The resource is split into two parts. Firstly, there is an online video presentation delivered by Ulster Rugby’s Charity Partner Extern, who specialise in supporting the wellbeing of young people and families. The presentation includes some top tips for building resilience and looking after your mental health, plus Ulster and Ireland players Stuart McCloskey and Eric O’Sullivan have also recorded some examples of how they have had to use resilience when dealing with setbacks or challenges in their own careers and personal lives. The second part is a workbook to help put the advice into practice, with some more guidance on identifying and dealing with stressful situations.

The full resource can be viewed at: www.ulsterrugby.com/resilience-resource

Commenting on the launch of the new resource, Ulster Rugby Head of Rugby Development, Chris Webster, said: “As we adapt to the new circumstances that prevent us from delivering these sessions in person, we are delighted to be able to develop this innovative new online resource in partnership with Phoenix Natural Gas and Extern. Having seen how popular the previous Lineout Programme sessions have been, I have no doubt that this resource will be very well received by schools and other community groups right across the province.

“Building mental resilience is particularly important during the challenging times that we are all facing, so I’m sure that the advice in this resource will have a real positive impact among young people.”

Jonathan Martindale, Director of Business Development at Phoenix Natural Gas, added: “Standing shoulder to shoulder with young people has never been more important than it is now, with kitchens becoming classrooms and restrictions impacting their social interactions, there is a real need to equip our young people with the resilience skills they need to help them deal with these challenging times.

“While we can’t come to the classroom, we’re delighted to line out with young people virtually to help them think about and develop their resilience through this session.”

For further information on the programme please contact gillian.orr@phoenixnaturalgas.com