Tag: Sport

Scotland internationals join forces to develop next generation at Merchiston

Greig Laidlaw, Magnus Bradbury and Jamie Dobie bring top-level experience directly to pupils at Edinburgh school

An elite coaching team featuring some of the biggest names in Scottish rugby has come together at Merchiston Castle School as the new term gets underway.

Former Scotland captain Greig Laidlaw is among the high-profile names now working directly with pupils at the Edinburgh school, alongside Scotland internationals Magnus Bradbury and Jamie Dobie.

Led by new Director of Rugby and High Performance Jack Moran, the coaching team brings current and former international experience directly into the school’s rugby programme, building on Merchiston’s long-standing reputation as Scotland’s leading producer of professional rugby players.

For Bradbury and Dobie, the new role brings their rugby journeys full circle. Both developed their game at Merchiston before progressing into professional rugby and representing Scotland, and are now sharing that experience with the next generation coming through the school.

Nick De Luca, Director of Sport and Activities at Merchiston and former Scotland international, said: “Every new term brings new talent through our doors, from boys beginning their rugby journey at eight to those preparing to take their next step beyond school.

“We have a proud track record of developing players who go on to the professional game, including the likes of Magnus and Jamie, and more recently being involved in Jake Dalziel’s journey as he made the move to Newcastle Red Bulls’ senior academy this year.

“But success isn’t only about producing professional players. It’s not simply about spotting talent; it’s about developing all the talent a player has and helping them reach their potential.

“It’s about developing resilience, discipline and ambition in every boy. Having coaches who know first-hand what it takes to reach the highest level – to handle pressure, overcome setbacks and thrive is incredibly powerful. Not just for sport, but for life.”

Greig Laidlaw, former Scotland rugby captain, commented: “It’s great to get started at Merchiston and I’m really looking forward to helping the boys develop in all areas of the game over the coming season and beyond.

“I won’t shy away from working hard on the basic skills needed to excel, while also helping them develop as leaders.”

Jamie Dobie, Scotland international and former Merchiston pupil, said: “I’m delighted to be back helping the next generation of Merchiston players get the most out of their rugby.

“It doesn’t feel that long ago that I was on these pitches with the same hopes and dreams as many of the current boys, so working with them feels like a real full circle moment.”

Magnus Bradbury, Scotland international and former Merchiston pupil, added: “The school gave me a lot during my time here, and it feels good to be able to give something back.

“I’m hoping to share the knowledge and skills I’ve gained throughout my career and make a difference to the boys and their rugby journey.”

To learn more about Merchiston Castle School, please visit:

https://www.merchiston.co.uk/ 

University of Edinburgh Sport unveils Edinburgh Wildcats

Bringing together 70 sports disciplines under one umbrella, Edinburgh Wildcats showcases the sporting prowess from Scotland’s number one sporting university

The University of Edinburgh Sport has unveiled the Edinburgh Wildcats – bringing together all 70 sporting disciplines, from rugby to archery and weightlifting, to showcase the incredible sports prowess of the university.

In a move that will see the university become the first in the UK to adopt the American collegiate sporting model, Edinburgh Wildcats is the country’s biggest multi-sports club and creates a movement that will encourage the community of Edinburgh to get behind the university’s talented athletes.

Bringing together more than 10,000 students across 200 teams, Edinburgh Wildcats has been created to reflect the community built at the University of Edinburgh Sport, which has supported both alumni and current students to compete across a range of competitions, including the most recent Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Paris Olympics and Paralympics.

Scotland’s most decorated athlete, double Olympian Eilidh Doyle, is leading the charge for Edinburgh Wildcats. An alumna of the University and Global Ambassador for Sport, she said: “The facilities and support that young and emerging athletes receive from the university is second to none.

“Through Edinburgh Wildcats this feeling and belief in the achievements that can be created through hard work, dedication and perseverance has been captured.

“It brings all of the athletes together, allowing them to share in one passion and one journey for greatness, while also allowing the local community to get behind them and show their support.”

Mark Munro, University of Edinburgh Director of Sport and Active Health, said: “At the University of Edinburgh Sport we have been able to support a phenomenal number of athletes to perform on a global stage across so many disciplines.

“Through Edinburgh Wildcats our aim is to bring these athletes together and create a space in which to champion the incredible talent that lies within current students and alumni who have come through our doors. 

“The facilities here at the university are second to none, something that can be seen from the volume of international teams choosing to train here while visiting Scotland, and this, paired with the fantastic support of our staff, comes together to create an environment that pushes athletes to greatness.

“Our hope is that through Edinburgh Wildcats we’ll be able to welcome even more students and spectators to discover the sporting expertise we are known for.”

Friday 18 September will see the first official rollout of the Edinburgh Wildcats, during the men’s rugby varsity match at Hive Stadium, Murrayfield where The University of Edinburgh will take on St Andrews University in the World’s oldest Varsity match.

Residents across the capital will also see the new team name put in the spotlight over the coming week, with billboards and digital adverts going live throughout the city. 

Featuring world-class training facilities, The University of Edinburgh Sport is renowned as the number one sports University in Scotland and one of the best in Europe. For over 150 years, the university has assisted some of the most decorated athletes and sporting communities in the world – from Olympians to pioneering researchers – creating a lasting legacy that sees its impact reach across the world.

Notable alumni include Multiple Olympic champion cyclist Sir Chris Hoy; Britain’s most decorated female Olympian, Baroness Katherine Grainger; Scottish Rugby Head Coach,Gregor Townsend; and Commonwealth Games swimmer Archie Goodburn.

For more information on University of Edinburgh Sport, visit:

www.uoesport.ed.ac.uk.   

BLAST: An evening with a Boxing Legend at North Edinburgh Arts

12th NOVEMBER 6 – 8.20pm

We are delighted to announce that BLAST will be hosting British boxing legend Frank Bruno MBE on November 12th at North Edinburgh Arts.

With November being men’s mental health awareness month we wanted to make a powerful statement in addressing it and what better way.

Frank Bruno MBE is a former WBC world heavyweight champion who has faced many challenges in boxing and with mental health and we are delighted he is going to share some of these stories with us on the night.

The evening will consist with doors opening at 6 with some welcoming refreshments (non alcoholic), a photo with Frank and then listening to Franks journey. With the evening coming to an end around 8.15.

Tickets are on sale now for all BLAST members or affiliations.

On general sale from September 18th.

Please note, tickets are limited to only 100. This is a very small and intimate event.

Please contact the FB page with any enquiries or to secure your space.

A special thanks to our sponsors:

Castle Flooring

Johnston Smillie Ltd

Spartans-led consortium to buy Shrewsbury Town FC

CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT

A consortium led by Spartans main shareholder Scott Davidson have been given EFL/IFR approval to purchase Shrewsbury Town FC. 

The deal has yet to be finalised and is yet to receive SFA approval.  The proposed new Board of Shrewsbury Town FC will be chaired by Scott and will also include fellow Spartans directors Will Dotson and Craig Graham, subject to IFR clearance which is expected this week, as well as Brad Friedel the US International and ex Premier League goal-keeper. 

There will be an informal relationship between Spartans FC and Shrewsbury Town FC which will allow both of us to benefit from sharing knowledge and experience. 

We also both have excellent Community Foundations, this deal will provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and mutual learning.

Further information will be shared as the acquisition process proceeds.

Raise a Stein and back a winner at Musselburgh Racecourse Oktoberfest

Musselburgh Racecourse takes on a distinctive Munich-style influence at its next race meeting this Saturday (12 September).

The popular Oktoberfest Raceday – supported by The Royal Regiment of Scotland – is now in its third year and continues to grow in popularity with thousands of racegoers embracing the famous German celebration.

Bavarian oompah bands and bratwurst will be to the fore while on the turf seven quality Flat races – including the £20,000 SCOTS Association Musselburgh Gold Cup – promises a thrilling afternoon of sporting action.

Live oompah band, the Jäger Maestros, will be performing a mix of classic tunes and oompah-style songs while the Oktoberfest Marquee will host a number of fun events, including a stein holding challenge, keg rolling and sing-alongs.

Inspired by the famous Munich Oktoberfest which dates from 1810 and takes place throughout September and October, the East Lothian racecourse has tapped into a rich theme and is encouraging guests to enter the spirt of the raceday by donning traditional lederhosen.

Grand National winning jockey Ryan Mania has completed a soldier’s assault course at Glencorse Barracks and in return a soldier will complete a number of jockey-related challenges at the race meeting. The Regiment will also have a military stand at Oktoberfest setting out some challenges for gallus racegoers.

Street food vans will offer a range of bratwurst, pretzels and German beer, and following the last race (scheduled for 7.20pm) the celebrations continue with an After Racing Party.

The feature race of the day is the £20,000 SCOTS Association Musselburgh Gold Cup over 2m 2f which is supported by six other competitive races, with the first provisionally timed for 4.07pm.

Musselburgh Racecourse Oktoberfest 2025

Musselburgh Racecourse Head of Marketing and Business Development, Aisling Johnston, said: “Our Oktoberfest meeting continues to grow each year and returning visitors love the mix of a fun German-inspired event with competitive horse racing.

“We hope guests will dust off their lederhosen and put their best Bavarian foot forward to come along for what will be a hugely entertaining afternoon and evening, topped off with seven exciting Flat races.”

Gates open on 12 September at 2pm and tickets bought in advance are reduced by £5 for a limited period. Children aged 17 years and under are admitted free with four children permitted per paying adult.

The racecourse provides a free shuttle bus service to and from Wallyford and Newcraighall rail stations on each raceday.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk

Inverleith aiming for European pétanque glory!

Inverleith Pétanque Club will fly the flag for Scotland at the 28th European Cup in France in November.

The Edinburgh outfit locked horns with Newtongrange, Perth and Fochabers in the EuroCup qualifiers at Carnoustie at the weekend for the right to represent Scotland at the major continental tournament, which brings together top club teams from across Europe.

After a tense two days of competition at Auld Alliance Park, Inverleith came out in a head-to-head decider against Fochabers and will now prepare to travel to Sin-Le-Noble, Douai in the north of France where they will take on the cream of Europe from 5-8 November.

Shena Whelan, Treasurer of Inverleith, said: “The IPC team, and the whole of Inverleith Pétanque Club, are extremely proud to have the opportunity to be representing Scotland again at the European Cup for Clubs (‘Eurocup’) in Douai, France in November. 

“It was a hard-fought win against formidable clubs we consider to be our friends. Thanks must go to Carnoustie Pétanque Club for hosting and supporting us all over two long days of play in the Eurocup qualifier.”

Scottish Pétanque Association (SPA) president David Moxham said: “Congratulations to Inverleith, who now carry Scotland’s colours to France in November.

“It was a terrific weekend of competition and it was fitting it all came down the final two games.

“Beyond the competition itself, the weekend showed clubs coming together to support national pétanque. 

“Carnoustie Pétanque Club provided a warm welcome, with players, coaches and officials well looked after throughout. The club’s home on the old curling rink at Maule Street – the Auld Alliance Park – provided a distinctive setting for the qualifier, and the SPA thanks everyone at Carnoustie who gave their time and effort to hosting the event.”

Colin Sinclair, Carnoustie Pétanque Club chairperson, said it was a real honour to be asked to host this important event in the SPA calendar: “Our committee and members got enthusiastically involved in helping plan the event, and in return were treated to a very high standard of play that we hope to aspire to.

“We were very grateful to both Carnoustie Gala committee and Carnoustie Bowling Club for the use of equipment and facilities. The event ran very smoothly and positive feedback was received from both the SPA and the clubs involved.”

Anyone in the local area interested in trying out Pétanque, can contact the club for more details by emailing carnoustiepetanqueclub@gmail.com.

£857,000 investment creates sport and physical activity opportunities for Edinburgh’s young people

Children and young people aged three to 26 will be able to take part in a range of free and low-cost activities thanks to funding from the Summer of Sport initiative in partnership with sportscotland.

Inspired by the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the programme aims to encourage more children and young people to get active, try new sports and enjoy the physical, social, and mental wellbeing benefits of participation.

Delivered by the Council, Edinburgh Leisure, the University of Edinburgh, local sports clubs and community organisations, the funding supports free and subsidised holiday and regular activities that began during the summer holidays and are taking place until the end of March 2027.

This includes swimming, tennis, football, rugby and opportunities for children and young people with additional support needs. It will also expand community sport programmes, provide more opportunities in areas experiencing higher levels of poverty, and support young people who are care experienced, unaccompanied, or learning English.

Investment will also help develop the city’s sport and physical activity workforce through new coaching opportunities, qualifications, and training. The investment includes a £170,000 grant for local sports clubs and community organisations to deliver activities for young people at greater risk of poverty.

Cllr Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener, said: “This is a great opportunity for children and young people to get active, try something new like lawn bowling or cricket and enjoy the benefits of taking part in sport.

“Through the Summer of Sport programme, we’re working with partners across Edinburgh to provide more free and affordable opportunities that are inclusive, accessible, and shaped around the needs of local communities.

“This investment will help more young people take part in sport, while also strengthening local partnerships, developing skills and creating a lasting legacy beyond the summer.”

Cllr James Dalgleish, Education, Children and Families Convener, said: “Every young person deserves the opportunity to be active, build confidence and develop new skills, and cost shouldn’t be a barrier to that.

“By working with schools, community organisations, and sports clubs across Edinburgh, we’re creating more opportunities for children and young people to stay active, make new friends and discover sports they can continue to enjoy for years to come.”

Perrotine Orr, Operations Director of Edinburgh Leisure, said: “This investment is helping us create more opportunities for children and young people across Edinburgh to take part in sport and physical activity, regardless of their background or circumstances.

“We have already seen strong engagement throughout the summer, and the real opportunity now is to build on that momentum over the coming months.

“By continuing to provide free and affordable activities until March 2027, we can help more young people develop confidence, make connections, improve their wellbeing and establish healthy habits that last a lifetime.”

Further information about activities and how to take part will be available on the Council website and the Edinburgh Leisure website.

Backing Scotland’s future football stars

World Cup Fund investment launched

Scotland’s future football stars will benefit from a £500,000 World Cup Fund officially launched by First Minister John Swinney during a visit to Barclays Hampden.

The fund will support a three-year programme delivered in partnership with the Scottish FA to strengthen elite youth development pathways for boys and girls across Scotland.

The programme will provide specialist support to clubs within the boys’ Club Academy Scotland – the national programme for developing young talent at club level – and girls’ Next Gen pathways, enhance player development opportunities and expand the use of performance insights and innovation across the game.

During the visit, the First Minister met young players, coaches and Scottish FA representatives to hear how the investment will help develop talent and support the next generation of Scotland internationals.

First Minister John Swinney said: “Scotland’s return to the World Cup reminded us all of what can be achieved through talent, hard work and ambition. Sport and physical activity can transform lives, and we want to support the next generation of talent in Scottish football.

“Alongside our £20 million Summer of Sport programme to get children and young people active, this World Cup Fund builds on that momentum by investing in the young people who could represent Scotland in years ahead and delivers on my commitment made for the Scottish Government’s first 100 days.

“Supporting both boys’ and girls’ pathways, this investment will help create more opportunities for talented young people, strengthen clubs and support the long-term future of Scottish football.”

Scottish FA’s Chief Football Officer, Craig Mulholland, said: “Scotland was gripped by our return to the World Cup stage this summer, and it united a nation in a way no other event can do.

“It had been too long, and our job is to make sure it’s a regular occurrence.

“We are delighted with the investment and support from the Scottish Government, on the back of their excellent Summer of Sport programme.

“This initiative aligns fully with our Scottish FA strategy. We will take a bespoke, creative, and innovative approach to supporting our club network through Club Academy Scotland, for our boys, and our girls’ Barclays NextGen pathways. Helping our clubs grow in a modern way, using objective insights that will significantly enhance the offering to young Scottish talent – creating better players and coaches.

“We need our young people in Scotland to have ambition and aspire to follow in the footsteps of the exceptional role models we have, such as Andy Robertson and Caroline Weir. Our task, working with the Scottish Government, is to provide the best environment for these dreams to be realised.

“In addition, the wider benefits of football – to the individual, families, communities, and country in general – are apparent.

“We need to harness the power of football, on and off the pitch.”

The £500,000 investment is part of a three-year programme, delivered in partnership with the Scottish FA, running from 2026-2029.

The Scottish Government will invest £500,000, with the Scottish FA contributing a further £85,000.

Caledonia Gladiators launch 2026/27 fixtures with greater value for fans

Scotland’s professional basketball club, Caledonia Gladiators, is encouraging fans to secure their seats for the 2026/27 season, with Season Tickets now offering greater value than ever across both the men’s and women’s teams.

Fixtures are now confirmed with the Gladiators returning to East Kilbride this September for their fourth season at the 1,600-capacity Arena at Playsport, with the new campaign bringing another season of top-level basketball to Scotland.

With players travelling from as far as the US and as close to home as Falkirk, fans can secure their place at every home game through a Season Ticket, with packages designed to make following the Gladiators throughout the season more accessible.

Season Tickets for the women’s team start from just £115, while men’s Season Tickets start from £280. Junior Season Tickets are available from £54, while families can follow the women’s team for £284 for a family of four, with a family Season Ticket for the men’s team available for £625.

The value-led pricing comes as the Gladiators continue to see their fanbase grow across both teams. Following the women’s historic campaign at the Playoff Finals earlier this year, Season Ticket sales for women’s games have already increased by 20%, highlighting the growing appetite for women’s basketball and the momentum behind the club.

Season Ticket holders become part of the new and exclusive Courtside Club to benefit from a host of exclusive perks, including a guaranteed seat at every home game, discounts, exclusive access to players, discounts with club partners and more.

Tony McDaid, CEO of Caledonia Gladiators, said: “We want to make following the Gladiators for the season as accessible and rewarding as possible, whether you’re a long-time supporter, a family coming to basketball for the first time or a fan who wants to make sure they never miss a game.

“We’ve introduced a new Season Ticket structure that we believe offers fantastic value across both our men’s and women’s teams, while giving supporters the chance to be part of everything we are building here in Scotland.

“In particular, we know how important families are to our club, so being able to offer junior Season Tickets from just £54 and family packages that make watching live basketball more affordable is something we’re really pleased to introduce.

“Our ambition is to build a basketball nation and our supporters are at the heart of that. A Season Ticket is more than just a seat – it’s the opportunity to be there for the big moments, support our players and be part of the Gladiators community throughout the season.”

Caledonia Gladiators will officially return to the court on 20 September 2026 at 4pm for the 2026/27 Season Opener, with the men taking on Super League Basketball’s newest team, Liverpool Basketball, for the first time.

With fixtures now confirmed, fans can secure their Season Tickets now and guarantee their seat for the campaign, while benefiting from the club’s new value-led pricing structure.

Season Tickets and individual game tickets are available now at:

caledoniagladiators.com.