Connacht youngsters relishing Aviva opportunity

The event, which is supported by Aviva, will see over 300 young rugby players - boys and girls - from all over Ireland get a once in a lifetime opportunity to play at the Aviva.

The festival will see 32 schools from all four provinces play at the home of Irish Rugby.

They will enjoy this opportunity to follow in the footsteps of their heroes.

For many, this memorable day will see their first steps into a long involvement with the game.

Mark Russell, Aviva sponsorship manager, said: "Generally it's the big international matches that grab the limelight at the stadium, but every so often we get to put on something like the Irish Rugby Schools Festival.

"It gives every player on the day that big-match feeling, to experience what it is like to run onto the pitch and play where all their heroes have played.

"We are delighted to welcome all 32 teams and their family and friends to the stadium for a day they will never forget."

Eight schools from each province will take part in what promises to be a memorable day for all involved.

Connacht will be represented by boys' teams from Gortnor Abbey of Crossmollina, St Jarlath's of Tuam, St Muredeachs of Ballina, Colaiste Muire Ballymote, St Mary's College in Ballygar and Scoil Chuimsitheacht Chiaráin, An Cheathru Rua.

And Connacht girls' schools rugby will also be represented by Ard Scoil Mhuire of Ballinasloe and Sacred Heart Westport.