Russell and Horne use power of big brother
TWO of Scotland’s up-and-coming talents have perfect role models close to home as they prepare to take the next step on their sporting journey.
Nineteen-year-olds Archie Russell and George Horne will meet up with their Scotland Under-20 team-mates tomorrow for the latest training camp as preparations for the age-grade RBS Six Nations in February and March step up a notch.
Both are aiming to follow in the footsteps of their respective older brothers, current Scotland caps Finn and Peter.
Archie, a centre, plays for Stirling County and sprung to prominence in 2013 when he appeared for Scotland Under-18s and impressed for his club in the British & Irish Cup.
Last season he would have been involved with the Under-20s had he not picked up a string of frustrating injuries — a setback which has made him even more determined to make his mark this time around.
‘I am looking forward to this camp and I think there is some great talent in the Under-20s,’ said the Strathclyde University student.
‘It was annoying last year not to play any games, a broken hand coming at just the wrong time, but I think the regular action with County in the BT Premiership this season has helped my game come on.’
As well as Archie and Finn, eldest brother Harry also plays rugby, for Falkirk.
Having earned 10 Scotland Under-20 caps himself back in 2012 before going on to become first-choice stand-off for Glasgow Warriors and Scotland, Finn is the perfect person for Archie to talk to about what lies ahead.
‘I am pleased to see how well Finn has done, but he just tries to let me get on with my own game and is there for advice if I ever need it,’ added Archie.
Meanwhile, a move to Glasgow Hawks this season has helped stand-off George Horne spend even more time with Pete assessing his game.
Growing up in Cupar, George and Pete, 25, could more often than not be found with a rugby ball in their hands at Howe of Fife’s Duffus Park.
And now Glasgow Warriors’ and Scotland stand-off/centre Peter is a big help to his younger brother.
‘I commute to Glasgow from Edinburgh, where I am studying, to train with Hawks and often I will stay over with Pete,’ George said. ‘That gives us time to look at highlights from my most recent match and we go over the things that I can improve on.
‘I really aspire to follow him into the pro ranks, but I know there is a lot of hard work ahead of me.’