Nenagh Municipal District hosts civic reception for Nenagh Ormond RFC

Nenagh Municipal District hosted a Civic Reception on Friday 12th September to honour the achievements of Nenagh Ormond RFC in the 2024/2025 season and, in particular:

• Their promotion to Division 1A of the All-Ireland League
• Becoming the first ever Tipperary Rugby Club to win the Munster Senior Challenge Cup
• Victories in both the Mansergh Cup and the Charity Cup

On the night, Cathaoirleach of Nenagh MD, Cllr. Phyll Bugler presented a framed scroll to Tony Wells, President, 2025/2026 commemorating these achievements. A beautiful piece, created by Metal & Mallet, was jointly presented by Cllr. Bugler and Cllr John Carroll, Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, to John Long, President 2024/2025 and Director of Rugby. Donnacha Ryan of Metal & Mallet who crafted the piece was present on the night.

The piece in question, with a shape that draws from that of the rugby ball, is very much based on the crest of the club that is worn so proudly on the Club jerseys. The red and white colours feature strongly with the shamrocks, which feature on the crest, outlined in red and white. The main feature is the Castle which also features on the crest. Different types of wood are used with bog oak showing the connection with the past - a club with a proud tradition reaching back to 1884. The home-grown talent is represented by native species - oak, silver birch and ash - while the use of mahogany and eucalyptus reminds us of the contribution made by foreign players down through the years. The base of the piece depicts the club’s roots going back to when it all started in 1884.

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In addition to honouring the successes on the field the contribution made by Nenagh Ormond RFC to Nenagh through development of a thriving community hub at New Ormond Park with first-class facilities – playing fields and clubhouse was recognised. It was also noted that the Club caters for a wide range of ages and for male and female, fielding three adult teams, underage girls’ teams and ten underage teams from U7 to U20. This commitment to development at all levels has been built up through many years and shows the dedication to training and coaching that is a cornerstone of the Club’s success.

Nenagh Ormond has proudly produced three Irish full internationals:
Tony Courtney – 7 caps (1899–1970)
Trevor Hogan – Munster & Leinster, debut vs Japan (2005)
Donnacha Ryan – 47 caps, debut vs Argentina (2008)

Cathaoirleach of Nenagh MD, Cllr. Phyll Bugler, paid tribute to the dedication and commitment shown by all those involved with Nenagh Ormond RFC. She referred to the importance of sport in the lives of young people and the need for a balanced approach which ensured that, as well as pursuing sporting excellence, there was an opportunity for widespread involvement from all catering for those who wish to play at any level of expertise.

With over 140 years of history, Nenagh Ormond RFC continues to inspire future generations, foster community pride, and represent North Munster rugby at the highest level — both on and off the field. Long may it continue.