Rugby
Rugby is the traditional sport in CBC and provides an exciting outlet for many of our students.
Our success in schools Rugby, in particular the Junior Cup and Senior Cup, where CBC has been successful on 32 occasions, is testament to our commitment to providing the highest standards and support.
The excellent sporting facilities enjoyed by our students further enhance the school experience.
Christians has a proud tradition on the rugby field, spanning all ages and abilities. Christians has a long history of competing in and winning Munster Senior and Junior Cups, jointly topping the Senior roll of honour with success on 32 occasions
A Legacy of Excellence
Christian Brothers College Cork stands as one of Ireland's most prestigious rugby schools, boasting an exceptional record that spans over a century. The College has carved out a formidable reputation as a rugby powerhouse, particularly in Munster schools rugby.
Vision
CBC’s Rugby vision is rooted in its commitment to nurturing a love of sport, physical activity and healthy lifestyle among pupils. Player development spans from U14 through to Senior level with enjoyment of the game central to its approach. Players can engage with Rugby at a range of different levels with an emphasis on enjoyment of the game central to our activites.
Historic Success and Records
CBC has achieved remarkable success in the Munster Schools' Senior Cup, winning thirty-two titles since our first victory in 1909 when we defeated Rockwell College. As of 2025, the College shares the record for most titles, our most recent triumph coming in 2025 with a win over Presentation College. https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41597470.html
The College has also enjoyed significant success in the Munster Schools’ Junior Cup with nineteen titles
National Recognition
CBC has been recognized as "the most successful program in the history of the Munster Schools Senior Cup," cementing its status among Ireland's elite rugby schools. This distinction reflects not just our trophy count but the consistency and quality of our rugby program over generations.
Notable Alumni
CBC Cork has produced numerous distinguished rugby alumni who have represented both Munster and Ireland at the highest levels. Among the most notable are Billy Holland, John Ryan, Tomás O'Leary, and Donnacha O'Callaghan, all of whom have represented both province and country with distinction.
Past pupil Donal Lenihan stands as one of the school's most celebrated rugby figures, having captained both Munster and Ireland during his playing career before transitioning into management roles, including serving as Irish team manager and his work as team manager for the British and Irish Lions tours.
Stephen Archer, another distinguished CBC alumnus, holds the record as Munster Rugby's most-capped player, demonstrating the longevity and excellence that characterizes CBC's rugby development. The school's development system has consistently nurtured talent that has gone on to achieve success at provincial and international rugby, with former students making their mark in professional rugby across Ireland and beyond.
Recent Developments
In a significant move to strengthen their rugby program further, CBC appointed Jonny Holland as the College's Elite Performance Director in 2024. This appointment demonstrates the school's continued commitment to maintaining the highest standards in rugby development and performance.
Reputation and Development
CBC's rugby program is renowned for its structured approach to player development, consistently producing talented players who progress to provincial and national levels. Our success stems from a combination of dedicated coaching staff, strong school support, and a rugby culture that emphasizes both skill development and character building.
CBCs rugby tradition represents more than just winning trophies; it embodies our commitment to excellence, discipline, and teamwork. The program continues to attract talented young players from across Munster, maintaining our position as a cornerstone of Irish schools rugby.
The College's sustained success over more than a century demonstrates the strength of our rugby infrastructure and our ability to adapt while maintaining the high standards that have defined CBC rugby for generations.