The 43rd Annual Pat Lawler Blitz kicked off in UL Bohemian RFC, Annacotty, last Sunday.
The event is an U13 blitz that commemorates the life of former clubman, Pat Lawler, who sadly lost his life in 1983.
This year saw 12 teams taking part from Ennis, Garryowen, Richmond, Shannon, UL Bohemian, Thomond, St. Mary’s, Clonmel, Nenagh Ormond, Bruff and Naas.
Speaking about the importance of the event, UL Bohemian Director of Rugby, Andrew Lacey said:
“It is the first time these kids are playing 15-a-side, so it is a big deal in their rugby careers.
“It is so important that teams come here and everyone gets an opportunity to play, it is about participation, and while there is a bit of a competitive feel to it, we really just want kids to play.
“They get a minimum of five games. Then it gets to knockout stages, which overall can equate to about 100 minutes, which is absolutely fantastic for them and just brings them into that environment as well.”
The club were also joined by Munster and Ireland scrum-half, Craig Casey, on the day. The grandson of the late Pat Lawler, Craig spoke about how much the event means to his family and the memories he has from it over the years.
“Bohs are very good to us as a family, to recognise my grandad every year, I think it is the 43rd tournament now at this stage and they have been so good to us as a family, we are very appreciative of that, especially my granny.
“I remember when I played, we were playing teams from up the country which we normally wouldn’t have done so I think at this age to play as much rugby as you can get is so important, so fair play to everyone that makes it happen.”