I am truly honoured to have been appointed as the D.U.F.C. Club Captain for the 2024/25 season, taking over from my good friend Diarmuid McCormack. I’ve had the pleasure of playing alongside some exceptional captains with Trinity. I’m enormously excited to add to their legacy and lead this most historic of clubs which has become a central and inspiring part of my life over the last four years.
I look forward to the ebb and flow of our campaign over the long season ahead and guiding our squad of outstanding young players under the vision of Director of Rugby, Tony Smeeth and all his dedicated coaches and staff. Always at the heart will be the timeless traditions of Trinity rugby – sporting camaraderie and “building on what has gone before”.
As is natural for a University club, a new season brings plenty of new faces and the graduation of many stalwart players. These old friends have left an example on and off the pitch for current and incoming players to aspire to. While it’s sad to say goodbye, we wish them the best in their new endeavours, and for some, we look forward to seeing them in opposition colours this season.
I am fortunate to welcome Steve Tracey as our incoming D.U.F.C. President. As former Trinity 1992/3 Captain, Steve will be an invaluable source of support and experience for the Club and senior squad. On behalf of the players, I must say a massive thank you to Moira Flahive for her exceptional work as last year’s President. Her support throughout the Club was unwavering and she was deservedly awarded Trinity Sports Alumnus of the year. I must also say a massive thank you to John Boyd our departing Chairperson for his commitment to Trinity Rugby over the years and Kay Bowen who leaves her role as the club’s administrator after incredible years of service. Kay organised everything from alumni events to in season match day lunches. We will miss her being our loudest supporter on match days and her incredible work throughout the club. Welcome too, to Caroline McFadden who has taken over Kay’s role.
The upcoming season presents new challenges following the senior squad’s relegation to Division 1B after 8 years in the top flight. New clubs to become acquainted with, each with their own strengths and style of play. Last season was overall very frustrating, but it was also a time of great learning and has instilled resilience in the players. We began with high hopes, especially after our successful tour to the USA. While the Energia All Ireland League (AIL) season didn’t yield the results we aimed for, with victories only coming after Christmas, we managed to peak for an unforgettable victory in the annual Colours fixture against UCD. Retaining the Dudley Cup and finishing the game 22-13 in dramatic fashion will forever embody the spirit of Trinity Rugby.
However, a club is not defined by one team and there was success throughout the teams. The senior 2nd XV or J1s had a milestone season making the final of their league (coming 2nd) for the first time in D.U.F.C. history but sadly lost the final, as well as advancing to the semi-final of the cup. The U20s made the top 4 and the playoffs in JP Fanagan Premier 1, and lost narrowly in both the Fraser McMullan and McCorry Cup semi-finals signalling real quality coming through the ranks as in previous years. The Women’s XV also had a tough relegation year but will be looking to bounce back. I wish Captain Kate O’Reilly and her team all the best for the season ahead.
As I write, all our efforts are focused on pre-season training, our tour to Biarritz and preparation for the AIL season. We’re eagerly awaiting our first match on the 21st of September away to Nenagh and the exciting season that lies ahead.
Finally, I would like to welcome you and all our wonderful supporters to College Park, the historic home of D.U.F.C. and sincerely thank you for your attendance and commitment to our great club.
Yours,
Louis McDonough
D.U.F.C. Club Captain 2024/2025