I joined MU Barnhall in 1971 and served the customary 5 years freezing on the wing before finding my true position at scrum half. No notable playing achievements except that I captained the first MU Barnhall side to contest a Leinster Branch final Moran Cup in Donnybrook in 1983.
I found out on joining the club that once you raise your head above the parapet you find yourself on a committee. This happened to me in 1972 and bar 5 years absence through working elsewhere, I am still on committees.
The success of our club over the preceding years has depended very much on the selfless voluntary contributions made by so many people whether in Coaching, Refereeing, Bar People, Groundsman, Committee, DIY, Fundraising etc. I thank you all very much.
Also due a big thank you to our may sponsors, especially CCS Cleaning Services, Rye Valley Foods and Interface.
I wish our new Head Coach Dean Hakaria, our Club Captain Tom McKeown and all the coaching and management staff that look after our adult male and female teams every success this season. Also best wishes to our Mini and Youth sections and hope that rugby playing skills picked up along the way will ensure a constant supply of talent to our adult teams in the years to come.
The partnership formed between Maynooth University and Barnhall has added an exciting dimension to the club and will undoubtedly bring positive results.
I would appeal to all past players and members who must number in their thousands to come out and support the club particularly on All Ireland League Match Days. Why not join us for the Pre Match Lunch also.
I look forward to working with our Executive Committee in maintaining and improving our club. I will strive to maintain the high standards set by our previous President Sam Cawley.
Finally I would like to extend a warm and friendly welcome to our visiting teams and their supporters and hope that your time in our Club is an enjoyable one.
Yours in sport,
Eugene Charles
President of MY Barnhall RFC 2015-2016
