Youth and enthusiasm key to Mid Argyll rugby future
BROCHAN’S enthusiasm is fantastic to witness – and it is infectious.
From the sideline this coaching veteran’s love of the sport is clear – through every play of the ball.
Brochan, also known (very occasionally) as Duncan Aitken, coaches Mid Argyll’s young rugby players, and he is very optimistic about the future of the Mid Argyll Rugby Club, despite the fact that the region has had no senior team for the past five seasons.
‘We have a lot of young players coming up,’ he told the Advertiser. ‘It’s been a good year for the team and the parents have been more helpful than ever. The team is also getting better as the games go on, and it’s good to see that the things we are teaching them are sinking in.’
Discipline
Brochan, a former player and a coach for 30 years, is in no doubt that the sport provides discipline and teaches respect while encouraging physical activity. ‘And there is a place for everyone, boys and girls and anyone big or small,’ he added.
From the mini rugby (P4-7) which usually has around 20 players, to the high school group with 30 or more players, the talent shines.
Along with qualified coaches Padear Deviney, Lee Buckley and Gavin Allan, Argyll and Bute rugby development officer Allan Wright offers support as Mid Argyll Rugby Club rebuilds itself.
Allan said: ‘The main aim for the club is to get the players games. Currently the mini rugby team is taking part in Dalriada festival, where they are playing teams like Oban, Mull, Taynuilt Vikings and Kintyre – but we would like more games for both teams.’
The teams are having a great season but the club is facing a major hurdle in that there is no proper rugby pitch. As work goes on to find a suitable home, efforts are also underway to raise fund for a club minibus.
But as long as the love of rugby burns in players, coaches and volunteers, the future of the sport in Mid Argyll appears bright.
If you would like to become involved in helping the club to progress, a meeting will be held on June 14. To find out more, contact Allan Wright by email at allan.wright@argyll-bute.gov.uk or call 07867 425973.