On Friday the 26th of August, Guinness Rugby Club will play Tallaght Rugby Club in a pre-season match dedicated to the memory of Philip Preston.
The game, which will be attended by Philip’s family, will be the first in an annual fixture between our two clubs in memory of a real local legend.
Phillip played for many years down in Guinness Rugby Club before a broken leg saw him hang up his boots for a few years. When he made the decision to get back to playing rugby he was tempted to make his comeback with Guinness Rugby Club, but instead moved to Tallaght Rugby Club where he soon became an integral part of their set-up and helped them grow to be the club they are today.
For the last few years, Philip was Tallaght Rugby Clubs Youth Development Officer and was very active in growing Rugby in the Tallaght area. His commitment to his community was recognised by everyone in Tallaght last year, when he was named Tallaght Person of the Year (or Tallaght Man). His impact on the local community could also be seen by the huge Guard of Honour he received on the day of his funeral. This really was a true testiment to how loved he was by everyone – both inside and outside of rugby.
Philip was a team mate and friend to many players in both Guinness and Tallaght Rugby Clubs and we hope this match will in some small way do his memory proud. The game will kick off at 7pm in Guinness Rugby Club, on the Front Pitch.
After the game we will be heading up to the bar for some refreshments – and no doubt some Phillip Preston storytelling. Our annual Awards Ceremony for the 2015/16 Season will also take place during the course of the evenings events.
Everyone is welcome to join us and Phillips family as we kick off the new season by remembering a true friend.
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