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Ellon club set for RugbyForce community day


By Kyle Ritchie

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Ellon Rugby Club is in final preparations for its RBS RugbyForce community day.

It was one of two teams in Scotland to be awarded Hero status in the programme, which means it will receive £1000 of funding and the chance to meet international players Jamie Bhatti, Emma Wassell and Sarah Bonar.

This will take place during the event on Saturday at The Meadows from 9am-3pm.

It will include come and try events, touch games, a variety of stalls and attractions and work will be carried out to get the facilities ready for the new season.

Ellon Rugby Club will carry out work on its facilities during the community day to get them ready for the new season.
Ellon Rugby Club will carry out work on its facilities during the community day to get them ready for the new season.

Organiser Julie Coutts said: "We were picked as one of only two clubs in Scotland to be awarded as a Hero club which means we will be visited by Scotland internationals.

"The comperes for the RBS RugbyForce day are Jim Hamilton and Caroline Blair.

"The players will hopefully join in some games throughout the day with the children, there will be a question and answer session too.

"We also have a number of jobs that need to be done to get the club ready for the season ahead.

"It will be a big family fun day and everyone is welcome to come along. There will be inflatables, hot food, home bakes, plus fun games too."

The Aberdeenshire club came out on top against competition from across the nation, which saw more than 100 entries submitted to the judges.

The Royal Bank of Scotland RugbyForce Weekend is a milestone moment in the grassroots calendar when rugby clubs welcome the local community through their doors and host a range of events, such as fun-filled taster training sessions for potential new players or volunteer DIY days to get the club ready for the new season.

RugbyForce is a nationwide programme launched by Royal Bank of Scotland in association with Scottish Rugby.

Since launch, more than half a million pounds has been distributed directly benefiting 75 per cent of amateur rugby clubs in Scotland.

Against the backdrop of rising inflation, this year’s funding will contribute vital financial support, helping amateur clubs across Scotland to improve facilities, attract new members and develop sustainable futures.

In 2021, Royal Bank RugbyForce expanded to offer a separate funding and mentoring programme, encouraging grassroots heroes aged 18-35 to apply to become Young Ambassadors in a drive to help more young people into amateur club boardrooms.

Each winning candidate receives specialist training and close mentoring to develop the skills needed for effective club management including seminars and events led by Scotland international players.


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