Future Rugby stars tackle 35th Nutty Krust Tournament!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Future Rugby stars tackle 35th Nutty Krust Tournament

In the middle of an exciting season, this week gives dedicated sports fans the chance to spot the next generation of rugby stars as the fixtures for the 35th annual Nutty Krust Rugby Floodlit Tournament at Portadown RFC were announced.

The tournament, which kicks off on 5th February with a match between Dungannon and Randalstown, will see Under 19 players from 12 clubs compete every Wednesday evening at Chambers Park, Portadown.

The first round fixtures, drawn by John Robinson, President of Ulster Branch (IRFU) will see four matches including home team and last year’s runner up, Portadown facing off against 2013 semi-finalists Ballynahinch and Limavady making their first ever appearance in the tournament. This year four teams (Larne, Instonians, Malone and last year’s victors Banbridge) received a BYE into the quarter finals.

Brian Irwin, Chairman of the tournament’s primary sponsor, Irwin’s Bakery, explains why being involved in grassroots sports is so important:

“Irwin’s Bakery has been involved in the tournament since its inception 35 years ago, so we have had the pleasure of watching many of the bright sparks of the competition graduate to professional level over the years. The Nutty Krust Rugby Tournament is just one of the ways Irwin’s has helped to foster ‘grass roots’ sports development in Northern Ireland – tournaments such as this help the next generation of players realise their potential by creating competitive opportunities for them to fully develop their skills.

“I would like to extend our thanks to the organisers and officials who dedicate their time to the tournament every week and would encourage the whole family to come along to Chambers Park Portadown every Wednesday at 7.45pm and join in the fun!”