Ulster Rugby#Ulster A

File:Map of IRFU provincial branches.svg

A number of clubs were operating in Ulster prior to the foundation of the Irish Rugby Football Union and the Ulster branch. The Belfast-based North of Ireland F.C., founded in 1868, was the earliest club to operate in the province. Clubs from this era still in existence include Dungannon and Queen's University. The first Irish inter-provincial game took place in 1875 between Ulster and Leinster, with Ulster being the victors.{{cite book |last=Peter |first=Richard |title=The Origins and Development of Football in Ireland |year=1999 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=oeaoZHiDaxoC&q=leinster+ulster+first+ever+interprovincial+1875&pg=PA6 |location=Belfast |publisher=Ulster Historical Foundation |page=6 |isbn=0-901905-93-3 }} In {{nrut|Ireland}}'s first international match, which was played in 1875 against {{nrut|England}}, eight Ulster-based players took part. Rugby in Ulster at this time was mostly overseen by the Irish Football Union, with the Northern Football Union of Ireland controlling the game in Belfast. The two unions amalgamated in 1879, with the provincial branches of Ulster, Leinster and Munster being founded as part of the terms of this arrangement.{{cite web |url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/irfu/history/history.php |work=Irish Rugby |title=History of the Irish Rugby Football Union |access-date=22 April 2018}} The final Irish provincial side, Connacht, was founded in 1885.{{cite web |url=http://www.advertiser.ie/galway/article/84455/connacht-rugby |work=Galway Advertiser |title=Connacht Rugby |date=28 April 2016 |access-date=22 April 2018}}

During the amateur era Irish players primarily played for their respective clubs, with provincial games effectively treated as Irish trial matches.{{cite web |url=http://www.rugbynetwork.net/main/s505/st93252.htm |work=Connacht Rugby Supporters |title=Ray McLoughlin - Connacht Rugby Legend |date=25 March 2006 |access-date=31 January 2018}} The provincial teams were also used to provide competitive club opposition for touring international sides. Inter-provincial games were played on an irregular basis but starting in the 1946–47 season, the provinces played against each other in the annual Irish Interprovincial Championship. Ulster won this tournament 26 times in total, with eight of these titles being shared.

Ulster first appointed a coach in 1969. The first three coaches enjoyed great success in the Interprovincial Championship. Under Ken ArmstrongPeter McMullan, "Ken Armstrong to coach Ulster XV", Belfast Telegraph, 17 June 1969 Ulster won the title unbeaten in 1969 and 1970, and finished second, losing only once, in 1971.John Redmond, "Armstrong Gives Up The Reins of Ulster Rugby", Irish Press, 24 December 1971 He was succeeded by Maurice Crabbe, under whom Ulster shared the title in 1972, came third in 1973, and won it in 1974. George Spotswood then led Ulster to a shared title in 1975, an unbeaten championship in 1976, and another shared title in 1976. Under Cecil Watson, Ulster came third in 1978 and fourth in 1979, and came third in 1980 under Matt Gillen, before form began to return under Willie John McBride, who led them to second place in 1981 and a shared title in 1982.

Their most sustained period of success began under Jimmy Davidson. In his first season, 1983, Ulster finished third, before he led them to three straight undefeated championships in 1984–86. Harry Williams succeeded him, and under him Ulster shared the title in 1987 and won three straight undefeated titles in 1988–90. Then Davy McMaster led Ulster to two undefeated titles in 1991 and 1992, and a shared title in 1991. Under these three coaches, Ulster won or shared ten Interprovincial Championships in a row.{{cite web |url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/history/css/arch_history_116.htm |work=Irish Rugby |title=Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 442 |access-date=7 January 2018 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304071622/http://www.irishrugby.ie/history/css/arch_history_116.htm |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/history/css/arch_history_117.htm |work=Irish Rugby |title=Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 443 |access-date=7 January 2018 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304084006/http://www.irishrugby.ie/history/css/arch_history_117.htm |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.irishrugby.ie/history/css/arch_history_118.htm |work=Irish Rugby |title=Irish Rugby 1874–1999 — A History: INTERPROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS page 444 |access-date=7 January 2018 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304085534/http://www.irishrugby.ie/history/css/arch_history_118.htm |url-status=dead }}

Brian Bloomfield was the final coach of the amateur era, coming joint second in 1994.

After rugby union was declared open to professionalism in 1995, the IRFU gradually developed the provincial sides as professional teams.[https://www.dai-sport.com/irish-provinces-moulded-history-modernity-leave-welsh-regions-trailing-far-behind/ "How The Irish Provinces Moulded History With Modernity To Leave The Welsh Regions Trailing So Far Behind"], Dai Sport, 21 January 2019 The Heineken Cup was launched in 1995 to provide a new level of European cross-border competition,{{cite web |url=http://www.ercrugby.com/eng/37_74.php |title=European Rugby Cup : History |publisher=ERC |access-date=21 March 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070208134810/http://www.ercrugby.com/eng/37_74.php |archive-date=8 February 2007}} and Ulster, coached by Harry Williams and captained by David Humphreys, became the first Irish team to win it in the 1998–99 season, beating beat French side US Colomiers 21–6 in the final at Lansdowne Road in Dublin.{{cite web |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby-union-european-cup-final-ulster-take-a-red-carpet-ride-1077314.html |work=The Independent |title=Rugby Union: European Cup final - Ulster take a red-carpet ride |date=31 January 1999 |access-date=22 April 2018}}

The Celtic League, featuring all four Irish provinces plus teams from Scotland and Wales, was launched in 2001."Celtic League gets green light to kick off in August", Evening Herald, 31 May 2001 From 2001 to 2004, the Ulster team was coached by Alan Solomons, a former assistant coach of the Springboks and head coach of The Stormers and Western Province in his native South Africa. Solomons coached Ulster to a three-year unbeaten home record in the Heineken Cup.{{cite web |title=Alan Solomons Director of Rugby |url=https://warriors.co.uk/teams/alan-solomons/ |website=Worcester Warriors |access-date=24 September 2021}} In the 2003–04 season, Ulster finished second in the Celtic League, only overtaken by Llanelli on the final day of the campaign. Two of Ulster's most impressive achievements in this period were a 33–0 win over English giants Leicester Tigers in the Heineken Cup in January 2004,Gavin Mairs, "Wisdom of Solomons in finest hour", Belfast Telegraph, 12 January 2004 and winning the inaugural Celtic Cup on 20 December 2003, beating Edinburgh in a rain-soaked Murrayfield final.[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/irish/3324669.stm "Ulster hold on for victory"], BBC Sport, 20 December 2003

Solomons was succeeded by Mark McCall, former captain of the province and a member of Ulster's Heineken Cup winning squad,[https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/mccall-gets-call-to-coach-ulster-1.1136572 "McCall gets call to coach Ulster"], The Irish Times, 23 March 2004 with former teammate Allen Clarke as his assistant,[https://www.espn.co.uk/rugby/story/_/id/15373851/clarke-named-assistant-coach-ulster "Clarke named assistant coach at Ulster"], ESPN, 8 April 2004 and Ulster's unbeaten home run in Europe was extended to four years.{{cite web |title=Gloucester lose their foothold in Belfast bog |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2005/jan/08/rugbyunion.heinekencup2004052 |website=The Guardian |date=8 January 2005 |access-date=24 September 2021}}{{cite web |title=Ulster 19 - 10 Saracens |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2005/dec/10/rugbyunion.heinekencup2005061 |website=The Guardian |date=10 December 2005 |access-date=24 September 2021}} Dominant forward play by Australian lock Justin Harrison, New Zealand-born Irish scrum-half Isaac Boss, and a rapid maturing of a youthful home-grown three-quarter line made Ulster champions of the 2005–06 Celtic League. On the last day of the season, the title came down between Ulster and Leinster, before being decided in Ulster's favour by a 40-metre David Humphreys drop goal against Ospreys.[http://rd.pro12rugby.com/matchcentre/4596.php "Humphreys drop snatches title for Ulster"], Pro12 Rugby, 26 May 2006

Ulster started the 2006–07 season well, including beating Toulouse 30–3 in the Heineken Cup.Tom Glover, [https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/ulster-30-toulouse-3-humphreys-master-of-the-guillotine-421118.html "Ulster 30 Toulouse 3: Humphreys master of the guillotine"], The Independent, 22 October 2006 But this form did not continue, they were eliminated from the competition early, and finished fifth in the Celtic League. Back row forward Roger Wilson was Player of the Year.Gavin Mairs, "Rory heads for World Cup as Personality of the Year", Belfast Telegraph, 18 May 2007

File:Opreys v Ulster 2008.jpg

The team began the 2007-08 season with a poor run of results, and Mark McCall resigned in November following Ulster's embarrassing 32–14 home defeat to Gloucester in the opening round of the 2007–08 Heineken Cup.{{cite news |url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12332_2879933,00.html |title=Ulster coach quits |work=Sky Sports |date=13 November 2007}} Assistant coach Steve Williams took temporary charge, and Matt Williams took charge in February, but failed to turn the season around, with Ulster finishing 9th in the 10 team Celtic League. Centre Darren Cave made his debut from the academy.Ciaran Donaghy, "Cave finds ray of light in shape of first start for Ulster", Belfast Telegraph, 6 October 2007 At the end of the season wing Tommy Bowe, who was named Player of the Year,Richard Mulligan, "Humphreys steals the limelight while Monaghan boy Bowe bows out in style", News Letter, 16 May 2008 left for Ospreys.[https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/bowe-to-join-ospreys-1.1220070 "Bowe to join Ospreys"], Irish Times, 25 January 2008 Roger Wilson went to Northampton Saints.{{cite web|url=http://www.northamptonsaints.co.uk/3831_4543.php |title=Double signing strengthens Saints squad |access-date=2008-01-27 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160208035907/http://www.northamptonsaints.co.uk/3831_4543.php |archivedate=February 8, 2016 }} Out-half David Humphreys retired, and was appointed the province's Director of Operations.Richard Mulligan, "New Role in Ulster for Humphreys", News Letter, 5 June 2008

The following season out-half Ian Humphreys, David's younger brother, was signed from Leicester Tigers.[https://www.thefrontrowunion.com/2020/05/ulsters-maverick-out-half-ian-humphreys/ "Ulster’s maverick out half: Ian Humphreys"], The Front Row Union, 6 May 2020 Ulster finished third in their Heineken Cup group and eighth in the Celtic League, and Williams resigned.{{cite news |url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,15184_5340113,00.html |title=Williams leaves Ulster |work=Sky Sports |date=21 May 2009}} Hooker Rory Best was Player of the Year.Richard Mulligan, "Ferris claims top accolade", News Letter, 15 May 2009

For the 2009-10 season a new management structure was put in place, with David Humphreys as director of rugby and Brian McLaughlin as head coach, assisted by Jeremy Davidson and Neil Doak. New signings included lock Dan Tuohy from Exeter.Richard Mulligan, "New signings given an early opportunity", News Letter, 19 August 2009 Centre Nevin Spence made his debut from the academy.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-19615900 "Nevin Spence: Ulster rugby player"], BBC News, 16 September 2012 The season saw an improvement in Ulster's Heineken Cup form, including their first away win in England against Bath,[https://www.thefrontrowunion.com/2010/01/bath-10-ulster-28/?rcp_action=lostpassword "Bath 10 Ulster 28"], The Front Row Union, 24 January 2010 but they finished eighth in the Celtic League. Flanker Chris Henry was Player of the Year.Richard Mulligan, "Henry hat-trick caps super year", News Letter, 21 May 2010 At the end of the season, scrum-half Isaac Boss left for Leinster,{{cite web |url=http://www.leinsterrugby.ie/newsroom/4833.php |title=Leinster Rugby : Leinster announce squad for 2010/11... |website=www.leinsterrugby.ie |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100619084545/http://www.leinsterrugby.ie/newsroom/4833.php |archive-date=2010-06-19}} and prop Justin Fitzpatrick retired.[https://www.irishrugby.ie/2010/08/30/fitzpatrick-takes-charge-of-dungannon/ "Fitzpatrick Takes Charge Of Dungannon"], Irish Rugby, 30 August 2010

The 2010-11 season saw significant improvement. Ulster signed key players including 2007 Rugby World Cup winning Springboks Ruan Pienaar"Ulster secure signing of 'Boks star Pienaar", Irish Independent, 28 May 2010 and Johann Muller."Springbok duo are straight into fray", News Letter, 13 August 2010 Out-half Paddy Jackson.[https://www.newsletter.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/rugby-paddy-jackson-agrees-two-year-ulster-contract-extension-1147864 "RUGBY: Paddy Jackson agrees two-year Ulster contract extension"], News Letter, 1 March 2017 and centre Luke Marshall[https://www.independent.ie/sport/rugby/pro14/marshall-gets-chance-to-showcase-talent-26708012.html "Marshall gets chance to showcase talent"], Irish Independent, 25 February 2011 made their debuts from the academy. Ulster made the semi-finals of the Celtic League and the quarter-finals of the Heineken Cup. Ruan Pienaar was Player of the Year.Niall Crozier, "Boks bag top gongs at awards", Belfast Telegraph, 11 May 2011

New signings for the 2011-12 season included prop John Afoa{{cite web |url=http://www.ulsterrugby.com/news/9144.php |title=Ulster Sign All-Black Prop John Afoa |work=Ulster Rugby |date=16 March 2011}} and utility back Jared Payne.{{cite web |url=http://www.theblues.co.nz/News/2011-4-1/Payne-signs-with-Ulster.aspx |title=Payne signs with Ulster |date=1 April 2011 |work=The Blues}} Academy lock Iain Henderson made his senior debut.[https://www.rugbyworld.com/players/iain-henderson-ten-things-should-know-125268 "Who is Iain Henderson: Ten things you should know about the Ireland lock"], Rugby World, 10 June 2021 Ulster reached the Heineken Cup final, losing to Leinster at Twickenham.{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/heineken-cup/2012/0519/321612-leinster-42-14-ulster/|title=Leinster 42-14 Ulster|work=RTÉ Sport|publisher=RTÉ|date=19 May 2012|access-date=19 May 2012}} The Celtic League had been renamed the Pro12 after the addition of two Italian teams, and Ulster finished sixth. Brian McLaughlin was replaced as head coach by Mark Anscombe.[https://dementedmole.com/2018/03/04/its-grim-up-north-ulsters-malaise/ "It's Grim Up North - Ulster's Malaise"], Digging Like a Demented Mole, 4 March 2018 Flanker Chris Henry was Player of the Year."Ferris lost for words as he scoops top Ulster award", News Letter, 12 May 2012

New signings for the 2012–13 season included back row forward Nick Williams from the now defunct Aironi,[http://www.ulsterrugby.com/news/10598.php Williams signs for Ulster] Ulster Rugby, 22 June 2012 wing Tommy Bowe, returning from his four-year stay at the Ospreys,{{cite news| url=http://www.irishtimes.com/sports/rugby/2012/0306/1224312898341.html | newspaper=The Irish Times | title=Bowe going back to his roots}} back row forward Roger Wilson, returning from Northampton Saints,{{Cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/17274581|title = Ospreys' Bowe signs Ulster deal|work = BBC Sport}} and Irish-qualified South African hooker Rob Herring, initially on a six-month trial.[https://ulsterrugbylad.co.uk/rugby-thoughts/ulster-rugby-lad-meets-rob-herring/ "Ulster Rugby Lad meets… Rob Herring"], Ulster Rugby Lad, undated Out-half Ian Humphreys left for London Irish.{{Cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/17952392|title = Humphreys signs for London Irish|work = BBC Sport}} Centre Nevin Spence died in an accident at the family farm.{{cite web|url=http://www.thescore.ie/ulster-star-nevin-spence-dies-in-accident-on-co-down-farm-597031-Sep2012|title=Ulster star Nevin Spence dies in accident on Co. Down farm|access-date=16 September 2012|date=16 September 2012|publisher=thescore.ie|url-status=dead|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120917000755/http://www.thescore.ie/ulster-star-nevin-spence-dies-in-accident-on-co-down-farm-597031-Sep2012/|archivedate=17 September 2012}} Ulster started the season with 13 consecutive wins in all competitions, the longest unbeaten run in their history.{{cite web |title=Ulster boss Saints from start to finish |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/rugby/report?gameId=167631&league=271937 |website=espnscrum |access-date=21 April 2021}} They finished top of their group in the Heineken Cup, qualifying for the quarter-finals, where they lost to Northampton Saints. They finished top of the table in the Pro12, earning a home semi-final, in which they defeated Scarlets 27–16 in the last match before the old grandstand was demolished. The redevelopment of Ravenhill meant the final against Leinster had to be played at the RDS Arena in Dublin. Leinster won 24–18. Lock Alan O'Connor made his debut from the academy this season.[https://ulster.rugby/content/talented-quartet-sign-new-ulster-contracts "Talented Quartet Sign New Ulster Contracts"], Ulster Rugby, 20 March 2015 Wing Andrew Trimble was Player of the Year.Richard Mullugan, "Nevin Spence honoured at Ulster Rugby awards", News Letter, 11 May 2013

The 2013–14 season proved trophyless again. For the first time, Ulster won all their Heineken Cup group games, with away victories against Montpellier and Leicester Tigers being the highlight. They were knocked out at the quarterfinal stage with a 17–15 home defeat to Saracens. The Pro12 season was racked with inconsistency and Ulster finished the league season in fourth place. This set up an away semi-final with Leinster, and for the fourth time in four seasons the season was ended by their old foes with a 13–9 defeat. Centre Stuart McCloskeyGerry Thornley, [https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/stuart-mccloskey-eager-to-add-to-his-sole-ireland-cap-1.3272007 "Stuart McCloskey eager to add to his sole Ireland cap"], The Irish Times, 28 October 2018 and prop Andrew Warwick made their debuts from the academy.{{cite web|url=http://www.ulsterrugby.com/News/LatestNews/TabId/149/ArtMID/793/ArticleID/1364/Andrew-Warwick-on-his-first-appearance-for-Ulster-.aspx |title="Andrew Warwick on his first appearance for Ulster", Ulster Rugby, 30 March 2014 |access-date=2015-06-06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150420132717/http://www.ulsterrugby.com/News/LatestNews/TabId/149/ArtMID/793/ArticleID/1364/Andrew-Warwick-on-his-first-appearance-for-Ulster-.aspx |archive-date=2015-04-20 }} Andrew Trimble was Player of the Year for the second year running.Richard Mulligan, "Trimble celebrates hat-trick", News Letter, 5 May 2014 The season ended with the retirements of captain Johann Muller, centre Paddy Wallace, and flanker Stephen Ferris. Director of Rugby David Humphreys also left the province to take up a similar position at Gloucester Rugby. Following Humphreys' departure, Mark Anscombe was sacked by the province and was replaced by Ireland defence coach Les Kiss on an interim basis.{{cite web| url = http://ulsterrugby.com/News/LatestNews/TabId/149/ArtMID/793/ArticleID/1604/Ulster-Rugby-Update.aspx| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140706142641/http://www.ulsterrugby.com/News/LatestNews/TabId/149/ArtMID/793/ArticleID/1604/Ulster-Rugby-Update.aspx| archive-date = 2014-07-06| title = Ulster Rugby Update}}

File:Ulster v Glasgow Warriors October 2014.jpg

The 2014–15 season was Ulster's first under director of rugby Les Kiss{{cite web| url=http://thescore.thejournal.ie/ulster-mark-anscombe-head-coach-1546599-Jun2014/ | work=The Score | title=Mark Anscombe follows Humphreys out Ulster's exit door with immediate effect | access-date=2 July 2014 | date=30 June 2014}} and head coach Neil Doak.{{cite web|url=http://www.thescore.ie/neil-doak-ulster-les-kiss-ulster-1711377-Oct2014/ |work=The Score |title=Kiss to take Ulster DOR role after World Cup, Doak confirmed as head coach |access-date=19 October 2014 |date=7 October 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202000944/http://www.thescore.ie/neil-doak-ulster-les-kiss-ulster-1711377-Oct2014/ |archive-date=2 December 2014 }} The redeveloped Ravenhill, renamed the Kingspan Stadium, now had a capacity of 18,196.Niall Crozier, [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/money-is-the-name-of-the-game-in-ulster-stadium-name-change-30333128.html "Money is the name of the game in Ulster stadium name-change"] Belfast Telegraph, 5 June 2014 Rory Best was named captain after the retirement of Johann Muller.{{cite web| url=http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/rory-best-relishing-return-to-ulster-captaincy-1.1884980 | work=Irish times | title=Rory Best relishing return to Ulster captaincy | access-date=1 August 2014 | date=1 August 2014}} New signings included out-half Ian Humphreys, returning from London Irish,David Kelly, [https://www.independent.ie/sport/rugby/pro14/connacht-signings-trump-rival-provinces-purchases-30530251.html "Connacht signings trump rival provinces’ purchases"], Irish Independent, 23 August 2013 lock Franco van der Merwe from the Lions,{{cite web | url=http://www.rugby365.com/article/59658-franco-replaces-johann-at-ulster | title=Franco replaces Johann at Ulster | work=Rugby365 | date=24 April 2014 | access-date=24 April 2014}} outside back Louis Ludik from Agen, and flanker Sean Reidy from Counties Manukau. Ulster were knocked out of the new European Champions Cup at the group stage. They finished fourth in the Pro12 but narrowly lost in the playoff semifinal to eventual champions Glasgow Warriors. Prop Declan Fitzpatrick retired at the end of the season.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/32338677|work=BBC Sport|title=Ulster and Ireland prop Declan Fitzpatrick retires on medical advice|date=16 April 2015}} Wing Craig Gilroy was named Player of the Year.[https://www.irishrugby.ie/2015/05/02/best-gilroy-and-cave-among-the-ulster-award-winners/ "Best, Gilroy And Cave Among The Ulster Award Winners"], Irish Rugby, 1 May 2015

In 2015–16, Ulster were knocked out of the Champions Cup at the group stage despite a memorable back to back win over Toulouse. They finished fourth in the Pro12 but reached the semi-finals, losing to Leinster. Wing Jacob Stockdale made his debut from the academy.Gerry Thornley, [https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/international/jacob-stockdale-living-the-dream-playing-alongside-his-boyhood-heroes-1.3287500 "Jacob Stockdale living the dream playing alongside his boyhood heroes"], The Irish Times, 11 November 2017 Centre Stuart McCloskey was Player of the Year.[https://www.ulstertatler.com/2016/05/nick-williams-wins-the-heineken-ulster-rugby-personality-of-the-year-award/ "Nick Williams Wins The Heineken Ulster Rugby Personality of The Year Award"], Ulster Tatler, 13 May 2016

Before the 2016–17 season, Nick Williams left for Cardiff Blues{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/35163685|work=BBC Sport|title=Nick Williams: Cardiff Blues sign Ulster number eight|date=23 December 2015}} and Dan Tuohy for Bristol Bears,{{cite news|url=http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/ireland-lock-dan-tuohy-joins-bristol-rugby-from-ulster-with-immediate-effect/story-29960369-detail/story.html|work=Bristol Post|title=Bristol sign Ireland and Ulster lock Dan Tuohy|date=6 December 2016}}{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} and Ian Humphreys retired.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/35754289|work=BBC Sport|title=Ulster fly-half Ian Humphreys announces retirement at end of season|date=8 March 2016}} Ulster signed back row forward Marcell Coetzee,{{cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/rugby-union/news/15184/10163449/springboks-back-row-marcell-coetzee-agrees-ulster-move|work=Sky Sports|title=Springboks back row Marcell Coetzee agrees Ulster move|date=11 February 2016}} fullback Charles Piutau{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/32129584|work=BBC Sport|title=All-Black utility back Charles Piutau confirm move to Ulster|date=1 April 2015}} and lock Kieran Treadwell.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/35385301|work=BBC Sport|title=Ulster have signed Irish-qualified England Under-20 lock Kieran Treadwell|date=22 January 2016}} Academy flanker Nick Timoney made his debut.[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBYdR5fVhQk "URTV: Nick Timoney discusses his first cap for Ulster"], YouTube, 8 April 2017 Ulster finished the season bottom of their pool in the Heineken Cup, and fifth in the Pro12. Charles Piutau was Player of the Year.[https://www.irishrugby.ie/2017/05/07/departing-duo-receive-ulster-rugby-awards/ "Departing Duo Receive Ulster Rugby Awards"], Irish Rugby, 7 May 2017

For the 2017–18 season, the Pro12 became the Pro14 with the addition of two South African teams. Head coach Neil Doak's contract was not renewed and he was replaced by Jono Gibbes.Jonathan Bradley, [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/all-black-jono-gibbes-joins-ulster-in-coaching-role-35445460.html "All Black Jono Gibbes joins Ulster in coaching role"], Belfast Telegraph, 13 February 2017 Assistant coach Allen Clarke also left, replaced by Dwayne Peel.Jonathan Bradley, [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/doak-plans-to-end-23-years-at-kingspan-with-a-flourish-35594054.html "Doak plans to end 23 years at Kingspan with a flourish"], Belfast Telegraph, 5 April 2017 All-time appearance holder Roger Wilson retired, and scrum-half Ruan Pienaar was blocked by the IRFU from extending his contract.Tom Hamilton, [https://www.espn.com/rugby/story/_/id/17428833/irfu-rules-force-springboks-star-ruan-pienaar-leave-ulster "IRFU rules force Springboks star Ruan Pienaar to leave Ulster"], ESPN, 31 August 2016 John Cooney was signed from Connacht to replace him.[https://therunnersports.com/ulster-sign-john-cooney-from-connacht/ "Ulster Sign John Cooney From Connacht"], The Runner Sports, 16 January 2017

Before the season started, out-half Paddy Jackson and centre Stuart Olding were charged with rape and suspended from playing pending trial.[https://punditarena.com/rugby/thepateam/paddy-jackson-stuart-olding/ "IRFU Suspend Paddy Jackson & Stuart Olding After Being Charged By The PSNI"], Pundit Arena, 25 July 2017 Both would be acquitted, but have their contracts revoked.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-43766959 "Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding's contracts revoked"], BBC News, 14 April 2018 Australian out-half Christian Lealiifano was signed on loan.Beth Newman, [https://www.rugby.com.au/news/2017/08/21/23/04/brumbies-lealiifano-ulster "Lealiifano on loan to Ulster"], 22 August 2017 Prop Tom O'Toole made his debut from the academy.{{cite news|url=https://www.ulsterrugby.com/preview/ulster-team-named-for-trip-to-edinburgh/#preview|title=Ulster team named for trip to Edinburgh|date=5 April 2018|work=Ulster Rugby|access-date=2 April 2019}} After a poor run of form over the Christmas period, Les Kiss resigned as Director of Rugby,[https://www.thefrontrowunion.com/2018/06/ulster-rugby-who-did-what-2017-18/ Ulster Rugby: Who did what 2017-18], The Front Row Union, 25 June 2018 and Gibbes cut his contract short, leaving at the end of the season.[https://www.independent.ie/sport/rugby/other-rugby/la-rochelle-confirm-former-ulster-head-coach-jono-gibbes-will-become-director-of-rugby-on-four-season-deal-37008976.html "La Rochelle confirm former Ulster head coach Jono Gibbes will become Director of Rugby on four-season deal"], Irish Independent, 4 June 2018 Ulster finished third in their Champions Cup pool, and fourth in Conference B of the Pro14, failing to qualify for the playoffs and needing to win a playoff to qualify for the next season's Champions Cup.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/44139377 "European Champions Cup play-off: Ulster 35-17 Ospreys"], BBC Sport, 20 May 2018 Former Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll described the province as "a bit of a basket case", facing "Administration issues, senior players retiring, the well documented court case, now no number 10 to build the team around, no coach next year, struggling for Champions Cup rugby next season."[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/43871595 "Brian O'Driscoll: Ulster a 'basket case' at the moment"], BBC Sport, 23 April 2018 Scrum-half John Cooney was named Player of the Year.[https://ulster.rugby/content/cooney-scoops-three-awards-at-heineken-ulster-rugby-awards-dinner "Cooney scoops three awards at Heineken Ulster Rugby Awards Dinner"], Ulster Rugby, 10 May 2018

For the 2018–19 season Dan McFarland was brought in as the new head coach.[https://www.scotsman.com/sport/rugby-union/scotland-coach-dan-mcfarland-released-early-take-ulster-job-264674 "Scotland coach Dan McFarland released early to take Ulster job"], The Scotsman, 19 August 2018 Jared Payne, Tommy Bowe, Andrew Trimble and Chris Henry all retired, and Charles Piutau left for Bristol Bears.[https://www.thefrontrowunion.com/2018/05/the-changing-of-the-guard/ "The changing of the guard"], The Front Row Union, 4 May 2018 Out-half Billy Burns was signed from Gloucester,Gerry Thornley, [https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/european-cup/sibling-rivalry-driving-younger-ulster-burns-to-aim-for-next-level-1.4144584 "Sibling rivalry driving younger Ulster Burns to aim for next level"], The Irish Times, 20 January 2020 prop Marty Moore from Wasps,{{cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/rugby-union/news/12551/11139787/ireland-prop-marty-moore-to-join-ulster-from-wasps-at-end-of-season|work=Sky Sports|title=Ireland prop Marty Moore to join Ulster from Wasps at end of season|date=23 November 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171126232545/http://www.skysports.com/rugby-union/news/12551/11139787/ireland-prop-marty-moore-to-join-ulster-from-wasps-at-end-of-season|archive-date=26 November 2017|df=dmy-all}} flanker Jordi Murphy from Leinster,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/42250666|work=BBC Sport|title=Ireland and Leinster flanker Jordi Murphy agrees two-year deal with Ulster|date=6 December 2017}} and utility back Will Addison from Sale Sharks.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/43597065|work=BBC Sport|title=Will Addison: Ulster sign Irish-qualified Sale Sharks centre|date=30 March 2018}} Prop Eric O'Sullivan, wing Robert Baloucoune, centre James Hume, fullback Michael Lowry and flanker Marcus Rea all made their debuts from the academy. Ulster finished the season as quarter-finalists in the Champions Cup, and semi-finalists in the Pro14, losing to Glasgow Warriors.[https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/news/ulster-continue-to-make-strides "Ulster continue to make strides"], United Rugby, 12 June 2019 Rory Best{{cite news|url=https://www.ulsterrugby.com/2019/04/best-to-retire-after-rugby-world-cup-2019/|title=Best to retire after Rugby World Cup 2019 |date=18 April 2019|work=Ulster Rugby|access-date=18 April 2019}} and Darren Cave retired at the end of the season.{{cite news|url=https://www.ulsterrugby.com/2019/04/cave-to-retire-at-end-of-season/|title=Cave to retire at end of season|date=3 April 2019|work=Ulster Rugby|access-date=3 April 2019|archive-date=4 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190404124743/https://www.ulsterrugby.com/2019/04/cave-to-retire-at-end-of-season/|url-status=dead}} Centre Stuart McCloskey was Player of the Year for the second time.Darren Fullerton, [https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/sport/rugby/2019-ulster-rugby-awards-retiring-16253538 "2019 Ulster Rugby Awards: Retiring captain Rory Best is named Heineken Personality of the Year"], Belfast Live, 9 May 2019

Lock Iain Henderson was named captain for the 2019–20 season.[https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/iain-henderson-appointed-ulster-captain-as-lock-predicts-exciting-season-ahead-for-the-province-38345611.html "Iain Henderson appointed Ulster captain as lock predicts 'exciting' season ahead for the province"], Belfast Telegraph, 25 July 2019 Ulster were again quarter-finalists in the Champions Cup, going out to Toulouse,[https://www.epcrugby.com/report/kolbe-brace-helps-toulouse-secure-semi-final-spot#report "Kolbe brace helps Toulouse secure semi-final spot"], EPCR, 20 September 2020 and reached the final of the Pro14, losing to Leinster.[https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/news/mcfarland-disappointed-but-proud-after-ulsters-final-defeat "McFarland 'disappointed but proud' after Ulster's Final defeat"], United Rugby, 13 September 2020 Centre Stewart Moore and wing Ethan McIlroy{{cite news|url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/who-are-the-four-players-set-for-ulster-debuts-at-leinster-all-you-need-to-know-about-jack-regan-azur-allison-stewart-moore-and-ethan-mcilroy-38799550.html|title=Who are the four players set for Ulster debuts at Leinster? All you need to know about Jack Regan, Azur Allison, Stewart Moore and Ethan McIlroy|date=19 December 2019|work=Belfast Telegraph|access-date=5 January 2020}} made their debuts from the academy, and scrum-half John Cooney was Player of the Year for the second time.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/54348927 "John Cooney is named Ulster's Player of the Year as Marcel Coetzee wins hat-trick of awards"], BBC Sport, 20 September 2020

The 2020–21 season was shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, and games were played behind closed doors. Ulster finished second in Conference A of the Pro14, but failed to make the knockout stages of the Champions Cup and were entered into the Challenge Cup. They progressed to the semi-finals, where they were beaten by Leicester Tigers. The season's final competition was the Pro14 Rainbow Cup, pitting the Pro14's European teams against the four South African teams who were leaving Super Rugby. Ulster's form in this competition was poor, and they finished tenth in the European pool. Marcell Coetzee cut short his contract and left for the Bulls before the end of the season.Neil Treacy, [https://www.otbsports.com/sport/marcell-coetzee-to-leave-ulster-early-ahead-of-move-to-the-bulls-1179001 "Marcell Coetzee to leave Ulster early ahead of move to the Bulls], OTBSports, 13 April 2021 Academy players Cormac Izuchukwu, Nathan Doak, David McCann, Callum Reid and Aaron Sexton all made their senior debuts this season.[https://www.thefrontrowunion.com/2021/08/ulster-2020-21-who-did-what/ Ulster 2020-21 - Who Did What?], The Front Row Union, 12 August 2021 Lock Alan O'Connor was Player of the Year.[https://www.irishrugby.ie/2021/06/07/henderson-leads-the-winners-at-ulster-rugby-awards/ "Henderson Leads The Winners At Ulster Rugby Awards"], IrishRugby.ie, 7 June 2021

In 2021–22 the Pro14 became the United Rugby Championship, with the addition of four new South African teams. Ulster made the semi-finals, where they narrowly lost to the Stormers in Cape Town. In the Champions Cup, they made the knockout stage, but went out in a two-legged round of sixteen playoff against Toulouse by an aggregate score of 50–49. Centre James Hume was Player of the Year.[https://ulster.rugby/content/2021-22-heineken-ulster-rugby-award-winners-revealed "2021-22 Heineken Ulster Rugby Award winners revealed"], Ulster Rugby, 23 June 2022

New signings for the 2022-23 season included prop Jeffery Toomaga-Allen.[https://ulster.rugby/content/all-black-toomaga-allen-is-coming-to-ulster "All-Black Toomaga-Allen is coming to Ulster"], Ulster Rugby, 30 May 2022 Lock Harry Sheridan[https://www.irishnews.com/sport/rugbyunion/2023/01/21/news/sheridan_a_surprise_inclusion_in_ulster_team_to_face_sale_in_heineken_cup-3010941/ "Sheridan a surprise inclusion in Ulster team to face Sale in Heineken Cup"], The Irish News, 21 January 2023 and centre Jude Postlethwaite[https://ulster.rugby/content/match-report-cardiff-20-42-ulster "Match Report | Cardiff 20-42 Ulster"], Ulster Rugby, 4 March 2023 made their senior debuts. Despite a poor run of results in mid-season,Jonathan Bradley, [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/ulsters-poor-run-of-form-could-have-serious-ramifications-for-players-in-hunt-for-ireland-six-nations-selection/42273456.html "Ulster’s poor run of form could have serious ramifications for players in hunt for Ireland Six Nations selection"], Belfast Telegraph, 9 January 2023 Ulster made the knockout stage of the Champions Cup, going out in the round of 16 to Leinster.[https://epcrugby.com/overview/?FixGuid=22LU9097#report "Leinster overpower Ulster"], EPCRugby, 1 April 2023 They became the first European team in the URC to win all four league games against South African opposition, and secured a home quarter-final with a home win over the Bulls in March,[https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/ulster-secure-home-urc-quarter-final-as-second-half-comeback-leads-to-bonus-point-win-over-bulls/433398427.html "Ulster secure home URC quarter-final as second half comeback leads to bonus point win over Bulls"], 25 March 2023 which they lost to Connacht.[https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/match-report/jack-carty-boots-connacht-into-semi-finals "Jack Carty boots Connacht into semi-finals after win at Ulster"], United Rugby, 5 May 2023 Hooker Tom Stewart was named Player of the Year after scoring 16 tries in the URC, a league record, and 17 tries in all competitions, an Ulster record.Jonathan Bradley, [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/record-breaking-feats-mean-tom-stewart-has-the-last-laugh-over-coach-dan-soper/940876637.html "Record-breaking feats mean Tom Stewart has the last laugh over coach Dan Soper"], Belfast Telegraph, 17 April 2023

New signings for the 2023–24 season included prop Steven Kitshoff and flanker Dave Ewers. After a difficult first half of the season, McFarland left his position, to be replaced by assistant coach Dan Soper until after the Six Nations Under 20s Championship, after which Ireland under-20 coach Richie Murphy would take over until the end of the season.[https://ulster.rugby/content/dan-mcfarland-departs-ulster-rugby "Dan McFarland departs Ulster Rugby"], Ulster Rugby, 21 February 2024 Chief Executive Jonny Petrie left not long after, replaced on an interim basis by Hugh McCaughey.[https://ulster.rugby/content/ulster-rugby-announce-hugh-mccaughey-as-interim-ceo "Ulster Rugby announce Hugh McCaughey as Interim CEO"], Ulster Rugby, 27 March 2024 Murphy signed a two-year contract in May.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/articles/c90z9qjngdyo "Ulster name Murphy permanent boss on two-year deal"], BBC Sport, 13 May 2023 Ulster finished sixth in the URC, going out in the quarter-finals to Leinster, and went out of the Champions Cup at the pool stage, dropping into the Challenge Cup where they made the quarter-finals. Flanker David McCann was Player of the Season.[https://ulster.rugby/content/2023-24-heineken-ulster-rugby-awards-winners "2023-24 Heineken Ulster Rugby Awards | Winners"], Ulster Rugby, 12 June 2024 Prop Scott Wilson made his debut from the academy.

Before the 2024–25 season, Richie Murphy's first full season in charge, there were significant changes. Out-half Billy Burns left for Munster;Shane Donovan, [https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41356483.html "Confirmed: Ulster out-half Billy Burns seals Munster move"], Irish Examiner, 19 March 2023 prop Steven Kitshoff returned to the Stormers,[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/68714423 "Steven Kitshoff: Two-time World Cup winner to leave Ulster in the summer"], BBC Sport, 5 April 2024 where he was joined by flanker Dave Ewers;{{Cite news|url=https://thestormers.com/experienced-ewers-joins-dhl-stormers/ |publisher=Stormers|title=EXPERIENCED EWERS JOINS DHL STORMERS|date=8 August 2024|access-date=8 August 2024}} utility back Will Addison signed for Sale Sharks;Neil Treacey, [https://www.rte.ie/sport/united-rugby-championship/2024/0528/1451662-ulsters-addison-confirms-sale-sharks-return/ "Ulster's Will Addison confirms Sale Sharks return"], RTÉ, 28 May 2024 and centre Luke Marshall retired.Keith Bailie, [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-centre-confirms-retirement-after-15-seasons-at-ravenhill/a1774794791.html "Ulster centre confirms retirement after 15 seasons at Ravenhill"], Belfast Telegraph, 8 April 2024 New signings included wing Werner Kok from the Sharks{{cite news|url=https://www.rugbypass.com/news/werner-kok-to-become-the-first-ulster-signing-for-2024-25-sharks-urc/ |publisher=Rugby Pass|title=Werner Kok to become the first Ulster signing for 2024/25|date=13 March 2024|access-date=13 March 2024}} and Irish-qualified out-half Aidan Morgan from the Hurricanes.[https://ulster.rugby/content/ulster-rugby-signs-irish-qualified-morgan "Ulster Rugby signs Irish-Qualified Morgan"], Ulster Rugby, 27 May 2024 Ireland Sevens player of the year Zac Ward, son of former Ulster captain Andy Ward, joined Ulster on a trial basis.[https://ulster.rugby/content/zac-ward-to-join-senior-mens-team-on-trial-basis?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR0UI6SKC3BaaKvgAwNfUw9aSWS7oW5lnquAzY9KHQXk8A24TDQNsqUnIFo_aem_5wgraBF4JImTSiYE8nchRQ&ai "Zac Ward to join Senior Men’s team on trial basis"], Ulster Rugby, 19 August 2024 Jimmy Duffy replaced Roddy Grant as forwards coach,[https://ulster.rugby/content/duffy-to-join-ulster-rugby-coaching-set-up "Duffy to join Ulster Rugby coaching set-up"], Ulster Rugby, 28 May 2024 Sam Dodge joined as head of athletic performance,[https://ulster.rugby/content/pre-season-focus-sam-dodge "Pre-Season Focus | Sam Dodge"], Ulster Rugby, 29 July 2024 and skills coach Craig Newby left for Ealing Trailfinders.Adam McKendry, [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/ulster-backroom-staff-set-for-more-change-as-coach-to-depart-for-championship/a680617038.html "Ulster backroom staff set for more change as coach to depart for Championship"], Belfast Telegraph, 23 May 2024 Ulster qualified for the round of 16 in the Champions Cup, going out to Bordeaux, and finished 14th in the URC, failing to qualify for the playoffs or for next season's Champions Cup, being entered into the EPCR Challenge Cup.

Gold background denotes champions
Silver background denotes runner-up

* After dropping into the competition from the Champions Cup/Heineken Cup

{{2024-25 United Rugby Championship table}}

Pool B

{{2023–24 European Rugby Champions Cup Pool B table}}

• European Rugby Champions Cup
• Winners: 1 (1998–99)
• Runners Up: 1 (2011–12)
• PRO14
• Winners: 1 (2005–06)
• Runners Up: 3 (2003-04, 2012-13, 2019-20)
• United Rugby Championship Irish Shield
• Runners Up: 1 (2021-22)
• Celtic Cup
• Winners: 1 (2003–04)
• Irish Inter-Provincial Championships
• Winners: 26 (8 shared) (1946–47, 1950–51, 1951–52, 1953–54, 1955–56 (shared), 1956–57 (shared), 1966–67 (shared), 1967–68, 1969–70, 1970–71, 1972–73, 1974–75, 1975–76 (shared), 1976–77, 1977–78 (shared), 1982–83 (shared), 1984–85, 1985–86, 1986–87, 1987–88 (shared), 1988–89, 1989–90, 1990–91, 1991–92, 1992–93, 1993–94 (shared)
• Glasgow City Sevens
• Winners: 1 (2013–14){{Cite web|url=https://scottishsevens.sport.blog/glasgow-city-sevens/|title=Cartha / Glasgow City Sevens|date=7 June 2019}}

Image:Flag of Ulster.svg

The current crest was introduced in 2003. The new, stylised crest is made specific to Ulster Rugby as it incorporates the red hand from the provincial flag of Ulster with two rugby balls.{{Cite web|url=https://www.ulsterrugby.com/news/|title=News|website=Ulster Rugby}} The Ulster Rugby crest is on all official club merchandise including replica jerseys.

File:Kingspan_Stadium,_Belfast.jpg]]

The Ravenhill Stadium, known for sponsorship reasons as the Kingspan Stadium since 2014, opened in 1923.{{cite web |title=KINGSPAN STADIUM |url=https://www.ulsterrugby.com/seasontickets/events/stadium.html |website=Ulster Rugby |access-date=21 April 2021 |archive-date=13 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200113135714/https://www.ulsterrugby.com/seasontickets/events/stadium.html |url-status=dead }} It has hosted two Rugby World Cup matches, several Ireland national team matches, the 2015 Pro12 Grand Final and many 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup matches, including the final.

The Premium Stand opened in 2009. In 2011, the Northern Ireland Executive announced that it had granted £138m for various stadium redevelopment projects throughout Northern Ireland. Ulster Rugby received £14.5m, which was used to redevelop Ravenhill and expand its capacity from 12,000 to 18,000.[http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/local/stadiums-fit-for-our-heroes-on-way-at-last-15110370.html Stadiums fit for our heroes on way at last] - Belfast Telegraph, 11/03/11 The rest of the redevelopment took place from 2012 to 2014. In 2012, Ulster Rugby confirmed that three new stands would be built at Ravenhill, with work commencing in late 2012. Two new stands at the Memorial and Aquinas ends of the stadium were completed while the main stand was demolished and rebuilt. The major refurbishment was completed in April 2014.[https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-16693209 Plans for Ravenhill refurbishment are unveiled] - BBC News, 24 January 2012 After the rest of the redevelopment was completed, the stadium was renamed the Kingspan Stadium.

Up to date as of the 2023–24 season.

{{For|player movements before or during the 2025–26 season|List of 2025–26 United Rugby Championship transfers#Ulster}}

Hookers

• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} John Andrew
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Rob Herring
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} James McCormick
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Tom Stewart

Locks

• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Matthew Dalton
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Iain Henderson (c)
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Joe Hopes
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Charlie Irvine
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Cormac Izuchukwu
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Harry Sheridan

||

Back row

• {{flagicon|RSA}} Juarno Augustus
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} David McCann
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Lorcan McLoughlin
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} James McNabney
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Marcus Rea
• {{flagicon|ENG}} Sean Reffell*
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Nick Timoney

Scrum-halves

• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Nathan Doak
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Conor McKee
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} David Shanahan

Fly-halves

• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Jake Flannery
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} James Humphreys
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Jack Murphy

||

Centres

• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Ben Carson
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} James Hume
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Stuart McCloskey
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Stewart Moore
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Jude Postlethwaite

Wings

• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Robert Baloucoune
• {{flagicon|RSA}} Werner Kok
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Ben Moxham
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Jacob Stockdale
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Zac Ward

Fullbacks

• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Michael Lowry
• {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Ethan McIlroy

|-

| colspan="100%" style="height: 10px;" |

|-

| colspan="100%" style="text-align:center;" | (c) denotes the team captain, Bold denotes internationally capped players.
^* denotes players qualified to play for Ireland on residency or dual nationality.
^ST denotes a short-term signing.
Players and their allocated positions from the Ulster Rugby website.{{cite web | url=https://ulster.rugby/content/ulster-men-for-2024-25-season-are-named | title=Ulster men for 2024/25 season are named | work=Ulster Rugby | access-date=13 June 2024}}{{Notelist|group=Squad}}

|}

:Scores and results list Ulster's points tally first.

Updated as of 16 May 2025.

Correct as of 9 May 2025.

:{{As of|2025|May|16}}Original research sourced from https://www.ulsterrugby.com/fixtures-results/{{Cite web|url=https://www.ulsterrugby.com/fixtures-results/statistics/|title=Statistics}}{{cite web |title=Heineken Cup: Ulster Factfile |url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2007/11/05/heineken-cup-ulster-factfile/ |website=Irish Rugby |date=5 November 2007 |access-date=2 January 2023}}

|2001/02 – 2003/04

|63

|41

|2

|20

|{{#expr:41/63*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:20/63*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|2003-04 Celtic Cup

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} {{sortname|Mark|McCall|}}{{cite web |title=McCall Resigns As Ulster Coach |url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2007/11/13/mccall-resigns-as-ulster-coach/ |website=Irish Rugby |access-date=3 February 2022}}

|2004/05 – 2007/08 (mid-season)

|91

|46

|3

|42

|{{#expr:46/91*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:42/91*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"| 2005-06 Celtic League

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|WAL}} {{sortname|Steve|Williams|Steve Williams (rugby union, born 1970)}}{{cite web |title=Williams' imminent exit leaves Ulster out in cold |url=https://www.independent.ie/sport/rugby/williams-imminent-exit-leaves-ulster-out-in-cold-26338294.html |website=Irish Independent |date=12 December 2007 |access-date=3 February 2022}}

|2007/08 (mid-season)

|8

|2

|0

|6

|{{#expr:2/8*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:6/8*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|Interim

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|AUS}} {{sortname|Matt|Williams|Matt Williams (rugby union coach)}}{{cite web |title=Williams Steps Down As Ulster Coach |url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2009/05/21/williams-steps-down-as-ulster-coach/ |website=Irish Rugby |access-date=3 February 2022}}

|2007/08 (mid-season) – 2008/09

|37

|15

|1

|21

|{{#expr:15/37*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:21/37*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Brian McLaughlin{{cite web |title=Ulster's Brian McLaughlin shows success is sometimes not enough |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2012/may/17/ulster-brian-mclaughlin-heineken-cup |website=The Guardian |date=17 May 2012 |access-date=3 February 2022}}

|2009/10 – 2011/12

|93

|54

|2

|37

|{{#expr:54/93*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:37/93*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|NZL}} {{sortname|Mark|Anscombe|}}{{cite news |title=Maurice Field: Mark Anscombe just couldn't take Ulster Rugby to the next level |url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/maurice-field-mark-anscombe-just-couldnt-take-ulster-rugby-to-the-next-level-30403087.html |newspaper=Belfasttelegraph |access-date=3 February 2022}}

|2012/13 – 2013/14

|69

|47

|5

|17

|{{#expr:47/69*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:17/69*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|AUS}} {{sortname|Les|Kiss|}}{{cite web |title=Ulster Confirm Les Kiss Will Return As Director Of Rugby After 2015 World Cup |url=https://www.balls.ie/rugby/ulster-confirm-les-kiss-will-return-director-rugby-2015-world-cup-139329 |website=Balls |date=7 October 2014 |access-date=3 February 2022}}

|2014/15

|5

|3

|1

|1

|{{#expr:3/5*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:1/5*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|Interim

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} {{sortname|Neil|Doak|}}{{cite web |title=Gibbes to coach Ulster, Azema extends Clermont contract |url=https://www.rugbypass.com/news/gibbes-to-coach-ulster-azema-extends-clermont-contract/ |website=Rugby Pass |date=13 February 2017 |access-date=3 February 2022}}

|2014/15 (mid-season) – 2016/17

|85

|48

|2

|35

|{{#expr:48/85*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:35/85*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|NZL|}} {{sortname|Jono|Gibbes|}}{{cite news |title=Jono Gibbes: This is why I'm leaving Ulster despite mixed emotions |url=https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/rugby/ulster-rugby/jono-gibbes-this-is-why-im-leaving-ulster-despite-mixed-emotions-36668573.html |newspaper=Belfasttelegraph |access-date=4 February 2022}}

|2017/18

|30

|17

|2

|11

|{{#expr:17/30*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:11/30*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|ENG|}} {{sortname|Dan|McFarland|}}

|2018/19 – 2023/24 (mid-season)

|150

|92

|3

|55

|{{#expr:92/150*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:55/150*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|NZL|}} {{sortname|Dan|Soper|}}{{cite web |title=Dan Soper: Ulster 'in this together' ahead of fresh start |url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/2024/0227/1434714-soper-ulster-in-this-together-ahead-of-fresh-start/ |website=RTE |date=27 February 2024 |access-date=13 May 2024}}

|2023/24 (mid-season)

|1

|1

|0

|0

|{{#expr:1/1*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:0/1*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"| Interim

|-

|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} {{sortname|Richie|Murphy|}}

|2023/24 (mid-season) –

|32

|13

|0

|19

|{{#expr:13/32*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:19/32*100 round 1}}%

|style="text-align: left;"|

|-

|-

|style="text-align: center;"|Total

|1995 –

|726

|404

|23

|299

|{{#expr:404/726*100 round 1}}%

|{{#expr:299/726*100 round 1}}%

|

|-

| colspan="9" style="text-align: left;font-size:90%" |  ^*Games played are inclusive of matches played against touring international sides and friendlies against club opposition.

|-

| colspan="9" style="text-align: left;font-size:90%" | †Bloomfield was Ulster coach from 1993 to 1995. However, only matches from the professional era (1995/96 season) are included in this table.

|-

|}

Bold indicates active player

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(correct as of 16 May 2024){{cite web |title=Ulster Player Archive |url=https://b7n4k9m6.ssl.hwcdn.net/teams/ulster/squad.php?includeref=dynamic&filter=yes&searchteam=&searchyear=&searchdecade=&searchinit=&order=&layout= |website=Pro12 |access-date=10 November 2023}}{{cite web |title=Milestones |url=https://www.epcrugby.com/champions-cup/history/milestones/ |website=EPC rugby |access-date=21 January 2023}}

Including Heineken Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup

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(correct as of 6 April 2024)[https://www.itsrugby.co.uk/team-stats-players-ulster.html Player Statistics at ItsRugby.co.uk]

Including Celtic League, Celtic Cup, Pro12, Pro14 and Pro14 Rainbow Cup

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(correct as of 16 May 2025){{cite web |title=Ulster Player Archive |url=https://b7n4k9m6.ssl.hwcdn.net/teams/ulster/squad.php?includeref=dynamic&filter=yes&searchteam=&searchyear=&searchdecade=&searchinit=&order=&layout= |website=Pro12 |access-date=10 November 2023}}

Team of the Year

Player of the Year

Individual Awards

Team Awards

• 2012–13 Pro12 Fair Play Award
• 2013–14 Pro12 Fair Play Award (joint)
• 2015–16 Pro12 Fair Play Award

The following Ulster players, in addition to representing Ireland, have also represented the British & Irish Lions.{{cite book |title=The Ireland Rugby Miscellany |year=2007 |first=Ciaran |last=Cronin}}

{{Columns-list|colwidth=24em|

• Tommy Smyth: 1910
• Alexander Foster: 1910
• Robert Alexander: 1938
• George Cromey: 1938
• Harry McKibbin: 1938
• Paddy Mayne: 1938
• Jack Kyle: 1950
• Jimmy Nelson: 1950
• Robin Thompson: 1955
• Cecil Pedlow: 1955
• David Hewitt: 1959
• Raymond Hunter: 1962
• Willie John McBride: 1962, 1966, 1968, 1971, 1974
• Syd Millar: 1962, 1968
• Mike Gibson: 1966, 1968, 1971, 1974, 1977
• Roger Young: 1966, 1968
• Stewart McKinney: 1974
• Richard Milliken: 1974
• Colin Patterson: 1980
• David Irwin: 1983
• Trevor Ringland: 1983, 1986
• Nigel Carr: 1986
• Steve Smith: 1989
• Eric Miller: 1997
• Jeremy Davidson: 1997, 2001
• Tyrone Howe: 2001
• Stephen Ferris: 2009
• Tommy Bowe: 2009, 2013
• Rory Best: 2013, 2017
• Tom Court: 2013
• Iain Henderson: 2017, 2021
• Jared Payne: 2017

}}

• Bold indicates player was tour captain for the year in question

Note: Phillip Matthews played for the Lions in their victory against France in Paris. The game formed part of the celebrations of the bi-centennial of the French Revolution, but did not count as a "formal" Lions international.

The IRFU Ulster Branch oversees a pyramid of club rugby competitions in Ulster.

Ulster currently has thirteen senior rugby clubs, which compete in the All-Ireland League, the Ulster Rugby Premiership, the Ulster Senior Cup and the Ulster Senior Shield. They are:

• Ballynahinch (AIL Div 1A)
• City of Armagh (AIL Div 1A)
• Queen's University (AIL Div 1B)
• Ballymena (AIL Div 2A)
• Banbridge (AIL Div 2A)
• Instonians (AIL Div 2A)
• Clogher Valley (AIL Div 2B)
• Dungannon (AIL Div 2B)
• Malone (AIL Div 2B)
• Rainey (AIL Div 2B)
• Ballyclare (AIL Div 2C
• Belfast Harlequins (AIL Div 2C)
• Omagh Academicals (AIL Div 2C)

Ballynahinch are currently the highest ranked in the All-Ireland League, finishing fifth in Division 1A in 2023–24.[https://www.finalwhistle.ie/rugby/ail-division-1a/ All Ireland League Division 1A 2023/24], FinalWhistle.ie, retrieved 2 July 2024 They are holders of the 2023-24 Ulster Rugby Premiership, having won it three seasons in a row.[https://www.newsletter.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/ballynahinch-clinch-trio-of-ulster-senior-league-titles-after-victory-over-armagh-4339091 "Ballynahinch clinch trio of Ulster Senior League titles after victory over Armagh"], News Letter, 17 September 2023 Instonians are the holders of the 2023-24 Ulster Senior Cup.Michael Sadlier, [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sunday-life/sport/instonians-end-25-year-wait-for-senior-cup-glory-with-extra-time-win-over-queens-in-final/a991329419.html "Instonians end 25-year wait for Senior Cup glory with extra-time win over Queen’s in Final"], Belfast Telegraph, 4 May 2024

Ballyclare were promoted to senior level for the first time in 2023 after finishing top of the 2022-23 Ulster Rugby Championship and winning playoffs against Connacht junior champions Creggs and Leinster League champions Monkstown.[https://www.irishrugby.ie/2024/04/13/mcbride-strikes-late-to-secure-energiaail-promotion-for-ballyclare/ "McBride Strikes Late To Secure Historic #EnergiaAIL Promotion For Ballyclare"], Irish Rugby, 13 April 2024[https://ulster.rugby/content/to-do-it-for-the-club-and-community-would-mean-everything-ballyclare-captain-mcbride "‘To Do It For The Club And Community Would Mean Everything’ – Ballyclare Captain McBride"], Ulster Rugby, 12 April 2024

The second tier includes the three divisions of the Ulster Rugby Championship, and the 2nd XV League. Clubs in the Championship Division 1, and some of the clubs in the Second XV league, also compete in the Ulster Junior Cup. Clubs in the Championship Division 2, and some of the clubs in the Second XV league, compete in the Ulster Junior Shield. Clubs in the Championship Division 3 also compete in the Gordon West Cup and Gordon West Plate. Clubs in all the tier 2 divisions also compete in the McCrea Cup and the Ulster Towns Cup.

The third tier contains the two divisions of the Ulster Provincial Premiership, the Crawford Cup and the Crawford Plate.

The fourth tier consists of three divisions of the Provincial Regional - North, East 1 and East 2. These clubs also compete in the Forster Cup and the Forster Plate.

The fifth tier consists of five divisions: Regional North, Regional South divisions 1 and 2, and Regional East divisions 1 and 2. Clubs at this level also compete in the McCambley Cup and the Butler Shield.[https://ulster.rugby/content/want-to-get-up-to-speed-ahead-of-the-2023-24-mens-domestic-season "Want to get up to speed ahead of the 2023/24 Men’s domestic season?"], Ulster Rugby, 25 August 2023

• United Rugby Championship
• European Rugby Champions Cup
• History of rugby union matches between Leinster and Ulster
• History of rugby union matches between Munster and Ulster
• History of rugby union matches between Connacht and Ulster

{{Reflist|group=note}}

{{Reflist}}

{{commons category}}

• {{Official website|https://ulster.rugby/}}
• [http://www.uafc.co.uk The UAFC – Ulster Rugby Supporters site]
• [http://www.intouchrugby.com InTouch Rugby Ulster Rugby Online News]
• [http://www.thefru.co.uk The FRU Ulster Supporters Fanzine]

• [http://www.ercrugby.com/eng/13_11443.php ercrugby Profile] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090912155220/http://www.ercrugby.com/eng/13_11443.php |date=12 September 2009 }}

{{Ulster Rugby}}

{{Ulster Rugby squad}}

{{Rugby union in Ireland}}

{{United Rugby Championship}}

{{European Rugby Champions Cup}}

{{Ulster Rugby Links}}

{{Authority control}}

Category:Rugby clubs established in 1879

Category:Rugby union in Ulster

Category:Rugby union governing bodies in Ireland

Rugby

Category:Heineken Cup champions

Category:United Rugby Championship teams

Category:1879 establishments in Ireland