The Bulldogs had a really positive 1st half of the season, both on the field and off the field. We operate in 2 competitions, the SSI (Student Sport Ireland) national competition and the South Munster J2 league. Under the captainship of Ross McAuliffe we had a great win down in Waterpark against SETU Waterford in the 1st round of the SSI. These have traditionally been our nemesis, so it was a really good start to the campaign.

That was followed by a home win against Clonakilty in the league and an away win against MTU Kerry in the SSI. By now the games were coming thick and fast at us, and our squad depth came to the fore. We have managed to rotate the squad as much as possible, giving people as much game time as we can. The players responded and stood tall when called on.
Subsequent J2 League wins against Sundays Well (H), Bandon (A) during Storm Claudia and a home win against Cork Con – all with bonus points – sees us in good stead at the top of the league. Our game in Highfield was called off in December, so we will have a very busy schedule in the new year.

Unfortunately, we lost to a very strong MTU Cork team in the final SSI round robin game, which meant we had to travel to play UG in Limerick. We lost in a very tight match 34-32. We came from 21-3 down after 15 minutes to be leading with a minute to go. But a last-minute penalty sealed our fate. Our squad was vital at this stage, as we had played Bandon the previous Friday and had Con 2 days later. Without our strength in depth, this would not be possible. However, if UCC is serious about winning the J2 Munster League and the SSI Cup, we will need to utilise all of the assets at the club’s disposal after the Christmas break.

The Bulldogs are a unique enough breed. This year we have three American players, a Canadian, a Swedish player, as well as players from Offaly, Galway, Westmeath, Limerick, Clare, Tipperary, Kerry, Waterford and Cork. It is remarkable the bond that they have formed in such a short time. Long may it continue.

Off the field, the Bulldogs enthusiasm for playing is matched by their enthusiasm for the social side of things. There has been a healthy number of nights out to date. With our tour to Barcelona coming up in February of this year, you can be confidant that the Bulldogs social reputation will be maintained in the 25/26 season.

Nothing happens like this without a serious effort. Shout out to the team of coaches, Conor Shalloe, Rory Morrison, Philip Nathan and Manager Tim Murphy – chapeau to you all!

Ronan Nangle
Head Coach