In a thrilling rugby match that pitted Limerick's Shannon Rugby Club against the formidable Dublin University Rugby Club, an unexpected reunion unfolded, highlighting the far-reaching connections of the Downlands community.

The game, characterised by its fierce competition and sportsmanship, took an interesting turn when two opposing forwards discovered a shared piece of home. Angus Ryan (2011), representing Shannon Rugby Club, and John Vinson (2013), playing for Dublin University, found themselves not just as competitors on the field but as fellow Australians and, more surprisingly, both past students of Downlands. The realisation came post-match, as the two caught up, uncovering their shared origins.

Despite the day ending in a victory for the home team, Dublin University, the real triumph was the unexpected Downlands reunion on foreign soil. Brendan Ryan, Angus's father, reflected on the encounter with a sense of awe, noting, "For John and Angus to first meet on a rugby field at Trinity College in Ireland is testament to how small our large world has really become, and how far the Downlands connection goes." This sentiment resonates with the Downlands community, a reminder of the bonds that extend across continents and the unexpected moments that bring us closer, no matter where in the world we find ourselves.