Paddy Wallace has enjoyed some wonderful moments at Ravenhill this season...and he's hoping that younger brother Neil can add another one to the family collection today
Today will mark a big occasion in the Wallace household. Ulster's newest star Paddy Wallace never made it to an Ulster Schools Cup final, and neither did his older brother Rory - so when Scrum half Neil Wallace takes the field for Campbell College against Methodist College (Methody) for the final of the Ulster Senior Schools Cup final on the St Patrick's Day Holiday it will be a proud moment for his more famous sibling.
"I played in three Schools Cup quarter finals but never reached Ravenhill," the Ulster and Ireland 'A' player recalled last week during a break in the Irish squad session in Belfast. " The first, in 1996 against BRA was alongside Rory and I also lost at that stage to Bangor and Portadown in the following two years. It will be a big thrill to finally have someone from the family in the final."
In his short but sparkling career Paddy has represented Ireland Schools and Under 21's before getting a contract with Ulster. This debut season has seen some great achievements for the 22 year old - victory over Stade Français, a first Ireland A cap against the All Blacks, and the Ireland 'A' triple crown - all achieved at Ravenhill. However his greatest rugby regret was not to make it to the home of Ulster rugby for a Schools Cup final. "That was a big disappointment, but it is good for the school and for coach John McKinney (brother of the former Ireland flanker Stewart) that we are back in the final."
"I have been involved with the side this season, mainly helping the backs, and there is a good blend between the pack and the backs. We were unlucky to lose to Methody earlier in the season. They are very strong side and had a good semi final win. It should be a great game, both schools have such a fine rugby history. Indeed Methody, the holders, have won the competition, which is sponsored by Renault and dates back to 1876, on 29 occassions while Campbell have 21 successes, the last in 1999."
Looking back on his own season Paddy cannot believe how well things have gone. "Realistically I had hoped to bench as cover for David Humphreys this year but the opportunity to get a starting place has been fantastic. Although long term I would like to be playing at 10 I am happy at full back if that is where the Ulster and Ireland management want me."
Paddy will be telling the Campbell boys to go out and enjoy the experience of the day, because, despite what might follow in your rugby career, there is nothing quite like appearing in an Ulster Schools cup final.