Aberdeenshire RFC Leads the Charge for Inclusive Rugby in the North East
Aberdeenshire RFC, the north-east’s premier rugby club, has been a beacon of inclusivity and community engagement for over three decades. Founded in 1993, the club has weathered the storms of changing times, emerging stronger and more resilient than ever before. As Aberdeenshire RFC celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, it is a testament to the unwavering dedication of its players, coaches, and volunteers who have tirelessly worked to grow the sport and foster a welcoming environment for all.
Grassroots Rugby Development: Nurturing the Next Generation
At the heart of Aberdeenshire RFC’s success lies its commitment to grassroots rugby development. The club’s youth program has been instrumental in introducing the sport to young people across the region, many of whom had never picked up a rugby ball before. Through structured training sessions, skills clinics, and competitive tournaments, Aberdeenshire RFC has empowered hundreds of local youngsters to discover their passion for the game.
“We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to experience the joys of rugby,” says club president, Emma Macleod. “Our youth program is not just about developing technical skills; it’s about building confidence, teamwork, and a love for the sport that will last a lifetime.”
The club’s efforts have not gone unnoticed, with Aberdeenshire RFC being recognized as the 2024 Club of the Year at the prestigious Aberdeen Sports Awards. This accolade is a testament to the club’s unwavering commitment to grassroots development and its ability to inspire the next generation of rugby enthusiasts.
Breaking Down Barriers: Inclusive Rugby for All
Aberdeenshire RFC’s commitment to inclusivity extends far beyond age and skill level. The club has pioneered efforts to create a welcoming and supportive environment for players of all backgrounds, including the LGBTQ+ community, women, and individuals with diverse abilities.
In 2018, the club established the Aberdeenshire Quines, an all-inclusive rugby team that has become a beacon of hope and pride for the north-east’s LGBTQ+ community. The Quines have not only broken down barriers but have also celebrated their achievements on the national stage, most recently capturing both the Jim Reily Memorial Cup and the Alan Reynolds Memorial Shield at the 2023 Caledonian Thebans Rugby Clinic in Edinburgh.
“Rugby has the power to unite people from all walks of life,” says club treasurer, Martin Andrew. “The Aberdeenshire Quines’ success is a testament to the incredible resilience and determination of our players, who have overcome societal challenges to excel on the field.”
Harnessing the Power of Community Engagement
Aberdeenshire RFC’s impact extends far beyond the rugby pitch, as the club has actively engaged with the local community through a wide range of initiatives. From hosting inclusive training sessions at the Woodside Sports Complex to organizing community outreach programs, the club has become a hub for sports and wellness in the region.
“We believe that rugby is not just a sport – it’s a way of life,” says club founder, Grant Skene. “By reaching out to the community, we’ve been able to break down the barriers that often prevent people from getting involved in rugby, whether it’s due to their sexual orientation, race, gender, or level of experience.”
The club’s commitment to community engagement has not gone unnoticed, with Aberdeenshire RFC being recognized as the Community Sports Project of the Year at the 2024 Aberdeen Sports Awards. This accolade is a testament to the club’s tireless efforts to make rugby accessible and inclusive for all.
Embracing Global Connections and Partnerships
Aberdeenshire RFC’s impact extends far beyond the local community, as the club has forged partnerships and connections with rugby organizations across the globe. From participating in the Hadrian Cup in Newcastle, England, to competing in the IGR Union Cup in Oslo, Norway, the club has proudly represented the north-east on the international stage.
“Our global connections have not only expanded our horizons but have also inspired us to push the boundaries of what’s possible in rugby,” says club captain, Liam Mackenzie. “By engaging with like-minded clubs and organizations, we’ve been able to share best practices, learn from one another, and ultimately, elevate the sport to new heights.”
The club’s international efforts have also led to the creation of the Aberdeenshire RFC Coaching Academy, a program that welcomes coaches from around the world to share their expertise and insights with the local community. This initiative has not only strengthened the club’s coaching capabilities but has also fostered a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Securing a Sustainable Future: Investing in Health and Wellness
As Aberdeenshire RFC looks towards the future, the club has placed a renewed emphasis on the health and wellness of its players and the broader community. Through partnerships with organizations like Sport Aberdeen, the club has been able to offer comprehensive fitness and nutrition programs, ensuring that its players are performing at their best both on and off the field.
“We believe that true success in rugby is not just measured by the number of trophies we win, but by the positive impact we have on the lives of our players and the community,” says club vice-president, Kirsty Findlay. “By investing in the health and wellness of our members, we’re not only creating better rugby players but also better citizens who can positively contribute to society.”
The club’s commitment to health and wellness has not gone unnoticed, with Aberdeenshire RFC being recognized as the Inspiration Award winner at the 2024 Aberdeen Sports Awards. This accolade is a testament to the club’s holistic approach to player development and its ability to inspire others to prioritize their physical and mental well-being.
A Vision for the Future: Continuing the Legacy of Aberdeenshire RFC
As Aberdeenshire RFC celebrates its 30th anniversary, the club remains steadfast in its commitment to growing the sport, fostering inclusivity, and making a lasting impact on the community. With a robust youth program, a thriving inclusive rugby team, and a deep-rooted connection to the north-east, the club is poised to continue its legacy as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring rugby players and enthusiasts alike.
“Aberdeenshire RFC is not just a rugby club – it’s a movement, a community, and a way of life,” says club president, Emma Macleod. “As we look to the future, we’re committed to building on the incredible foundation that has been laid before us, ensuring that the sport of rugby remains accessible, inclusive, and empowering for generations to come.”
With its unwavering dedication to grassroots development, inclusive initiatives, community engagement, and global partnerships, Aberdeenshire RFC stands as a shining example of how rugby can be a force for positive change. As the club celebrates its 30th anniversary, it is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a relentless commitment to the sport and the community it serves.