It is named in honour of the Queen’s, Ireland, and Lions great Jack Kyle (1926-2014), who studied Medicine at Queen’s, graduating in 1951. Kyle was capped 46 times by Ireland, winning the Five Nations Grand Slam in 1948.

Queens University Rugby Club was founded in 1869.  It is the most successful and oldest Rugby club in Northern Ireland, winning the Ulster Senior Cup on 23 occasions.  The club currently plays in All Ireland League Division 1B and plays host to Men’s U20 XV, 2nd XV, 3rd XV,4thXV and Ladies 1st XV and 2nd XV.

As operating costs of running the rugby club rise, with increased participation, and the need for sustainable funding grows, a structured approach is required to manage and expand revenue streams.  The support of friends and alumni allows rugby in Queens University to respect the firm foundations of the rugby clubs history whilst building for a very positive future.  Your donation to the Jack Kyle Rugby Foundation helps our students achieve the exceptional.

Key Investment Areas of the Jack Kyle Foundation

1. QUBRFC Rugby Academy Scholarships

Supporting talented student-athletes to achieve both academic and sporting excellence, attracting and retaining elite rugby talent at Queen’s.

2. Performance Coaching Budget

Funding expert coaching staff who deliver technical, tactical, and positional development across the Men’s and Women’s rugby programmes.

3. Performance Video Analysis

Providing advanced match and training analysis to drive continual improvement, tactical understanding, and player development.

4. Athletic Development Delivery

Implementing a comprehensive Strength & Conditioning programme that enhances physical preparation, resilience, and long-term player welfare.

5. Academic Mentoring and Planning

Offering tailored academic support to help student-athletes balance the demands of study and high-performance rugby.

6. Sustaining Full-Time Rugby Staff

Ensuring the continued leadership and delivery of rugby operations through the Director of Rugby and Rugby Development Officer roles.