Investment in grassroots rugby plays an integral role in future World Cup success, it has been claimed this week.For Ferris, grassroots rugby clubs have a special meaning, especially as he started his career at the Portadown youth system. Bangor is one of 50 local clubs governed by Ulster Rugby, which has received around £605,000 of National Lottery funding in the past two years, which has gone towards numerous participation programmes.
“The funding we've received through The National Lottery has played a huge role in supporting staff, who in turn support clubs to deliver all their rugby activity,” said Webster. “But we also recognise that the majority of rugby within Ulster is delivered by volunteers and without volunteers and the funding provided to support them, we couldn't provide the playing opportunities we currently do.”
“Grassroots rugby is the most important aspect of the professional game because it is the long-term lifeblood of rugby within Ulster,” he said. “Accessibility is very important,” added Webster. “The chance for young people, and even some of the adults, to meet their heroes is really important and that creates a sense of connection and pride about rugby in Ulster.