A Club Steeped in Community, Excellence, and Inclusive Rugby
Aberdeenshire RFC has an illustrious history that spans over three decades, marked by a steadfast commitment to developing the sport, nurturing local talent, and fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment for players of all backgrounds. As the club celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, it reflects on a remarkable journey filled with triumphs, milestones, and a unwavering dedication to the game of rugby.
Honoring 30 Years of the Aberdeenshire Quines
The Aberdeenshire Quines, the club’s women’s team, are the beating heart of this rugby community, having celebrated their 30th year in existence in 2023. This remarkable milestone is a testament to the resilience, passion, and unwavering spirit of the players, coaches, and volunteers who have been the driving force behind the team’s success.
Over the past three decades, the Quines have not only developed into a formidable force on the pitch, but have also played a pivotal role in inspiring young girls and women to take up the sport, breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes along the way. Their achievements were recognized at the prestigious Aberdeen Sports Awards in 2024, where they were awarded the prestigious Club of the Year accolade, a true reflection of their impact on the local sporting landscape.
Cultivating a Culture of Inclusivity and Opportunity
Aberdeenshire RFC’s commitment to inclusivity extends far beyond the women’s team, as evidenced by the club’s unwavering support for the Aberdeen Taexali rugby team. This all-inclusive rugby club, which represents the most northern of the International Gay Rugby (IGR) clubs, has found a welcoming home within the Aberdeenshire RFC community.
In 2024, the Aberdeen Taexali team made headlines when they claimed victory in both the Jim Reilly Memorial Cup and the Alan Reynolds Memorial Shield at the Caledonian Thebans Rugby Clinic in Edinburgh. This impressive feat not only showcased the team’s incredible skills and determination, but also highlighted the positive impact that Aberdeenshire RFC’s inclusive approach has had on the broader rugby community.
“Taexali’s annual trip to the capital has been a highlight of our calendar since we first started attending in 2019,” said club founder Grant Skene. “Each year, we’ve watched our players—many of them complete novices or competing for the first time—fully commit to the training and games, leaving with improved skills and confidence.”
The success of the Taexali team is a testament to the nurturing environment and opportunities provided by Aberdeenshire RFC, which has consistently demonstrated its commitment to breaking down barriers and creating a truly inclusive rugby community.
Investing in the Next Generation of Rugby Stars
Aberdeenshire RFC’s dedication to the sport extends beyond the senior teams, as the club has placed a significant emphasis on youth development. Through its active partnership with the Active Schools initiative, the club has been able to reach young people across the region, introducing them to the joys of rugby and providing them with opportunities to develop their skills.
“The Active Schools Team deliver sportscotland’s national Active Schools initiative in Aberdeen,” explains a spokesperson for the club. “Active Schools provides free extra curricular sport and physical activity opportunities to encourage children and young people to participate in. The team works with all primary, secondary and additional support needs schools in the city, with an army of volunteers at the heart of the programme.”
This collaborative approach has not only increased participation in rugby among local youth, but has also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie that extends beyond the playing field. Many of the young players who have come through the Aberdeenshire RFC system have gone on to represent the club’s senior teams, further cementing the club’s reputation as a hub for developing rugby talent.
Championing Health, Wellness, and Community Engagement
Aberdeenshire RFC’s commitment to the local community extends far beyond the rugby pitch, as the club has been actively involved in a range of initiatives aimed at promoting health, wellness, and overall well-being. Through partnerships with organizations like Sport Aberdeen and the Aberdeen Sports Village, the club has been able to offer its members access to state-of-the-art facilities and expert coaching, ensuring that players of all ages and abilities can reach their full potential.
“At Aberdeenshire RFC, we believe that rugby is not just a sport, but a way of life,” said the club’s head coach, Sarah Mackenzie. “That’s why we’ve made it a priority to support the overall well-being of our players, both on and off the pitch. By partnering with local organizations, we’re able to provide our members with access to the resources and support they need to thrive, both as athletes and as individuals.”
The club’s community outreach efforts have also been recognized at the Aberdeen Sports Awards, where Aberdeenshire RFC was honored with the Community Sports Project of the Year award in 2024. This award-winning initiative, which focused on promoting physical activity and mental health among the city’s most vulnerable populations, is just one example of the club’s commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those beyond its immediate membership.
A Global Rugby Presence and Aspirations
As Aberdeenshire RFC looks towards the future, the club’s ambitions extend far beyond the borders of the Granite City. The club has already made a name for itself on the international stage, with its players and coaches regularly participating in prestigious tournaments and clinics around the world.
In 2025, the club is set to compete in the Hadrian Cup in Newcastle, England, as well as the IGR Union Cup in Oslo, Norway. These events will not only provide Aberdeenshire RFC’s players with the opportunity to showcase their skills on a global stage, but will also serve as a platform for the club to share its unique approach to inclusive rugby with the international community.
“Our club has always been about more than just winning matches,” said Aberdeenshire RFC’s president, David Anderson. “We’re driven by a desire to grow the sport, to break down barriers, and to inspire people of all backgrounds to get involved in rugby. As we look to the future, we’re excited to take our message to the world and to continue
pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this incredible sport.”
With a rich history, a thriving community, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Aberdeenshire RFC stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when a rugby club embraces its role as a catalyst for positive change. As the club celebrates its 30th anniversary, the future
looks brighter than ever, with the promise of continued success, growth, and a lasting impact on the sport and the people it serves.
To learn more about Aberdeenshire RFC and its programs, visit https://www.aberdeenshirerfc.org.uk/.