When I joined the Full-time MBA programme at UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School in August of last year I never envisioned myself running around a pitch on a Friday evening in the torrential rain – let alone playing rugby. Well that’s exactly where I found myself three weeks ago when the MBA Rugby Club held its first training session! Although in a way I wasn’t complaining – at least I had something to blame for my lack of rugby skills!
The typical Irish weather did not deter the enthusiasm and dedication of some 40 club members, each one as determined as the next to travel to the MBA Rugby World Cup Championship in Danville VA, USA in April to defend our position as World Cup Champions for the 11th time! We are delighted to have Steve McIvor on board again this year as team coach to help us in our endeavour. The picture below was taken after training. Aren’t we a handsome bunch!
Off the pitch (and back in my comfort zone!) I am busy working with the Club’s leadership team seeking sponsorship, fundraising and arranging the itinerary for the trip. This year Smurfit Kappa have agreed to partner with us and we are very grateful for their continued support. As part of our fundraising activities we are hosting a raffle on 1st March. Morgan Stanley have kindly sponsored the prizes which include tickets for the Heineken Cup Final and Ireland v France Six Nations game.
I attended a ‘Sport for Business’ networking event last week. It was a very enjoyable night with some really simple ideas generated as to how small businesses can activate their brand through collaboration with rugby clubs. It’s amazing what can be achieved when a few people with a shared passion for rugby and business get together in one room!
My involvement in the MBA rugby club is proving to be one of the highlights of my MBA journey. It is allowing me the opportunity to do things that I would never have otherwise done and at the same time brush up on my rugby skills of a Friday evening!
– Therese O’ Rourke, FT MBA 12/13