De la Salle Palmerston FC has an unrivalled history in Leinster mini rugby. Nearly 35 years ago, it had the proud distinction of becoming the first rugby club to introduce a mini rugby nursery to the province…

“Rugby clubs in Leinster are looking forward to an increase in players’ numbers next season due to Leinster’s success in the Heineken Cup, Ireland’s Grand Slam and the huge coverage of the Lions tour to South Africa”, says Ciaran Daly, Chairperson of De la Salle Palmerston FC’s Mini and Youth section.

“Never before have we had so many enquiries as to when will the season starts for the Mini and Youth section of our club, which is great news for both the game and our club.”

Since the mini section was founded in 1974, literally thousands of children have passed through its impressive facilities at Kirwan Park, with two current Leinster Heineken Cup medal winners Luke Fitzgerald and Malcolm O’Kelly (both of whom have also been capped by the British and Irish Lions) being among those who have graduated to the highest level of the game, having started out in Kilternan.

This year DLSP are having an open day on Sunday the 30th August from 10am to 12.30pm and they hope that many parents will come along with their children to meet the coaches, other parents, players and view the impressive facilities.

DLSP has a reputation as a solid club with a strong Mini Youth section. Starting as young as 6 years, the majority of its players progress through to the senior ranks.

Boys and girls from the age of 6 learn the basics of the game in a controlled environment, while the emphasis is on enjoyment and fun allowing children to reach their own standard. Playing games among themselves and other teams helps build camaraderie and a sense of belonging.

At the younger ages games are played for fun, keeping the players between the lines and running in the right direction is a result. At the older age groups experienced coaches develop skills of their teams.

If you think your child would like to play rugby then please call up to DLSP, Kilternan on the 30th August and meet the coaches, the players and other parents.

All are welcome.