Schools' Cup final - Principal praises players' character and determination

BALLYMENA Academy principal Ronnie Hassard has praised the efforts of the players, coaches and backroom staff who have contributed to the school's run to today's Northern Bank Schools' Cup final.

"There can be very few rugby players, former players, aficionados and alekadoos in Ulster, whatever their age, who do not envy the group of young men who'll have their own piece of rugby history on St. Patrick's Day.

"Of course these players have played for junior sides in school and it is important also to mention the numerous school coaches and parental volunteers who sustain this aspect of Ballymena Academy's sporting culture.

"This has been a tremendously exciting few weeks, for the players and also for the school. Excitement and expectations mounted as the team progressed against Limavady Grammar School and then survived two very close matches against Friends' School Lisburn before winning the semi-final against Methody, in equally dramatic circumstances.

"This group of players do not make life easy for their supporters, but their character and determination cannot be denied.

They have reacted to adversity with a great sense of unity; they have refused to admit defeat and work for each other right to the final whistle. They have earned their victories without playing fully to their potential.

"An unhelpful combination of injury and illness mean that team captain George Dennison has only recently returned to the side.

"In his absence, vice-captain Charlie Simpson - selected for Irish Schools earlier this season - took on the captaincy. In recognition of that invaluable contribution, he will have the honour of leading the side out and, as one of the senior players, his skills, his voice and his leadership will continue to be hugely influential in the final outcome. Rugby is a team game, however, and Charlie would want to focus on the squad's achievements.

"We applaud the way they have continued to express themselves on the field and we are proud of each one of them.

"Belfast Royal Academy will, as ever, provide formidable opposition and it will demand a doubly determined and disciplined performance if Ballymena Academy is to emerge as winner of the 2010 Schools' Cup," added Mr Hassard.