As part of the ‘Rugby for All’ initiative, along with ex-rugby player Ian McKinley, Power NI visited four mixed ability/tag rugby clubs across Northern Ireland in 2024.
We spoke to players and coaches from Ballymoney Blue Jays, Malone Tornadoes, Newforge Taggers and Portadown Panthers about what the future looks like for mixed ability and tag rugby not only in Northern Ireland, but across the island of Ireland.
Two years on, we caught up with the four clubs again to find out how they are getting on, and their hopes for the future.
Ballymoney Blue Jays are a team for children aged 6 -12 who have physical, sensory, and learning difficulties, based in North Antrim.
Co-Ordinator Tracy Hanna says the club is in a strong position, where new players continue to come each season, improving playing numbers.
“We’re in a place where we have new players coming to the team currently. Engaging with schools in the area, both special needs, and mainstream has been key. Some children in mainstream schools may have additional needs, and we’re trying to have those joining the team.”
By dealing with children aged 12 and under, Tracy says the key is making sure the players thrive in a fun environment, making sure each child enjoys the journey.
“It’s all about giving players the opportunity. Some will jump on the grass straight away, while some take longer. It’s all about allowing these players the chance to play, no matter how long it takes.
“The Blue Jays are part of the wider Ballymoney RFC family, and it’s a great way of having players coming to the grounds outside of the training sessions!
“We’d love to be able to travel to matches away from home. We’ve been invited to blitzes, but there is a comfort and confidence in staying at home for the players. If we can keep them playing, and have some older players join, we will be in a great spot” she concluded.
Malone Tornadoes are a mixed ability team based in Belfast. One of the most successful teams on the island of Ireland, they have represented the country on a global stage at the Mixed Ability World Cup in 2025.
“We are in a great position where we have competed in a World Cup, and travelled around Ireland, and to England too”, Player Facilitator Ashley Mulligan revealed.
“Our team’s enthusiasm never stops. Numbers are always strong, but we could always have more Player Facilitators on the pitch. On the flipside, the team has developed so much that they can fill in those gaps and have stepped up showing what they can do. It’s a win for the players and helps the older players too!”
Ashley is one of the senior players on the team, and he has seen those younger than him thrive both on and off the pitch, as they continue to grow!
“The players’ confidence has grown so much in recent years. It’s incredible to see our player base continues to grow, and we would love to see more women become involved in the next few years. We want to be a club that is open to all, and to all abilities.”
Newforge Taggers are based in Belfast, and are a tag rugby team, for players with learning disabilities. Last year, the team met King Charles after he visited a training session.
“It was an incredibly special day”, Committee Member, Nikki Gregg revealed. “It’s a day the players won't forget in a hurry. Meeting King Charles was a fabulous way to show what we are and what we do!”
Looking ahead to the future, the team are focusing on what they can do to help players in the area, play a game they love, engaging with the wider rugby community.
“We want to ensure that everyone’s needs are met in the club, and being on social media is a big help in doing that.
“Zack and Bryn Ward are patrons of the club, and both are always up and watching. They’re very engaged with the players which is a great reinforcement for the players, having their idols on the sides as role models.
“Our main team plays in a mainstream league, which helps them progress too both on and off the field. These leagues are extending the players and are a brilliant way to meet new teams too!”
Portadown Panthers are a tag rugby team for players with learning disabilities that welcome players from the south-east corner of Northern Ireland.
Chairperson Karen Flack says playing numbers thankfully continue to rise in Chambers Park.
“We’re now up to 50 or so players, having only begun at 6, so it has grown massively in recent years.
“Our players love being on the field. They’re happiest when having a ball in their hand and it’s amazing to see. We are lucky to have had a very high player retention rate, which shows how much the players love coming to the club.
While success remains on the pitch, Karen knows it takes the support of parents and those not playing to make sure the Panthers remain a success.
“The key to having a successful team on the pitch, is having everyone rowing together off the pitch. The IRFU and Ulster Rugby are always there to help around equipment and ideas. We couldn’t do it without any of them.
“Word of mouth has been key with the parents too. We take the feedback on board. We keep learning. It’s the only way to improve!”
