Ballymena RFC set for new season

BALLYMENA RFC FIRST XV, who were dangerously close to being relegated from AIL Division 2A, have put plans in place to make sure they don’t flirt with danger again this time round.

As the 2025/26 campaign approaches, there is cautious optimism at Eaton Park having strengthened both on and off the pitch.

Alasdair Frazer takes over as Director of Rugby after a series of successful seasons guiding Ballymena’s Youth, U21 and 2XV squads.

His focus is on long-term strategy and recruitment, vital for consolidating Ballymena’s place in Division 2A.

On the coaching side, John Nicholl (Head Coach) and Glenn Baillie (Backs Coach) return to provide continuity, while Ulster’s Marcus Rea rejoins his home club in a new role as Forwards Coach.

He is joined by Mark Neilly, the former Portadown coach, who takes on the role of Set Piece Coach. Neilly will add another layer of technical focus to the setup.

Experienced Signings

Perhaps the biggest boost for Ballymena comes in the form of two household Ulster names.

Andy Warwick, with more than 200 Ulster caps, returns home after retirement, while former Ulster captain Alan O’Connor is also on board, set to feature once he shakes off a minor injury.

Both bring invaluable leadership and top-level know-how.

They’re joined by Nathan Carroll, a former Brumbies out-half; Callum Davidson, a talented scrum-half and Schools’ Cup winner with Methody; and Lee Montgomery, a combative back row arriving from Rainey Old Boys.

Investing in Youth

Ballymena also continue their tradition of nurturing homegrown talent, with school leavers Matthew Wright, Justin Mark, and Angus Graham - all front-row prospects - stepping into the senior setup.

Many of last year’s rookies, who were thrust straight into AIL action from school, will also be better for the experience.

Reflecting on last season BRFC say that few clubs experienced the emotional rollercoaster of last season quite like Ballymena.

On the final day, with their AIL Division 2A status in doubt, the Braidmen believed their fate was sealed. Navan looked set to leapfrog them in the table with a 13–8 lead over Greystones in the dying minutes. At full-time, Ballymena’s sizeable travelling support and players were despondent, convinced a relegation playoff loomed.

Then came the twist. News filtered through of a last-gasp Greystones try, turning despair into jubilation. Ballymena survived, sparking relief and celebrations in Galway.

The Season Ahead

After finishing 8th last season, the goal is clear: improve results, especially with a stronger, more seasoned squad.

A tough start in the Ulster League has been hampered by unavailability, but with most players due back by the end of the month, there is belief Ballymena can hit the ground running.

The AIL campaign begins with a testing away trip to Old Crescent on Saturday, September 27, before Ballymena welcome Greystones to Eaton Park on October 4 for their first home fixture.

With experience added to youthful energy, and a coaching team blending continuity with fresh ideas, Ballymena enter the new campaign with renewed determination.

After last year’s final day escape, the club will hope this season is about steady progress rather than late drama.