Ulster Launch Talent Search For Front Rowers Aged 14-17

Ulster Rugby’s front row screening day will include physical testing and on-pitch screening. No formal rugby experience is necessary and players who are currently on the pathway need not apply.

If you’re interested and are:

– Available on Sunday, November 15
– Aged between 14 and 17 with a date of birth between 1999-2002
– Physically big for your age
– Have been involved in any individual or team sport
– Competitive and ambitious

Please complete an application form (available here) and return via email to jonathan.gillespie@ulsterrugby.com no later than Monday, November 9 at 5pm. Jonathan will then be in touch with a formal invite.

Details –

What: Ulster’s Prop’er’ Challenge – Talent search for front row players
When: Sunday, November 15, 9.45am to 12 noon
Registration – 9.45am
Introduction and welcome – 10am
Gym-based screening – 10.15am-11am
Rugby-based screening – 11.15am-12pm
Conclusion and debrief – 12.15pm-12.30pm
Where: Queen’s University Belfast base, the Dub

Testing will include:

– Squat assessment
– 10m speed test
– Three rep max pull-up
– Power measurement
– Small-sided games

Further Information –

Do I need rugby experience?

No – absolutely not, as rugby is a late specialisation sport. A great attitude and willingness to learn will be as important than any previous playing experience.

What should I bring with me?

Some training kit, water bottle and a snack. Shorts, socks, trainers and football boots (if you have them). Waterproof top/jacket in case of bad weather.

What should I expect?

After registration and welcome, we will briefly outline the morning. We will then run 60 minutes of gym based activities followed by 60 minutes of pitch based activities. Following the rugby session, we will then outline what happens next.

What do I need to do?

Firstly fill out the application form and send it back to Jonathan Gillespie. Please make sure you highlight any injures you have or any medication you are on.

What happens next?

Successful applicants will be invited into the player pathway within the Ulster age-grade system with a possibility of playing for Ulster at their relevant age group. Players who are not currently playing with a club will also be signposted to their local club.