Coleraine Rugby Club opens season with fresh optimism under Andy Ward

THE 2025/26 rugby season is underway and Coleraine Rugby Club’s senior men’s sides marked their opening weekend with performances that showed grit, promise and a renewed sense of ambition.
With the First XV determined to bounce back in Championship Three and the Second XV continuing their steady progress in the Provincial North League, the tone has been set for an exciting campaign.

Ward’s Leadership: A New Chapter for Coleraine
At the heart of Coleraine’s resurgence is head coach Andy Ward, a name synonymous with Irish rugby.
Ward, a former Ulster and Ireland international and ex-Ulster captain, has brought a wealth of top-level experience to the club.
Known for his relentless work ethic and uncompromising style as a player, Ward has quickly instilled those same values in Coleraine’s senior squads.
After what was a challenging year that saw the First XV slip down to Championship Three, Ward has spoken openly about turning adversity into opportunity.
“It’s about building from the ground up,” he said ahead of the season opener.
“We’ve got the talent, we’ve got the heart, and if we commit to the hard work, there’s no reason we can’t push ourselves back to where we belong.”
Ward’s leadership, supported by First XV manager Chris Coils and Second XV manager Willie Warke, has already reinvigorated the players and brought a clear sense of direction to the club.

First XV: Statement Win in Cavan
Coleraine’s First XV wasted no time in showing their intent, claiming a 27–17 away victory over Cavan in their first league outing.
The performance was full of confidence and structure, suggesting Ward’s influence is already paying dividends.
Tries came from Dean Rankin, Matthew Robinson and Jordan Anderson, with co-captain Joel Chambers stepping up superbly in the absence of injured co-captain Zach Herald to add a series of assured conversions and penalties.
The match was highlighted by a tireless defensive effort and sharp counterattacking play.
Jordan Neely produced a standout performance, earning Man of the Match for his commanding work across the park.
Manager Chris Coils praised the squad’s commitment: “It’s never easy going away from home on the first day of the season but the boys showed real hunger.
“There’s a buzz about this team and you can feel the belief coming back.”

Second XV: Heart and Promise Against
Ballymoney
While the Second XV fell to a narrow 22–15 defeat against Ballymoney Third XV, there was much to be encouraged about.
With several players making their senior debuts, the team displayed a mixture of youthful energy and veteran leadership that bodes well for the months ahead.
Tries from long-serving stalwarts Sam Beattie and DD McAlister demonstrated that Coleraine’s experienced core remains as dangerous as ever.
Adam Bell added a penalty and conversion, keeping his composure in key moments.
Captain Jonny Warke led from the front, rallying his side until the final whistle, while Warren McKessick earned Man of the Match honours for his all-action display.
Manager Willie Warke praised the spirit shown: “It’s great to see so many new faces stepping up. We may not have got the result, but this was a performance we can build on.”

A Season of Opportunity
With Ward at the helm, the ambition of the senior squads is clear: restore Coleraine’s competitive edge, nurture the next generation of players and ensure the club’s values of resilience, teamwork and passion shine through.
The First XV’s victory in Cavan is a statement of intent, while the Second XV’s battling effort against Ballymoney highlights the depth of character and talent emerging within the squad.
As Ward himself put it: “We’ve only just started, but the commitment is there.
“This season is about setting standards, raising expectations, and showing that Coleraine rugby is moving forward.”
With renewed belief and strong foundations, Coleraine Rugby Club heads into the 2025/26 campaign with plenty to look forward to, both on and off the field.