Mike Reid, Chief Executive of the Ulster Branch said: “We are delighted to welcome the Northern Bank as the new sponsors of this great rugby tradition, we look forward to working with them and believe that this partnership will provide many mutual benefits. To attract a partnership with such a prestigious brand, demonstrates just how important the Schools’ Cup is to Ulster’s sporting heritage." 

“The Schools’ Cup is the second oldest rugby competition in the world with the first final played in 1876 and with its long and proud history, it really catches the imagination of the rugby public, young and old. Last week a crowd of over 9000 people watched a thrilling final contested by Royal Belfast Academical Institution and Methodist College Belfast. Both teams have been major forces throughout the history of the competition but the number of Schools participating is increasing with 32 involved in this season’s tournament. Next year should be even better and we’re already working with the Northern Bank on a number of initiatives, which should make it even more exciting. 

Colin Dundas, Regional General Manager with Northern Bank said: "We are delighted and proud to be the sponsors of the Schools’ Cup which has played such a central part in Ulster’s sporting history. This is our biggest sports sponsorship for many years and we are really excited about the potential for us. Northern Bank also has a very proud tradition and heritage and we see enormous mutual benefits in working with what we believe to be the most vibrant and exciting schools rugby tournament in the world.”