Watsonians’ stalwart and a talented prop forward

RUGBY played a huge part in the life of Iain Leslie, who, in turn, played a huge part in the life of his beloved club, Watsonians, rendering exceptional service in a variety of roles over several decades, writes Jack Davidson.

For many he was “Mr. Watsonian”, a totally committed enthusiast who initially played for the club with distinction as a redoubtable prop forward and, after hanging up his boots, went from pitch to committee room to dedicate himself to advancing the interests of the Myreside outfit.

A constantly encouraging and welcoming presence, he helped with coaching and team management, refereed lower XV games, ran the clubhouse bar for years, and served as vice-president and president.

At the time of his death, aged 59, he was still club secretary and a familiar face on match day at Myreside as the announcer, a role that occasionally allowed him to indulge his sense of humour with tongue-in-cheek, partisan commentary. He enjoyed mixing with other clubs’ officials over hospitality at home and away matches while “talking rugby”.

A solicitor by profession, he also served on the Discipline Panels of Scottish Rugby and the United Rugby Championship/guinness Pro Leagues, dealing recently with a case against a South African team’s player.

Affectionately known to many by his nickname of “Stav” or “Stavvy” – accorded him at George Watson’s through his resemblance to the Stavros character from the American TV series Kojak, he was a popular and gregarious character well-known throughout Scottish rugby.

On the first match-day after his death, all clubs in Watsonians’ National League held a minute’s applause in tribute before their matches, testament to the respect and regard in which he was held.

He was also a keen cricketer, playing about 200 matches for Watsonians, mostly in the lower XIS, but including 39 for the 1sts.

At school he was academically and musically gifted. He learned by ear to play piano and violin to a high standard, playing the latter for Edinburgh Schools’ Orchestra. He also excelled at languages, including Russian.