of years,” manager Wilson said.

“Year on year, we have seen our rugby numbers grow, with more pupils developing an interest in the game and committing to regular training. The strong relationship we have developed with Dungannon RFC has also been hugely important, with a number of our boys now playing regular club rugby.”

“It is fantastic that we have reached a point where we can take this next step and compete in the Medallion Shield for the first time in the school's history.”

The school’s preparation has been far from plain sailing, with Drumglass’ preparation hampered by multiple injury concerns ahead of the crucial match against Lurgan College.

“Unfortunately, as our opening-round fixture against Lurgan College approaches, our preparations have been disrupted by a number of significant injuries to key players. Team captain Mario Dobre is unavailable following a recent concussion, influential playmaker Max Brady has withdrawn with a broken finger, and Matthew Richardson, who was due to step in as captain, suffered a broken thumb while playing for his club against Monaghan at the weekend.”

Despite the setbacks, Wilson is choosing to remain positive and optimistic ahead of this week’s crucial tie.

“While these are undoubtedly setbacks, they will not dampen our enthusiasm or determination,” Wilson said. “Whoever pulls on the Drumglass jersey on Tuesday will have the opportunity to be part of something special.”

Of course, winning is the aim of the game – but Wilson believes that simply getting to this stage is something for his team to be proud of. Looking ahead to the tie, Wilson had this to say.

“Regardless of the result, these boys are making a little bit of school history, and I have no doubt that every player selected will give absolutely everything for the team.”

Wilson concluded his thoughts by reflecting on the growth and development of rugby at Drumglass High School; and it’s fair to say that he is more than a little happy at how far his school has come.

“We are incredibly proud of how far rugby has come at Drumglass and are looking forward to embracing the challenge. We would encourage as many pupils, parents and supporters as possible to come along and get behind the boys.”