The “Donnybrook Strand” holds a special place in Irish rugby history, a nickname that perfectly captured the state of Donnybrook’s rugby pitch throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. The ground maintenance strategy was remarkably straightforward, if unconventional: dump truckloads of sand onto the playing surface as winter approached. As the season progressed, this sand would compact under the relentless pounding of rugby boots, creating a unique playing surface that became legendary among players and spectators alike. The pitch saw constant action throughout the Irish winter. School teams would battle it out in midweek matches, while weekends were reserved for All-Ireland…

Want to continue reading?

Introductory offer: Sign up today and pay €200 for an annual membership, a saving of €50.

Subscribe

Cancel at any time.

Are you already a member? .