Tag: Scottish Rugby

Leith Rugby Club crowned winners of Royal Bank RugbyForce

Annual grassroots sustainability programme provides vital funds as the nation’s clubs look ahead to the new season

Leith Rugby Club has been awarded £1,000 and a chance to meet Scotland International stars, after gaining Hero Club status in this year’s Royal Bank RugbyForce initiative.

Beating strong competition from over 130 entries, the Edinburgh club will receive its prize ahead of Royal Bank RugbyForce Weekend* on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th August.

The weekend typically see’s rugby clubs across Scotland host a range a pre-season events, such as volunteer DIY and Community Fun Days, raising awareness of the positive impact that Scotland’s grassroots clubs have within their local areas.

Royal Bank RugbyForce is a nationwide rugby programme launched by Royal Bank of Scotland in association with Scottish Rugby. Since launch, more than half a million pounds has been distributed, directly benefiting three-quarters of amateur rugby clubs in Scotland.

With the pandemic causing unprecedented financial pressures, this year’s funding will help amateur clubs across Scotland to improve facilities, attract new members and to develop sustainable futures.

In partnership with Scottish Rugby, and subject to Covid-protocol at the time, Leith Rugby club will be visited by Scotland Internationals on RugbyForce Weekend*, including players from the women’s national XV, the men and women’s sevens teams or ex-legends of the Scottish game.

To help clubs through this period where they have to adapt to new guidelines, Royal Bank has also developed a toolkit for grassroots clubs, including information and advice on how they can remain financially sustainable, helping them to safeguard their clubs and the sport for the future. 

The bank has also provided ‘Return to Rugby’ kits including social distancing solutions, directional signage and sanitation essentials as well as new bibs, balls and cones.

New for this year, grassroots heroes aged 18-35 from Scotland’s local rugby club have been encouraged to apply to become ‘Young Ambassadors’ as part of a fresh focus on the future by broadening the diversity of rugby club boardrooms.

The programme is working together with Scottish Rugby to appoint 10 Young Ambassadors onto club committees, providing them with an additional £500 grant from Royal Bank to deliver a project of their choosing.

An announcement on the winning Young Ambassadors will take place on the 19th July. Winners will be selected from all five Scottish Rugby regions and will be picked based on how their project helps their club to broaden their appeal in the local community and create positive societal change, as well as the great work they are currently delivering through their commitment to their club.

Jamie Drummond, club captain at Leith Rugby Club said: “Royal Bank RugbyForce Weekend is marked out in our calendars every season and we’re absolutely delighted to be one of this year’s winners.

“It’s been a tough eighteen months for clubs like ours up and down the country and programmes like this have proven to be more vital than ever. We can’t wait for RugbyForce Weekend and hopefully we can put on a fantastic event for our local community, bringing our club together and welcoming as many new faces as we possibly can.”

Malcolm Buchanan, Chairman, Royal Bank of Scotland, Scotland Board, said: “Leith Rugby Club thoroughly deserve their Royal Bank RugbyForce award win having delivered some vital work in their local community throughout the pandemic. 

“After a year where the resilience and spirit of the grassroots game has been tested like never before, we are proud to maintain our continued commitment to the Scottish game and we are really looking forward to helping Leith and rugby clubs across the country to get back on their feet and return to the action on the pitch.”

The Leith club is celebrating it’s centenary this year:

Season 2021/22 will mark 100 years since, in 1921, the Leith Academicals Rugby Football Club was formed through a grant from the Leith Academy F.P. Association and the start of 100 consecutive years of rugby in Leith.

From the early days as one of the top junior clubs in Scotland, through our wonderful 70 years at Hawkhill, to today and our fantastic Academy Park home, we’ve lots to remember, cherish and celebrate.

To ensure we do that in a style befitting the birthday season, we’ve a range of events and activities planned as part of our centenary programme. We’re adding more events and details of those planned as they’re confirmed, and you can follow keep up to date on Facebook and at our website: https://bit.ly/2RDOazY

We hope you’ll participate in any and the many that interest you, as we bring the Leith Rugby community together to mark what will be a memorable season, as we honour our past, and continue to build our future.

#persevere

BT extend to a decade of support to Scottish rugby

Scottish Rugby Principal Partner BT has agreed to extend its support for the sport in Scotland in an updated deal which will see it reach ten years with the national governing body.

BT will retain the naming rights to Scotland’s largest stadium, BT Murrayfield in Edinburgh.

The new three-year arrangement will see BT also secure the front of shirt sponsor placement for the Scotland 7s team for the upcoming 2021/22 season.

BT will also see its logo remain on the Scotland national team jersey albeit in a different position on the nape of the neck, which will first be seen on a newly designed jersey for the 2021/22 season, which will be unveiled this summer.

The new deal also sees BT reconnect with the Scotland Women team and this renewed focus on female rugby sees the Principal Partner’s logo feature in a new back of shirt position on the 2021/22 season jersey.

BT first signed with Scottish Rugby in October 2014 in a transformational deal for the sport.

Since 2014, BT’s investment has helped redefine the rugby landscape in Scotland through investment in the Scottish Rugby Academy, which it helped to launch and previously sponsored, BT league and cup competitions, as well as supporting the Club Sustainability Fund to provide investment in capital projects at grassroot clubs.

BT continued to provide an incredible level of support to Scottish Rugby during the last 12 months of the Covid-19 pandemic, which demonstrated the strength of the partnership and its commitment to rugby in Scotland.

The Scotland national team have also benefitted from a series of technical innovations powered by BT including the use of Artificial Intelligence to support non-contact training and immersive technology to bring fans closer to the team.

Its technical hardware has also been used by the team’s performance analysts and helped the players and coaches stay connected with family and friends during the lockdown period.

With over 7,000 people working across the country BT is present in every community in Scotland in much the same way as rugby is represented at grassroots level.

Alan Lees, Scotland director, BT’s Enterprise business, said: “We’re honoured and excited to be able to extend our role as one of Scottish Rugby’s Principal Partners, taking our relationship to ten years, until 2024.

Since our partnership started, my colleagues and I have been proudly standing alongside Scottish Rugby and we’ve seen the game in Scotland change, with amazing results. From the national teams to grassroots rugby, rugby in Scotland has transformed into something the nation can be proud of.

“As lead partners also of Scottish Football, we recognise the role inclusive sport has in empowering young people, helping them to reach their potential.

“Throughout the past year our fibre broadband and 4G & 5G mobile networks have underpinned our lives in unprecedented ways, enabling us to work from home, home school and stay connected with loved ones. 

“While it’s been a difficult time for many sectors and sports, including rugby, we hope this renewed partnership will ensure that Scottish Rugby, and the communities they’re based in, can emerge from the crisis stronger than before.”

Scottish Rugby Chief Executive, Mark Dodson said: “It says everything about the quality and strength of our partnership with BT that we can conclude a further extension which will see us achieve 10 years of working together to support rugby in Scotland.

“I would like to thank Alan Lees and his BT colleagues for their continued support, especially over the past 12 months, which have been difficult for every business in the country.

“Back in 2014 BT helped Scottish Rugby to launch what is now a well-established Academy programme which has already generated players who have represented their country and many more who are supporting our professional teams.

“It is positive news for everyone involved in rugby in Scotland that BT will continue to work with us through this exciting extension.”

Scottish Rugby’s Chief Operating Officer, Dominic McKay said: “I am really proud that we can continue to work with BT as one of Scottish Rugby’s Principal Partners.

“Every business in the country has been challenged by the recent pandemic and so to be able to maintain and extend our relationship with such a significant blue-chip company in BT shows the quality of their people and organisation.

“I am really pleased we have been able to bring new elements into a long-term partnership and help BT reach communities, through rugby, across Scotland.”

Scottish Rugby signs Peter Vardy Group as new Principal Partner & Scotland shirt sponsor

Scottish Rugby has secured the Peter Vardy Group as a Principal Partner and new front of shirt sponsor for the Scotland national team in a four-year deal commencing in the summer of 2021.

The new partnership begins this summer when the 2021/22 season team kit, designed by Macron, is launched which will be the first to feature Peter Vardy Group’s name and logo.

Peter Vardy Group will also be the back of shirt sponsor for Scotland 7s from the 2021/22 season and the broad ranging deal also encompasses becoming the Edinburgh Rugby car partner, with branding also included on the capital pro-team kit. 

The Peter Vardy Group is a Scottish family run automotive business, consisting of a motor retailer with 15 dealerships representing marques such as Porsche, Jaguar, Land Rover, BMW, MINI, Vauxhall, its own brand used car supermarkets, CARZ, and a classic car dealership, Peter Vardy Heritage.

CarMoney is the Group’s online finance broker and another Group business, SilverBullet, is a software provider to the UK automotive industry. 

In another significant move which underlines its ambitious growth plans, the Peter Vardy Group has also, this week, launched its new car leasing business, Peter Vardy Leasing. 

The Peter Vardy Group’s purpose is “We Sell to Give”, with 10% of the Group’s annual profits going directly to the Peter Vardy Foundation which support children and young people across the UK and worldwide.

The company has previously been Scottish Rugby’s car partner between 2014-2017, and now moves to become one of Scottish Rugby’s Principal Partners. 


Peter Vardy Group Chief Executive, Peter Vardy said: “As a Scottish family business we are very proud to be the Principal Partner of Scottish Rugby.

“We have long been keen supporters of Scottish Rugby, both commercially and as fans and I believe we share similar values. We have built our business on passion, ambition, courage, and we see that lived out by these fantastic athletes every time they pull on the blue jersey. We are incredibly proud that our brand will be recognised with our national rugby team. 

“Commercially, of course, it is a fantastic opportunity to promote our brands across the UK and globally; over eight million people watched the recent Scotland versus England game – that level of exposure is massive for us. 

“Coming off the back of some exceptional performances from Scotland in the Guinness Six Nations, we are really excited about what the future holds for Scottish Rugby and now as Principal Partner we look forward to working together.”

Scottish Rugby’s Chief Executive Mark Dodson said: “We are delighted to welcome a respected and widely known Scottish business in Peter Vardy into the top level of our sponsor family.

“They have been great partners with us in the recent past and it is a testament to their vision and connection to rugby that they will now be seen on a global basis on the front of Scotland’s national team jersey.

“I’d like to thank Peter and his team for their support to Scottish Rugby so far and look forward to working with them in the coming years as we bring this new partnership to life.”

Scottish Rugby’s Chief Operating Officer, Dominic McKay said: “The whole of sport has been impacted by the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, so it is especially pleasing to move into the new season with a new Principal Partner in Peter Vardy.

“As a dynamic family business Peter Vardy has shown a fantastic commitment to our sport at a challenging economic time and having a Scottish company connected so closely to our national team makes this new partnership even more special.

“We hope this prominent sponsorship will deepen its connection with customers in Scotland and take the company’s profile to a wider international audience in the years to come.”

Tackling mental health for National Breathing Space Day

Glasgow Hutchesons’ Aloysians Rugby Club has teamed up with Breathing Space, Scotland’s mental health phone service, to encourage Scots to take some time out for their mental health.

The initiative is part of a wider partnership between Breathing Space and Scottish Rugby, to raise awareness of the confidential support the phoneline provides for anyone feeling low or stressed.

A video featuring GHA players and their top tips on how to de-stress, will be shared online on National Breathing Space Day (1st February).

Tony McLaren, Breathing Space National Coordinator, said: “Rugby is a challenging sport, it’s inspiring to hear how these young players stay mentally healthy through physical activity.

“We’re also getting the message across that our helpline is available in the evenings and weekends for anyone who is struggling and needs a listening ear.”

Breathing Space receive around 8,000 calls each month from people across Scotland struggling with their mental health. Trained advisors are able to give support and advice on a wide range of issues, including loneliness, relationship issues and anxiety.

Mental Health Minister Clare Haughey said: “Breathing Space do important work to support people across Scotland who are feeling low, stressed or anxious. Taking steps early on to improve mental wellbeing by caring for ourselves and for others is so important.

“Our Mental Health Strategy stresses that we want to see a Scotland where more people are more active, more often, in part because being active is good for our mental wellbeing. So I think it’s great that Breathing Space are linking up with GHA Rugby Club to support the role that sport and physical activity can play in maintaining good mental wellbeing.”

Brian Tracey, President of GHA RFC, added: “When I took over the presidency it coincided with a couple of tragic events surrounding players at nearby clubs.

“It made me determined that we as a club put in place a framework of help and support. Breathing Space have been part of that network and we value their partnership with GHA.”

Breathing Space is available on freephone 0800 83 85 87, from 6pm to 2am weekdays and 24 hours at the weekend.

GHA will be taking part in the U18 Scottish Cup Semi Final vs Hawick on 1st February.

Travel advice for rugby fans

Rugby fans heading to watch Scotland in the Autumn Tests this month are being advised to take note of traffic and travel information.

In their first match this Saturday (10 November, kick-off 2.30pm), Scotland are playing host to Fiji and tens of thousands of spectators are expected to flock to BT Murrayfield Stadium for the sell-out fixture.

To ensure pedestrian safety and to minimise traffic disruption, pedestrian diversions will be implemented around the Haymarket Station area over the next three weekends.

The Council is working closely with Police Scotland to keep road and pedestrian traffic moving smoothly before and after the games.

And Edinburgh Trams will be running services to the Stadium from every three minutes, with extra staff on hand to help customers.

Transport Convener Councillor Lesley Macinnes said: “The Autumn Tests always create a great buzz in the Capital and we’re anticipating hundreds of thousands of spectators to flock to Murrayfield to see Scotland in action over the next three weekends. 

“Please take heed of travel advice and road closure information to help you plan your journey in advance. And go Scotland!”

Road Closures & Restrictions  

There are a number of temporary traffic and parking restrictions in place on nearby streets on match days.

Supporters attending any of the fixtures using any nearby on-street parking are advised to check the timings of the road closures as they may be parked within an area that is affected by the various post-match closures.

Access/egress will not be available during the road closure times, including areas such as Haymarket Yards, the Stanhope area, Wester Coates area, Balbirnie Place and parts of the Roseburn area.

Pedestrian Management

To ensure pedestrian safety and to minimise traffic disruption, pedestrian movement will be safely managed around the Haymarket area following the match.

Those heading back into the city centre or Haymarket Station may experience delays due to the available width for the number of supporters heading along this corridor.

Alternative routes back to the city centre are available via Magdala Crescent, Coates Gardens or Rosebery Crescent. Access into Haymarket Station will be managed across the tram tracks. Trams will still be running so members of the public are asked to be patient and take advice from the stewards and Police who are there to ensure their safety.

Unlike previous fixtures there will be NO route back to the city centre/Haymarket Station via Balbirnie Place/Haymarket Yards. Pedestrians heading along Russell Road will be directed to Dalry Road as an alternative route back to the City Centre.

Please note that these diversions will not add any significant length on to pedestrians’ route and will have no affect to journey times as delays to pedestrian movement will be reduced.

These measures are there for the safety of all road users. Further assistance and instruction will be given to rail passengers as they approach Haymarket Station.

Supporters must allow plenty of extra time for their journey to the game. There are plenty of activities to enjoy at BT Murrayfield before the match, with lots of food and drink options available.

Identical arrangements are planned for Saturday 17 November, when Scotland will face South Africa in another sell-out match kicking off 5.20pm, and Saturday 24 November, when the hosts will take on Argentina (kick-off 2.30pm).

Information about getting to and from BT Murrayfield Stadium by bus, tram or rail for the Autumn Tests can be found on the Scottish Rugby website.

Full details of temporary road closures and parking restrictions are available on the Council website.

FOOTBALL FANS HAVE A BALL DURING BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR OF BT MURRAYFIELD

Scottish Rugby gave exclusive access to supporters and youth players from Spartans FC

Ahead of the SFA’s decision on the future home of Scottish Football, 100 football fans were given the chance to see BT Murrayfield for themselves during an exclusive tour. Continue reading FOOTBALL FANS HAVE A BALL DURING BEHIND THE SCENES TOUR OF BT MURRAYFIELD