Youngster Ethan wins Scottish Rugby’s admiration

Ethan joined Gala Rugby four years ago when he moved with his family to be closer to the regional development centre at Borders College.

He identified that he would like to get involved in the club’s rugby development pathway. He then took on the role of lead coach for one of the minis teams, enabling 20 young boys and girls to continue to play the sport over the last three-and-a-half years.

Ethan further volunteered to help with after-school coaching of Gala Academy’s S3 group, which he has followed this year by being part of the coaching team as their group progress through U16 rugby.

A Scottish Rugby spokesperson said: “The commitment of someone so young to give so much back to the game has been commended by those who have nominated Ethan.”

They added:

“Ethan’s continued selflessness to youth rugby has prompted this award. His ability to jump in and do whatever it takes to grow rugby with young players and support the long-term viability of rugby in Galashiels has been admirable.”

Ethan has supported a programme which promotes the expansion of rugby to those who haven’t yet played the game.

His commitment has not stopped there, as Ethan is involved in Gala Rugby’s events committee, not only helping to organise youth awards dinner, but also significant events like ‘Marooned@Gala’, the largest event on the club’s calendar.

There was further success for the region, with Border Rugby Referees’ Andrew Edgar being named Community Referee of the Season.

He has refereed matches across the area for three decades.

Fellow ref Iain Heard said: “The fact the role he is undertaking each week is one where there is considerable pressure put on the body but also the mentality where the referee can be subjected to abuse says a huge amount about his commitment.

“His nomination really is down to his length of service and his ability to maintain his standards for so long.”