President's Message 22.10.25

A cloud has hung over the Club for the past week after the devastating news of the passing of John Kirby, who tragically died last week in Austin, Texas, following an accident. ’Kirby’, as he was popularly known, was a much loved member of our Club. Mick Hearty put a lovely piece together on the Club’s website, and we are all thinking of his family and friends at this incredibly sad time. The Club and I have received so many heartfelt messages of support from the rugby community, and I thought I’d share the contents of a letter received from Garryowen, our opponents on Saturday. This captures the essence of the messages we have received.

‘Dear Mick

Everyone at Garryowen FC is deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of John Kirby.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to John’s family, friends, teammates and everyone at Blackrock College RFC during this incredibly difficult time.

The rugby community is one big family, and we stand with you in your grief and hope that you can find comfort in the support of the wider rugby community.

Rest in peace John Kirby’

This weekend in remembrance of John Kirby, the Club will retire the No. 1 jersey in all Men's games, including 1st XV, 2nd XV and Castle XV. John played for all 3 of these teams in the Club. Each game will also have a moments silence before kickoff. May he rest in eternal peace.

I was delighted to attend the Women’s matches in Railway Union on Saturday. Our firsts had their first victory in 3 years over Railway 29-10… what a performance and they are well positioned towards the top of the AIL table. They return to Stradbrook this Saturday when they play Ballincollig at 5pm as part of an AIL double header.

Women's AIL, League Table

The Women's seconds team also played Railway and unfortunately came out the wrong end of a 32-17 result. This was a friendly game and should put us in a good place as we face Greystones in the Metro Cup this Thursday at 8pm in Stradbrook.

I enjoyed watching our u17s beat Barnhall 26-19 in a cup match on Sunday. It was nice to see so many parents and families out supporting the lads.

And so moving onto this weekend, in addition to the women’s 2nds on Thursday evening, the rescheduled Men's J1 game vs UCD kicks off on Friday night at 8pm, with the firsts at 2.30 vs Garryowen and finally the women firsts at 5pm… it's a Super Saturday in store. I urge as many people as possible to get down and support our teams. The Leinster match will be showing in the bar and we have organised live music after the Leinster match. Let’s make it a fun-filled Club day.

Another reminder of our Gala Dinner on 19^th November in the Shelbourne. Final arrangements are being put in place and there are still one or two tables to be filled. I can guarantee it will be enjoyable and a hugely important fundraiser for the Club.

After a difficult week for the Club, we look forward to a busy weekend of rugby. Let’s get down to Stradbrook to support all of our teams and experience the hospitality, camaraderie and friendships that our Club has to offer. You won’t be disappointed!

All the best,

Mick

Mick Dwan

President 2025/ 2026

Blackrock College RFC