Campbell College captain dedicates Schools' Cup triumph to 'our 16th man' John McKinney

McKinney enjoyed a proud 43-year association with Campbell, serving as senior coach and later Master in Charge of Rugby, and was never too far from the players’ thoughts as they ran out at Ravenhill with his initials etched onto their sleeves.

He had a profound impact on thousands of rugby hopefuls who passed through the school’s gates, including the current crop of stars, and a desire to deliver in McKinney’s memory drove them to a last-gasp 26-22 triumph on the biggest stage.

"Yeah, it's amazing,” reflected Henry. “Mr McKinney gave so much, not just to rugby, but to school life in general.

"Playing with his initials on our sleeve, I think it motivated us because we knew he's our 16th man and it was something we talked about in the lead up to the game.

"I just think it was about doing him proud...we’re all so happy and proud that we were able to get over the line for him and for each other.”

The Schools’ Cup, which was first contested in 1876, remains one of the biggest occasions on the Northern Ireland sporting calendar with thousands in attendance on Tuesday.

It’s the pinnacle for every young rugby player in Ulster, acting as the final chapter of a school career for many, and Henry added his name to an illustrious list of winning captains.

"It's unbelievable,” he added. “It genuinely doesn't feel real, especially to do it in the way we did.

"Winning with the final play, I can't put into words how happy I am. It's a dream come true.

"We're such a tight group and I think it's something we put real emphasis on...this year, it's just about having a really, really tight group of mates who are willing to play for each other, I think it showed today.

"I'm just so proud to captain the team and to get it over the line.”