Dear Members,

As I begin my fourth and final year as President of Haddington RFC, I’m delighted to
welcome all our players, coaches, volunteers, supporters, parents and families back for
another exciting season at Haddington Rugby Club.

Last year was a big one for the club — plenty of highs, a few challenges, but above all, it was a year of real progress right across all sections of the club.

The standout moment was our First XV earning promotion to National 4 and this
achievement belongs to everyone at the club: the players, coaches, volunteers,
supporters and the wider Haddington community.

It’s a milestone we’ve worked towards for a long time, and now we have the chance to
test ourselves at a higher level. It will be demanding, but I know our squad will meet
the challenge with pride, discipline and determination.

Across the club, our players continue to represent Haddington with commitment and
togetherness. Results matter, but so does the environment we create — and that
remains one of our greatest strengths and assets.

A huge thank you to our coaches and team managers for the time, energy and care you
invest every week. Your work is the backbone of this club.

Our Minis and Haddington Rugby Academy continue to thrive, giving young players a
brilliant start in rugby and a clear pathway through the age groups. Thank you to all
involved, especially our Development Officer, Graham McInnes. Youth development is at
the heart of our plans and development strategy - young players are the future of
Haddington Rugby.

We’re also excited to see our women’s team continue to grow, supported by generous
funding from The Victoria Inn. I encourage all members to get behind our women’s
section this season.

To our volunteers, committee, parents, supporters and members — thank you. Whether
you’re putting out cones, washing strips, running events, working behind the bar or
offering “expert” touchline advice, you make this club what it is. Your commitment
keeps Haddington Rugby moving forward.

Our sponsors also deserve special recognition. Your support allows us to invest in
facilities, develop players and strengthen every part of the club. A particular thanks to
our main sponsor, Gordon Bathgate of McDougall McQueen Solicitors, for their
continued backing.

Looking ahead, there is plenty to be excited about. The First XV take on National 4, the
Seconds continue to develop senior players, the Haddington Rugby Academy and Minis

build the foundations of the future, and our women’s section grows stronger every
week. Together, we can continue building a club that is ambitious, welcoming and
rooted in the values that define Haddington Rugby: teamwork, respect, discipline,
commitment and community.

Memberships are now open through SPOND or via our website in the Shop section:
www.haddingtonrfc.co.uk

Players of all ages and abilities are welcome — please come along to Neilson Park and
give rugby a try.

• Mini Rugby (P1–P7): Sundays, 10.30am–12.00pm
• Haddington Rugby Academy (S1–S6): Training during term time, games on Saturdays
• First XV & Seconds: Training Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7pm; matches Saturdays
• Women’s rugby: Training on Wednesday at 6.30pm

Our clubhouse is available for private hire, and members can follow our social channels
for news, fixtures and events.

Rugby is ultimately about people — friendships, shared experiences and being part of
something bigger. I want Haddington Rugby Club to remain a place where everyone
feels welcome, valued and proud to belong.

So, let’s build on last year’s success. Let’s back our First XV in National 4, support all
our teams across all sections of the club, encourage our young players, champion our
women’s squad and continue making Haddington Rugby a club our whole community
can be proud of.

Here’s to a successful, safe and enjoyable 2026/27 season — good rugby, plenty of
laughs, strong friendships and, hopefully, plenty more wins on the way.

Yours in rugby,

Scott Brownlee

President, Haddington RFC
(m) 07917753602
(e) tals@msn.com