The 2010/11 season got off to a memorable start as UCD Rugby embarked on a two week pre-season tour to South Africa.

 The tour was a complete success as it struck a fine balance between rugby, socialising and cultural activities. Consequently, there was a positive atmosphere in the camp and morale was always high. This translated onto the pitch when we played two evenly contested games against University of Western Cape and False Bay R.F.C. We lost narrowly to University of Western Cape and secured an epic victory against False Bay.

Throughout our two week stay we were fortunate to have access to University of Cape Town’s training facilities. It was on their training grounds that we laid the foundations for the season through meticulous organisational and rigorous fitness work. We even managed to adopt a mascot for the tour, ‘Finbar the Cheetah’. His namesake Finbar Costello kindly donated him for the trip. Mrs. Shanley, mother of Peter and Rob, delicately stitched a jersey and shorts for him. He proved to be an integral part of the tour, present at every training session and sing-song!

South Africa is a stunning country and we were privileged to sample some of its tourist attractions. A trip up Table Mountain, a visit to the Cape of Good Hope and a wine-tasting afternoon in Stellenbosch’s world renowned vineyards were just some of the cultural activities that we enjoyed.

However the most memorable day of the tour was our trip to Langa Township which is located on the outskirts of Cape Town. We provided the local team ‘The Busy Bees’ with rugby balls, cones and an unforgettable coaching clinic.

Throughout the tour we often commented on the high quality food and exceptional training facilities. It is no surprise that South African rugby is so strong. Their culture caters nicely for achieving rugby excellence and it filters down to their University sides.

We are forever indebted to those who played such a large role in organising the trip. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and it will always live long in our memories. We thank Billy Murphy, Finbar Costello, John McClean, Bobby Byrne, Kevin Kenny, Vinny Hammond, David Carrigy, Daibhi O’Leary, Darragh Geraghty, Erica Grant and Dery Daly for all their great work. Without them the tour would not have been possible.

Written by Andy Cummiskey, UCD RFC Captain 2010/2011