DRFC Provides A Solid Start For Talented North-east Rugby Players
As Six Nations fever is gripping the country and Scotland starting the Championship so well, we are proud to see several players who started their rugby journey with Deeside Rugby Football Club, taking to the rugby field over recent weeks at representative level.
Finlay Burgess, from Torphins, is part of the Scotland Under 20s Six Nations squad and came on as a substitute against England at Twickenham Stoop earlier this month. Finlay also played for Scotland Under 20’s in Italy in the Six Nations Summer Series in 2022. Leys Estate Group provided support to Finlay when he was offered a Stage 1 contract with the Scottish Rugby Academy at the age of 16 and we continue to keep a close eye on Finlay’s progress.
Another Deeside RFC player Ben Morriss came on as a substitute for Glasgow Warriors in February’s U18s Intercity derby against Edinburgh Rugby U18s on Sunday 5th February. Ben has now been invited to train with the Scotland Under 18 squad, which is a fantastic achievement.
Aila Ronald, also from Torphins, has been selected and played for The Thistles and has recently played in a Celtic league against national development teams from Ireland, Wales and Scotland. Aila has developed her skills over the years at Deeside RFC with her Dad Andy, who has also been heavily involved in supporting and coaching at the club.
An extra mention must also go to Andy who took part in last week’s 555-mile cycle from the Principality Stadium, Cardiff, to Murrayfield in support of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation!
Finally, another ex Deeside RFC player Max Wallace continues to build on his success at Edinburgh Accies, playing at fly-half. Max was presented with the club’s Young Player of the Year award for the 2021/2022 season and continues to play a key role in the squad this season.
The progress of Finlay, Ben, Aila and Max is testament to the quality and consistency of the coaching and support Deeside Rugby gives to players at all levels.
Leys Estate has supported the development of the club since its move to Woodend at Crathes in 2011 and is committed to continuing to support the further development of the club’s facilities, coaches and volunteering team to ensure others have the opportunity to follow in Finlay, Ben, Aila and Max’s footsteps.
We look forward to following their careers over the coming weeks and months.