WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT, DUNGANNON FOOTBALL CLUB

Since the day that Dungannon RFC was founded in 1873 its members have had a legacy of standing square to challenges and mastering them. That is the foundation of a truly great club.

Presently we are in the midst of further major challenges, not least the current economic climate putting pressure on our tightly run finances, and we deeply appreciate the support from our many generous sponsors, without whom this club could not exist in its current form. Another challenge is the absence of many of our best players to the Ulster network, although this means young, up and coming players now have a better chance of raising their standards and fulfilling their potential much earlier.

To our players, achievement does not come without extremely hard work, sacrifice and determination from players and coaches alike. We cater for rugby at all levels, from our minis, through to under 20’s, and from our fourths to our first xv, which set the benchmark for our club. The care and attention dedicated to teaching our mini children on a Saturday morning is a credit to parents and coaches alike, and the contribution our club makes to the local community is often overlooked. Our coaches take great pride in producing players who will play good rugby, but greater support must be given by the IRFU. Our Union must provide more money to enable us to develop our youngsters and in particular to make it possible for us to play against clubs from other provinces.
To our own members, current and lapsed, come along and get involved, there is a job for everyone. In the words of our outstanding patron Mr. Bobby Mills, “It is not what your club can do for you, but what you can do for your club”.

We have an extremely hard working general committee, sub committees, coaches, management teams, and club captains at all levels. To our Ladies Committee, where would we be without you? And to Harold and the bar staff, many thanks for the friendly and faithful service.

We have pride in our reputation for being one of the friendliest clubs in Ireland. Dungannon RFC has always been a family Club and I would like to extend a warm welcome to one and all who visit Stevenson’s Park this season, be it on a match day or not. We want and need your support to keep this club at the forefront of Irish rugby for generations to come.

It is an honour and privilege to be your 2009/10 President.

Thank you

Stanley J. Turkington