It may be the business end of the SSS competitive season, but we’ve been hot on recruitment and are thrilled to unveil Ruairidh Campbell as our new Communications Coordinator!

We caught up with Ruairidh in his first week as the rugby referee kicks off his time at 48 Pleasance.

What are you most excited about in joining the SSS team?

100% it has to be getting the chance to tell the stories of everyone that helps contribute to Scottish Student Sport. I think everyone involved, whether participating, volunteering or just following, knows of the people and characters without whom sport just wouldn’t be the same.

It’s also going to be lots fun being back on the ground at SSS events. These were always a highlight of the year in my student days so it will be great to capture all the energy and excitement on the day. Lucky for me the SS Athletics Outdoor Championships will be one of my first events.

Take us back to your student sports days. How were you involved?

I spent five fantastic years at the University of Glasgow with most of my time focused on the Athletics Club. When I first joined in 2016, we still had Laura Muir (then fresh from the Rio Olympics) as a member so it was pretty surreal arriving at a flat party to see her there! Over my time with the club I competed at every opportunity on the track and spent a few years on the club committee; ultimately leading to me joining the Scottish Student Athletics Development Group as Vice Chair.

What was your best student sport memory/experience?

My athletics career certainly peaked when I represented Glasgow as Gus (the tiger) in the BUCS Nationals mascot race. By far it was the hardest race of my life (the head especially was a nightmare to keep on) but we had a lot of fun and raised some money for charity too.

Are you still active in sport?

I still try to compete in athletics on the road and track but these days I’m mostly found on the rugby pitch as a match official. Week to week I referee in the FOSROC Super Series and assistant referee the professional URC and EPCR competitions. I also ref 7s internationally which has led to me travelling to some pretty cool places.

One match I’m yet to tick off though is the BUCS Scottish Conference Final so I may have to change that next year!

What’s your ideal holiday destination?

Italy is definitely a favourite. The food, the scenery, the food again – how could you not love the country? The next holiday plan involves taking a campervan around the Dolomites which I’m very excited for. Saying that, it’s also very hard to beat the Outer Hebrides on one of those rare days the weather is on your side.

Pineapple on pizza: yes or no?

At risk of being turned back at the border on my next visit to Italy I better say no!

To chat about all things SSS media, Ruairidh can be reached at ruairidh@scottishstudentsport.com

Rugby photo ©: Bryan Robertson