A challenging season.

Ulster captain Rory Best has written an open letter this afternoon after a hugely difficult season for the northern province both on and off the pitch.

A lot has happened at Ulster this season with the much publicised Belfast Rape Trial involving former players Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding disrupting much of their campaign.

That left Ulster without a senior outhalf, with Christian Lealiifano only able to provide cover for a short period. They also parted company with Director or Rugby Les Kiss, with his replacement Jono Gibbes also set to leave in the coming days.

Ulster just about secured Champions Cup qualification on Sunday, but will be without a number of key players next season who are either moving on or retiring – including the likes of Andrew Trimble, Tommy Bowe, Charles Piutau and Robbie Diack.

But Best says he was witnessed some positives and reckons “the future is extremely bright for Ulster Rugby”.

“After a challenging season both on and off the pitch, I thought it was appropriate for me, on behalf of the playing group, to share our thanks for your loyal support once again.” Best wrote.

“As players, we visit clubs, schools and other organisations across the Province on a weekly basis and it is truly humbling to see how much support we have within the community.

I watched yesterday’s game from the stands – the atmosphere was brilliant – and the support was really appreciated by all players, especially those who were saying goodbye.

While it would be easy to look back on the season with some negativity, I would like to share some of the positives that I’ve witnessed.

I would like to pay tribute to my team mates for their fight and spirit throughout. To finish the season unbeaten in our last five games is testament to the character and quality of the players and I couldn’t be prouder of them.

It’s been pleasing to see so many of my teammates grow and develop as players and leaders over the past 12 months.

As a senior player, it is exciting to see that the future is extremely bright for Ulster Rugby. We’ve had eight Academy players experience first team rugby this season and we have a record number of players representing Ireland at under-age level.

Having secured Champions Cup qualification, we will start pre-season with enthusiasm and confidence, and we look forward to welcoming some quality players and coaches into the set-up during the summer.

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the contribution of some great servants to Ulster Rugby who will bid farewell this summer, in particular Andrew Trimble, Paul Marshall, Robbie Diack, Tommy Bowe, Callum Black and Norman Pollock. I wish them and their families all the best for the future.

Thanks again for standing up for us this season. It’s a privilege to continue to represent you.

Rory Best
Captain, Ulster Rugby”