Sport

Rugby Club is thriving on their labours

IF Scottish rugby requires any evidence of the benefits of nurturing local talent rather than wasting money on expensive foreign imports, they only need to look at the recent success of Helensburgh, whose players and officials have just secured the RBS Club of the Month award.

The Ardencaple-based club currently compete in Division 2 of the West Regional League, but it is clear that they have no intention of stagnating amid the grassroots.

Instead, they are thriving on the labours of their development officer, Sean McNee, and active schools co-ordinator, Martin Caldwell, while Bill MacDonald, their recently appointed coach, is exactly the sort of down-to-earth stalwart whose enthusiasm helps preach to the unconverted.

These are heady times for Helensburgh, who are preparing for the arrival of a film crew at their facilities this week, along with a keenly anticipated cup tie against Strathendrick on Saturday, which should confirm the qualities of their young squad, in addition to highlighting how they have transformed their structure to promote the sport in their community.

Source: The Herald || Visit Helensburgh Rugby Club