With this new investment from DCAL, Ulster Rugby has been able to increase its capacity to deliver programmes across the Province by employing 17 new staff members.
So far the programme has produced some brilliant results for various streams of the game within Ulster.
Boosted by the success of the Ireland Women's team in winning this year's Six Nations Grand Slam, female rugby participation has enjoyed massive growth. Since that triumph in March, and with two dedicated Female Rugby Officers now in post, five adult female clubs have formed, in addition to three U18 teams and five U15 teams.
With a full time Disability & Inclusion Officer on board, three rugby clubs have added sections for those with special needs, bringing the total number of disability teams in Ulster to eight.
With significant support from DCAL, Ulster Rugby has been able to fit out numerous affiliated rugby clubs and community groups with state-of-the-art gyms. Three dedicated Fitness Development Coaches are currently working with schoolchildren, many from deprived areas, as well as training strength and conditioning volunteers.
Perhaps the biggest impact has been made by the seven new Community Rugby Coaches employed to work in areas of social deprivation across the Province. Since March this year over 9149 schoolchildren have been engaged in a structured rugby programme for the first time.
These increased participation opportunities will hopefully help Ulster Rugby to expand and build long term success.
Ulster Rugby are excited to deliver this programme, which would not have been possible without the ongoing support from the Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure and Minister Carál Ní Chuilín.
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