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NIGEL
CARR
Carr and Matthews go together like the proverbial horse and carriage. Their
joint rugby careers started at Regent House, Newtownards, where both played
on the first Regent side to get to the Ulster Schools' Cup final in 1977. Regrettably,
Nigel who was captain of the team, was unable to play as a result of injury.
Although a student at Queen's University, whose 1st XV side he graced with distinction
for a number of years, Nigel turned out with Ards in his first year out of school.
He was, indeed, a member of the team that won promotion to the Ulster Senior
League. Representative honours came thick and fast for Nigel: Ulster caps, Ireland
U23 caps and a record number of Ireland 'B' caps through the early 80's. He
was awarded his full Ireland cap on his return to Ards when he played for his
country against Scotland in January 1985. He gained 12 caps for Ireland and,
along with Philip Matthews, featured in all games in the 1984/85 Triple Crown
success. Nigel went on to the pinnacle of rugby success with his selection in
April 1986 for the British Lions in the International Rugby Board's Centenary
game against the Rest of the World.
Nigel
can be seen presenting the UTV Sport on Sunday programme as well as appearances
as a pundit on Ulster and Ireland games.
The
Carr dynasty continues at Ards with son Jamie playing for the Club.