michael silke
Buccaneers have confirmed the appointment of a new coaching team ahead of the upcoming season.
Following Eddie O’Sullivan’s departure, the Athlone club has appointed Paul Byrne as head coach, assisted by Benny Gilligan and David Henshaw, with Craig Milling returning as senior manager.
All three coaches were involved with O’Sullivan, who had “to take a break from coaching due to starting a new business”, and the trio have been heavily involved with the Pirates for numerous seasons. Byrne and Gilligan helmed the Seconds, whom they revitalised to great effect and have also enjoyed coaching success with various underage teams over the years following lengthy playing careers with the Midlands club.
Henshaw was a formidable front row force not only for Athlone and Buccaneers but also for Connacht. He won an All-Ireland Senior League title with Garryowen and the Henshaw name has massive links at the club. He brings a wealth of high-level experience and nous to his role. Damien Shine takes up the reins as Director of Rugby while kit manager Martin Webster is a key back-up member as are physios Joe Smyth and Thomas ‘Jack’ Mannion.
The workload involved with an AIL squad is massive and, consequently, Paul and Benny have had to relinquish their direct coaching roles with the Junior team but they will be keenly involved with the new crew there too. Martin Staunton, recently retired after more than 200 AIL appearances in over a decade of sterling service for Buccs, takes up the mantle of head coach to the J1s, where he will be assisted by Eoghan Slevin with Niall Harney elevated to manager.
Conor Moran continues as manager of the J2s while coaches are being actively sought to take charge of Buccs U20s squad. It is a brave but pragmatic move by the club to select “in-house” as Buccaneers bid to build on their performances in Division 1B last season, but all involved are capable and shrewd coaches and should be well up to the challenges ahead of them.
Training commences on Tuesday, July 11, ahead of the new campaign, the fixtures for which are listed below.
Energia All-Ireland League Division 1B Fixtures 2023-24
Oct 7 St. Mary’s College (A )
Oct 14 University College Cork (H )
Oct 21 Highfield (A )
Nov 4 Old Belvedere (H )
Nov 11 Queen’s University (A )
Nov 18 Old Wesley (H )
Dec 2 Naas (A )
Dec 9 Garryowen (H )
Dec 16 Blackrock College (A )
Jan 13 Blackrock College (H )
Jan 20 Garryowen (A )
Jan 27 Naas (H )
Feb 10 Old Wesley (A )
Feb 17 Queen’s University (H )
Mar 2 Old Belvedere (A )
Mar 23 Highfield (H )
Mar 30 University College Cork (A )
Apr 6 St. Mary’s College (H )
Apr 20 Semi-final
Apr 27 Final
*IRFU encourages Friday night fixtures where possible/agreeable.
Summer Camps at Buccs
The first of two Rugby five day summer camps for girls and boys at Buccaneers is coming up shortly, beginning on Monday, July 10. Supported by SMITH’S SUPERVALU MONKSLAND it will run from 9.30am to 12.30pm daily. Registration is €80 per week with discounts for additional family members. No previous rugby playing experience is necessary and children will learn new skills in a fun environment whilst making friends and keeping fit. To register, contact Geraldine at 0861732711 or email [email protected] The second camp will take place from August 10 to 14.
Minis Tag
Minis tag for boys and girls, aged seven to 12 years, commenced on Tuesday, June 27. This will run for five Tuesdays.
National Schools Blitz at Buccaneers
Dubarry Park was the venue for the annual contact rugby blitz which is now in its 18th year. A fine day contributed to the occasion which was the culmination of the seven weeks coaching programme for 4th, 5th and 6th classes in the seven national schools.
Approximately 300 girls and boys showed off their newly acquired skills as they performed brilliantly for their school teams for approximately two hours in the sunshine. No cups were won and no medals given but the games were still hard fought and fairly contested. Referees Lorna, Brendan, Godfrey, Pat, Paul and Conor ensured games were played within the laws and the spirit of Rugby. Many thanks for the Teas and Coffees available for the mentors who complimented all involved with this event.
Golf & BBQ Classic
Buccaneers RFC annual Golf & BBQ Classic takes place on Tuesday, July 25, at the panoramic Christy O’Connor Jnr designed Glasson Lakehouse course overlooking Lough Ree. Entry is €280 per team of four (€240 for a tee time before 11 a.m. ). Last tee time is 4pm. All support will be greatly appreciated. Contact Geraldine at 0861732711 or email [email protected] to book. The earlier you book, the better tee time you can obtain.
Buccaneers in International Action
Jordan Conroy has been racking up the tries as Ireland Sevens, who recently won the Algarve Sevens title, bid for back-to-back qualification for the Olympic Games. Harry West is included in the Ireland squad competing in the World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa. Meanwhile, Robbie Henshaw and Finlay Bealham are among the Ireland senior squad training ahead of the Bank of Ireland Nations Series and, more importantly, the forthcoming Rugby World Cup. Best of luck to you on all fronts, guys!
