The Backbone of Aberdeenshire RFC: Celebrating Our Volunteer Community
At the heart of Aberdeenshire RFC’s success lies a dedicated community of volunteers whose tireless efforts have been pivotal in shaping the club’s rich history and bright future. From the touchline to the clubhouse, these unsung heroes have selflessly donated their time, expertise, and unwavering passion, ensuring that players of all ages and skill levels can thrive on the rugby pitch.
Cultivating a Thriving Youth Program
One of the cornerstones of Aberdeenshire RFC’s longstanding legacy is its exceptional youth development program. This would not be possible without the unwavering commitment of our volunteer coaches, who pour their hearts into nurturing the next generation of rugby talent.
Dave Thomson, a former Aberdeenshire RFC player himself, has been instrumental in this regard. For over a decade, he has dedicated countless hours to leading the club’s under-16 squad, ensuring that young players not only hone their technical skills but also develop the resilience, teamwork, and sportsmanship that are the hallmarks of the Aberdeenshire RFC spirit.
“It’s truly rewarding to see these young players grow, both on and off the pitch,” Dave shares. “Watching them progress from nervous newcomers to confident, skilled athletes is what drives me to keep coming back season after season.”
Alongside Dave, a cohort of equally passionate volunteers, including Fiona Buchanan, Graeme Milne, and Liam Mackay, have played pivotal roles in shaping the club’s youth program. Their dedication to providing a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment for players of all backgrounds has been instrumental in fostering a sense of community and pride within the club.
Strengthening the Women’s Rugby Initiative
In recent years, Aberdeenshire RFC has placed a renewed emphasis on growing its women’s rugby program, recognizing the immense talent and potential that exists within the local community. At the forefront of this initiative are a group of dedicated volunteers who have worked tirelessly to break down barriers and create opportunities for female athletes to thrive.
Sarah Ingram, a former international rugby player, has been the driving force behind this movement. As the club’s women’s rugby coordinator, she has spearheaded recruitment efforts, organized skill-building clinics, and fostered a supportive and inclusive environment for players of all skill levels.
“It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the women’s game at Aberdeenshire RFC grow in popularity and recognition,” Sarah enthuses. “Our volunteers have been pivotal in creating a space where female players feel empowered, respected, and celebrated for their contributions to the sport.”
Joining Sarah in this endeavor are Caitlin Macdonald, Erin Sutherland, and Fiona Robertson, each bringing their unique experiences and expertise to help develop the club’s women’s rugby program. Their collective efforts have not only attracted new talent but have also inspired existing female players to take on leadership roles within the club.
Driving Club Operations and Community Engagement
Beyond the pitch, Aberdeenshire RFC’s volunteer force plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of the club’s operations and its deep connection to the local community.
Alan Macleod, the club’s volunteer administrator, has been the backbone of the organization for over two decades. His meticulous attention to detail, unwavering commitment, and keen organizational skills have been instrumental in managing everything from player registrations and team selections to event planning and stakeholder communications.
“Aberdeenshire RFC is more than just a rugby club – it’s a tight-knit community that I’m proud to be a part of,” Alan shares. “Volunteering my time and expertise to ensure the club’s continued success is a responsibility I take great pride in.”
Complementing Alan’s efforts are a diverse array of volunteers who lend their unique talents to various aspects of the club’s operations. Fiona Buchanan, for instance, has been the driving force behind the club’s highly successful community outreach programs, forging partnerships with local schools and organizations to promote the sport and its core values.
Meanwhile, Graeme Milne and Liam Mackay have been the unsung heroes behind the club’s groundskeeping and facility maintenance, ensuring that the pitches and clubhouse remain in pristine condition for players and supporters alike.
Fostering a Welcoming and Inclusive Environment
Underpinning all of these volunteer efforts is a deep-rooted commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for players, supporters, and the wider community. Whether it’s Erin Sutherland organizing social events to bring the club together or Caitlin Macdonald spearheading diversity and inclusion initiatives, the volunteers at Aberdeenshire RFC have consistently demonstrated their dedication to making the club a place where everyone feels valued and respected.
“At the end of the day, Aberdeenshire RFC is more than just a rugby club – it’s a family,” reflects Fiona Robertson, who has been a steadfast volunteer for the past five years. “The volunteers who give their time and energy to this club are the heart and soul that keep it beating, and I’m truly honored to be a part of that.”
A Lasting Legacy of Service and Passion
As Aberdeenshire RFC looks towards the future, the contributions of its volunteer community will continue to be the driving force behind the club’s ongoing success. From nurturing the next generation of rugby stars to fostering a inclusive and welcoming environment, these unsung heroes have left an indelible mark on the club’s rich history.
“The volunteers at Aberdeenshire RFC are the backbone of our organization,” says club president David Milne. “Their unwavering dedication, boundless enthusiasm, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in shaping the club into the community-driven, high-performing institution it is today. We are truly grateful for their service and immensely proud to call them our own.”
So, the next time you see the familiar faces of our volunteer coaches, groundskeepers, event organizers, and community ambassadors, take a moment to appreciate the vital role they play in making Aberdeenshire RFC the special place it is. Their commitment and passion are the foundations upon which the club’s future will be built.