Scottish Student Rugby Returns

Scottish Student Rugby returns with a first Men’s National Squad fixture since 2019 later this month, against Newcastle Red Bulls Students.

Bringing together some of the best student players in Scotland, the programme provides an opportunity for players to be challenged and develop whilst experience a high-performance environment.

The fixture, taking place on Wednesday 29th April at Kingston Park, kicks off at 18:30 with tickets available for just £5 (free for u18s) here.

The return of a National Squad programme has been led by volunteers from across the student game in Scotland who have been keen to provide an opportunity that complements the existing performance pathway, giving players sitting just outside traditional systems a chance to be seen, gain exposure and push themselves.

With this year’s fixture acting as a pilot, it is hoped that an expanded programme can be introduced in the future, including the reintroduction of a Women’s National Squad. Programmes like this are reliant on committed volunteers and any individuals who would like to support a possible squad in the fixture are encouraged to contact SSS Rugby Lead Ruairidh Campbell.

The squad to travel to Newcastle will be led by University of St. Andrews Director of Rugby David Morris, who said:

“I am incredibly passionate about University and College rugby and the student athlete experience. The return of the Scottish Student Rugby programme is very important in showcasing the talent within our system. It is a representative programme and it matters that everyone involved reflects their journey and community with pride.”

David Morris has a wealth of experience in student rugby having previously been Director of Rugby at Loughborough University, coaching the side to a BUCS Championship, victory over England U20s, and progression into National League 1.

He will be supported by Bob McKillop (University of Stirling) and Dave Hampton (Heriot-Watt University) who each bring strong knowledge of the Scottish pathway and player development environments.

Bob McKillop, who coached the Scotland Club XV alongside head coach roles at the University of Stirling and Heriot’s this season, commented:

“There’s a huge amount of potential in the student game. Bringing this programme back gives players a chance to connect into something and push themselves in a different environment.”

Dave Hampton added:

“The student game is full of talent and ambition. This programme is a great way to give players a real insight into high-performance rugby and help them prepare for the next step in their development.”

Coordinating the programme’s revival is Lewis Skinner (University of Glasgow), who highlighted the volunteer effort behind it:

“I’m hopeful this programme can grow into something that complements the performance pathway and gives players a real opportunity to develop. Every single person involved is volunteering their time because they believe in the student game, and I want to thank everyone who has helped make this happen. We are also grateful to Newcastle Red Bulls for their support with this fixture.”

There is strong evidence that the student game can produce great players with over 200 athletes progressing from BUCS leagues into professional pathways in the last decade. This programme intends to provide a structured step for the next generation, providing opportunities for players, coaches and support staff to gain experience in a high-performance environment.

Over 70 players were nominated by coaches and captains from across Scotland’s universities and colleges. A trial squad will convene for the first time next week before a final squad is announced in the build-up to the game.

Their opposition, Newcastle Red Bulls Students, will be made up of players from the Universities of Durham, Newcastle and Northumbria. As some of the top rugby-performing universities in England, the team will provide quality opposition for our side.

The squad will be one of a number to play under the Scottish Student Sport (SSS) name this season. Ruairidh Campbell, SSS Rugby Lead said:

“It’s exciting to see our Rugby National Squad take shape. This year we will have National Squad activity across six sports and the return of rugby to the fold is a welcome addition.

We are indebted to our volunteers who have spearheaded this initiative, and our members for supporting the activity. We hope a successful pilot this month will pave the way for a sustainable programme moving forward, providing opportunities for students in Scotland.”

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