MEMBERS OLD AND NEW CAME TOGETHER TO SHARE MEMORIES OF THE CLUB’S HISTORY, INSPIRED BY MAROON AND WHITE STRIPES
As The Watsonian Football Club celebrates its 150th year, former players and current members came together at the Pavilion at Myreside, adorning variations of the club’s famous maroon and white kit.
With every kit telling a story and sparking memories both on and off the pitch, the opportunity was created for newer members to hear about the ‘Sonians’ that came before them, and for some of the club’s greats to be remembered for their contributions.
From recent triumphs like the Sarah Beaney Cup victories to the rich history of rugby legends who proudly wore the Watsonians crest, the significance of The Watsonian Football Club was brought to life through a remarkable collection of classic jerseys, many of which were rediscovered after years tucked away in attics and drawers. These kits serve as powerful reminders of the club’s lasting impact on generations of players and supporters over the past 150 years.
Marking its 150th year, The Watsonian Football Club is committed to reigniting and energising the community that has shaped its storied journey. A series of ongoing celebratory events and initiatives will complement the club’s on-field achievements, including four successful senior teams and a thriving youth section.
Through sharing their memories made in maroon and white, it quickly became clear that no matter where life has taken people, being part of The Watsonian Football Club is something that leaves a lasting impact.
With a framed shirt by his side, former Club Captain, John Macdonald, reflected on his time playing for Watsonians, saying: “This is all very nostalgic.
“I remember that at my peak, we were playing Melrose with a crowd of 7,500 watching. My sons still think I am winding them up when I bring it up, but they’ve seen some of the old footage. It was a different day, a different game, and obviously things move on, but it was a really golden period to be a part of the club.”
The game of rugby and the landscape of the sport in Scotland continue to be ever-changing, but The Watsonian Football Club has been able to enjoy its long history by adapting and growing with the game.
Notable ways that the club has done so in recent times include the introduction of Watsonian Women’s in the late 90s and success being enjoyed at the semi-professional level with the introduction of the now disbanded Super Series.
Kath Vass, a stalwart of Watsonians Women’s for 17 years, repping a stitched-together 2005 Watsonian Women’s kit, shared memories of success: “When we won the top league in Scottish women’s rugby, it was something truly special.
“Being able to bring the trophy here, to Myreside, is something that I will never forget. When I joined what was known as Watsonian Ladies in the year 2000, it was perfect.
“Having previously played elsewhere but living a stone’s throw away from Myreside, I was welcomed with open arms and immediately wowed by the community and professionalism of the club.”
Departing Club Captain and Super Series winner, Neil Irvine-Hess, reminisced on recent memories, adding: “Having played for Watsonians as a teen, I returned to the club in 2022 after a stint in the Borders.
“It was an honour to get asked to captain the Super Series team two years ago, and it’s something that I have taken seriously ever since. It is special and helps you appreciate the long history of the club.
“When I finish playing, I will look back with pride on my name being amongst so many great Watsonians players. The community at Watsonians is brilliant, from being dragged to the ground by the minis at a family day to winning the Super Series Championship, it is special to be part of The Watsonian Football Club’s history.”
With multiple Watsonians teams across different generations enjoying the highs of success and battling through tougher seasons, it has been important for the club to welcome players from across Edinburgh and further afield to sustain competitiveness and create a growing community.
By rediscovering the magic and the memories possessed by old stripes of maroon and white, The Watsonian Football Club continues to inspire its community to come together during its milestone 150th year.
With a full calendar of events planned in the lead-up to the 150th Gala Dinner in November, The Watsonian Football Club warmly invites past and present members to be part of this historic 2025 celebrations.
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