Tullamore Rugby Club gear up for big year – on and off the field

TULLAMORE Rugby Club are gearing up for a big year, on and off the field. With their firsts mens' side relegated from the All-Ireland League Division 2C after several years in senior rugby, they will be very keen to challenge for Leinster League honours.

One of the biggest and most progressive sports clubs in Offaly, Tullamore Rugby Club are also in the midst of a major upgrade of their facilities at Spollanstown.

They will be relaunching their fundraising drive, the 500 Club Development, at their first home game in the Leinster League Division 1 against Tullow on Saturday, September 20

Founded in 1937, Tullamore Rugby Club has a great tradition and has been an integral part of the sporting scene in Tullamore and surrounds since then.

They currently field 23 teams between mens, women, youths and their disability side, the Tullamore Tigers. This growth in numbers has put strain on their facilities and they have embarked on an ambitious programme of development, acquiring extra land, increasing the number of pitches and enhancing their infrastructure.

The new pitches are ready for the 2025/2026 season with floodlights on some. The development includes a 4G training area and 1.5km of a floodlit community walking track, which they hope to start working on soon. A new entrance, additional parking and improvements to the gym, changing room and club house are other components of the plans.

They are now hoping that members, supporters and others will help meet the extensive financial costs by supporting the 500 Club initiative. They are asking 500Club members to donate €500 to the project, in either one lump son, two instalments of €250, four instalments of €125 or monthly payments across two years – patrons will also be asked to sign a “tax relief for donations” form which will allow the club to claim tax relief on your donation.

People interested in donating can contact any club officer or email: 500Club@tullamorerugby.com for further information. Each subscriber will have their name on a donor's wall at the grounds and there will also be quarterly draws for members.

Tullamore Rugby Club have three adults mens team with the firsts in the Leinster League Division 1A, the J2s in the Leinster Seconds League Division 1A and the J3s in the Metro League Division 6. The womens' team are in the Leinster League Division 1 and there are youths teams at all age levels.

Tullamore Rugby Club president Jimmy Martin remarked:

“It is a great honour and privilege to welcome you all to the 2025/2026 season as President of Tullamore Rugby Club. Our club has always stood for more than just rugby - it represents friendship, teamwork, and pride.

“This year, I look forward to building on the hard work of those who came before me, continuing to strengthen our teams from minis to seniors, and ensuring our players at every level have the opportunity to thrive. This is made possible by the dedication of our coaches, volunteers, committee members, and the support of our sponsors and loyal supporters. A special mention to all the referees who make the game happen. To all of you, I extend my deepest gratitude.

“I would like to wish all our players an enjoyable and successful season. Play with passion, respect, and commitment, wearing the Tullamore jersey with pride. To our supporters - your presence on the sidelines and in the clubhouse inspires us all, and we look forward to sharing a memorable season together.

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“Our exciting Rugby Campus and Pitch development continues, and together we can build a lasting home for future generations.

“Here’s to a season filled with great rugby, lasting friendships, and continued growth for our club. Together, we will make 2025/2026 a season to remember.”