2012–13 Ulster Rugby season
The 2012–13 season was Ulster's 19th season since the advent of professionalism in rugby union, and their first under head coach Mark Anscombe. In 2012, Anscombe was named the new Ulster head coach, replacing Brian McLaughlin who failed to get his contract re-signed. Major signings included Nick Williams from the now defunct Aironi and Tommy Bowe returning from his four-year stay at the Ospreys. Ulster started the season with 13 consecutive wins in all competitions, the longest unbeaten run in their history. They finished top of the table with 17 wins, and after  beating Welsh side Scarlets in the semi-finals 28–17, it was an-all Ireland final between Ulster and Leinster. Leinster were the eventual champions, defeating Anscombe's side 24–18. In Europe, Ulster was seeded fifth after the pool phase of the 2012–13 Heineken Cup, but they were defeated by Saracens in the quarters 27–16. Ulster's second team, the Ulster Ravens, competed in the British and Irish Cup, finishing second in their pool. Centre Nevin Spence died, along with his brother Graham and father Noel, in an accident at the family farm in Hillsborough, County Down on 15 September 2012 . where they were overcome by fumes in a slurry tank. Spence's sister was treated in hospital and survived the accident. As a mark of respect for Spence, a minute's silence was observed at many rugby games in Britain and Ireland the following week. A memorial service was held at Ravenhill Stadium, the home ground of Ulster Rugby, on Sunday 23 September 2012. Pro12. Final. The final was contested on Saturday, 25 May 2013, between the winners of the two semi-finals. End-of-season awards. 2012–2013 Dream Team Ulster Rugby Awards. The Ulster Rugby Awards ceremony was held  on 10 May 2013. Winners were: