Tag Archive for: Golden Eagles

George Clunie 1939-2024

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Club Statement to Members & Supporters

It is with sadness, that we announce the unexpected passing of George Clunie on January 10, 2024.

George was a huge supporter of rugby and especially of the 1st XV team where he rightly proclaimed himself “biggest supporter.” He rarely missed a match, either home or away, often being the sole supporter traveling with the team on the bus. He would often watch the 2nd XV team and hoped to see the players here flourish as the Men’s squad moved forward. He also held the self-proclaimed title of the oldest Match Fixture and Referee Secretary.

Ever keen and brutally honest, his “words of wisdom” were worth listening to. He was optimistic and in praise of the 1st XV team following recent performances against Ross High & Whitecraigs; even complementing on the their tackling (which was the first time in years!).
Perthshire Rugby extends heartfelt condolences to Jenny, the family, and those close to George during this difficult time.

For now, remember George for who he was: a resolute & committed friend, and unwavering supporter of Perthshire Rugby.

Here’s to George – another whisky in his honour.

The funeral will be held on Wednesday 31st January 11.30am, Perth Crematorium.
Buffet to follow at Huntingtower Hotel afterwards.
To help the family with the numbers for the buffet, can PRFC members please let a committee member or Ewan MacKessack-Leitch know.

Celebration of Perthshire Rugby in 2022-23

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Record attendance at Club Annual Awards Night!

The Salutation Hotel was packed on Friday 26th May when players, members, supporters, coaches and parents from across Perthshire Rugby came together to celebrate the end of the 2022-23 season and find out who had won in each of the award categories. With 132 tickets sold this was the largest dinner in memory!

Outgoing Club Captain Ewan “Macca” MacKessack-Leitch hosted the evening and after a brief welcome; look at the trophies won during the season by teams from across the Club; and a game of “Play Your Cards Right” run by the incoming Club Captain Rhys Darlington (despite some dodgy shuffling); the meal was served and everyone was ready for a night of pride, laughter, cheers and applause.

Kicking the awards off, Cameron Craig won the Colts’ Player of the Year. Despite injury, he was a constant at training and support for his teammates, rugby is more than just 80 minutes put on the pitch. Then in for the first time the U18 Girls’ Player of the Year was awarded, Anna Lily Suttie a deserving winner amongst strong competition from her teammates. Next up, Tom Colvin collected Young Player of the Year after a determined season commuting from Edinburgh and working on his skillset.

Then the Most Improved Player awards for the Women went to Katie Bromley who took up the sport this year, became a crucial component of the lineout and has excelled generally; and for the Men, Simon McGarry impressed the coaches with his progress and growth into a true leader on the pitch, after making the switch into the back row. Veteran Angus Macpherson got the nod for 2XV Player of the Year as a stalwart leader and continuing to put in performances belying his years.

The players cast their votes for the next award, Anna Davies, received the Women’s Players’ Player of the Year Award; recognising her drive to get the best of out her teammates around her. While James Mair topped the poll for Mens’ Players’ Player of the Year, after dogged and determined performances throughout the season.

The Coach of the Year Award was won by Chris Ayres, Head Coach of the U16 Boys, who has really driven his team forward over many years spanning Mini & Midi sections including winning the Saltire Energy Caledonia Shield this season.

Mini Team of the year was won by the ever improving and exciting U10s who always demonstrate Perthshire values. The Team of the Year went to U18 Girls in recognition of their victory in the National Shield Final at Murrayfield and the number of players who were selected for the U18 Scotland Squad.

The Women’s season review was then delivered by Co-Captains Heather McKenzie & Alex Ward; telling the story of how they surprised all expectation to reach the National Bowl Final. Head Coach Iona Coutts next presented the Women’s Player of the Year trophy to Alex Ward who has had a phenomenal season.

James Mair was then named 1XV Player for the Year, very well deserved for an unrelenting season where he took over as Captain by the end and led from the front in tackle and try count!

Alan Clark, in his final act as Head Coach, reviewed the past year and his record at Perthshire over 9 years: covering the good & the bad and also giving some advice for other coaches. As a thank you from his players, he was presented with a bottle of single malt and card & ball signed by numerous players past & present.

Finally, the last award of the night Club Person of the Year was awarded to Lynn Robertson. She was part of the Women’s squad that made it all the way to Murrayfield and has put in a huge shift with the EagleEye magazine – when deadlines were tight or edits needed she got them done.

As well as Alan Clark standing down, long time Team Manager Mark Coupar, is also leaving the Senior Section. His has been a long shift in various roles at Perthshire, in recognition of this, at the AGM the night before he was elected an Honorary Life Member of Perthshire RFC.

Thank you to all Perthshire players, coaches, parents, volunteers, supporters & members who have been with us this season; the night demonstrated what it is about Perthshire Rugby that makes it such a special club to be part of!

Full List of Award Winners:

Men’s Section
Colts’ Player of the Year: Cameron Craig
Young Player of the Year: Tom Colvin
Most Improved Player: Simon McGarry
2XV Player of the Year: Angus Macpherson
Players’ Player of the Year: James Mair
Player of the Year: James Mair

Women’s Section
U18 Girls’ Player of the Year: Anna Lily Suttie
Most Improved Player: Katie Bromley
Players’ Player of the Year: Anna Davies
Player of the Year: Alex Ward

Whole Club
Coach of the Year: Chris Ayres
Mini Team of the Year: U10s
Team of the Year: U18 Girls
Club Person of the Year: Lynn Robertson

Photographs by Rach Cameron.

Shortlist for Club Awards 2023 released!

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Get your tickets NOW for the Perthshire RFC End of Season Awards Dinner Friday 26th May.

The nominations are in for Awards Dinner! This night is set to be a celebration of all things Perthshire Rugby with: 14 awards presented – including for the first time U18 Girls’ Player of the Year!

Hosted by Club Captain, Ewan “Macca” MacKessack-Leitch as well the awards presentations and getting to share in the glories of teams from across Perthshire Rugby, you will be entertained by a review of the Men’s Season and a review the Women’s Season from the teams’ leadership.

Join your whole Club to mark the end of the 2022-23 season, celebrate the silverware won and achievements of the players, coaches and wider Club. Arrive from 7pm to be seated by 7:30pm at the at the Salutation Hotel, Perth.

Tickets at £40 per head, can be obtained via the Club webshop for tables which will seat 8. Alternatively, they can be bought in cash given to the Club Captain Ewan MacKessack-Leitch. Closing date for ticket sales is Monday 15th May.

Players from the U18s can claim a £10 discount off their ticket. Details of how to buy these will come from your Team Manager as they are NOT available online.

The menu will be: Lentil soup (v); Steak Pie with seasonal vegetables and potatoes; Sticky Toffee Pudding with pouring cream. To advise of preferred table seating and dietary requirements (vegetarian/vegan alternative available) please write in the “Order Notes.” All other queries please e-mail: clubcaptain@perthshire-rfc.co.uk

The full list of awards & nominations:

Senior Men’s
Colts’ Player of the Year:
Olly Atkin, Cameron Craig, Oliver Matthews
Young Player of the Year:
Tom Colvin, Calum MacDonald, Tom Whamond
Most Improved Player:
Tom Colvin, Simon McGarry, Andrew Sanderson
2XV Player of the Year:
Ryan Beaton, Angus Macpherson, Rab Pittendreigh
Players’ Player of the Year:
Calum Chalmers, Rhys Darlington, James Mair
1XV Player of the Year:
James Mair, Simon McGarry, Dan Rae

Seniors Women’s
U18 Girls’ Player of the Year:
Lily Beaton, Ellie-Jo Simpson, Anna Lily Suttie
Most Improved Player:
Katie Bromley, Anna Davies, Claire Rae
Players’ Player of the Year:
Anna Davies, Heather McKenzie, Alex Ward
Player of the Year:
Heather McKenzie, Suzanne Rennie, Alex Ward

Whole Club
Coach of the Year:
Chris Ayres, Graham Binnie, Iona Coutts
Mini Team of the Year:
U8, U10, U11
Team of the Year:
U16 Boys, U18 Girls, Colts
Club Person of the Year:
To be announced on the night

Well done to all those nominated. Be there on the 26th May to see who has won!

Golden Oldies Need You!

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Over 35s Training Returns in preparation for the Veteran 10s tournament at the Perth Beer Festival.

It’s back! Time to dust off the boots and blow out the cobwebs. Starting Friday 31st March, Veterans Rugby training makes it’s return to the North Inch and the Golden Eagles need you to help them in their quest for glory!

Training will start at 7pm and will involve some fitness, skills and games. These fun sessions are open to all ages & abilities from the Perthshire Rugby community, but only those over-35 can play in the 10s tournament.

Any questions please contact Jeremy Wares, Campbell Watson or Smudge.

Invitation to the Perthshire Christmas Party

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26th November 6:30pm for 7pm at the Station Hotel, Perth.

All members and supporters are invited to join the Perthshire Rugby Christmas Party on 26th November. A 3 course meal, DJ, dancefloor, raffle and maybe a game or two – come and join the fun!

Tickets at £40 per head, can be obtained via the Club webshop; depending on numbers, tables will seat 8-10 guests. Alternatively, they can be bought in cash given to the Club Captain Ewan MacKessack-Leitch. Closing date for ticket sales is Sunday 13th November. The dress code is formal black tie attire.

The menu for the evening is below and you will be asked to pre-order your choices:

Starter
• Teriyaki-cured salmon winter slaw served with sourdough crispbread.
• Veggie and cheese arancini served with arrabbiata sauce.
• Spiced pumpkin soup served with rustic bread.

Main
• Pork, sage and chestnut stuffed ballotine of turkey served with carrot puree.
• Pan seared cod served with pancetta and broad beans risotto with pea velouté.
• Vegan Wellington served with Brussels sprouts and Parisienne potatoes cranberry juice.

Dessert
• Christmas pudding with brandy sauce.
• Quenelle of mousse served with salted caramel and a crumble of nut.
• Vegan chocolate tart with raspberry sorbet.

That Saturday the 1XV play Murrayfield Wanderers on the North Inch, why not make a day of it? Watch the matches, join the fun in the Bowling Club afterwards and then celebrate Christmas in style at the Station Hotel.

Awards Night Successes Across Perthshire Rugby

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Great night where 15 awards were presented and all PRFC were winners!

The Salutation Hotel was packed on Friday 27th May when players, members, supporters, coaches and parents from across Perthshire Rugby came together to celebrate the end of the 2021-22 season and find out who had won in each of the award categories.

Club Captain Ewan “Macca” MacKessack-Leitch hosted the evening and after a brief welcome, game of Heads & Tails and toast to the Club the meal was served and everyone was ready for a night of pride, laughter, cheers, singing and lots of applause.

Kicking the awards off, Ben Cameron won the Colts’ Player of the Year, an exciting player the whole year he made an impact too at the end of the season playing for the 2XV. Next up Aidan Watson collected Young Player of the Year after a season of consistently good performances in the backline. Then the Most Improved Player awards for the Men went to Rhys Darlington, in the year he has broken through from the 2XV into the 1XV, and for the Women, Lynn Robertson continued to impress the coaches with her progress picking this award up for the second time.

For 2XV Player of the Year, Arran Sheach got the nod gaining this award for stepping up to the role of Captain in the latter stages of the league and helping inspire the team to a winning streak at the end. The players cast their votes for the next award, Iona Coutts, receiving the Women’s Players’ Player of the Year Award; this bodes well for her taking on the role as Head Coach next season. In what was a very close vote, Angus Walker topped the poll for Men’s Players’ Player of the Year.

The Coach of the Year Award was new this season. Inaugurated to recognise excellence amongst coaches within the Club, this was won by Graham Binnie for his roles both in the U16 Girls, establishing the team and winning silverware at Murrayfield, and with the U14 Boys.

After the Women’s Season Review, Campbell Watson was presented with a Special Recognition Award from the Club to thank him for all the work he has done to re-establish the Women’s team and build them up to competitive fixtures again, in addition to all the coaching he has provided over many years in the Midi and now Senior teams.

With the return to competitive season some teams in Perthshire have stood out. Mini Team of the year was won by the ever improving and exciting P6s who always demonstrate Perthshire values. The Team of the Year went to U15 Boys who have grown up and developed as players & a team to become runners-up in the Caledonia Youth Cup Final.

Now it was time for the Player of the Year awards. In the Women’s Section this went to Heather McKenzie as she has put her all into the matches played and taken on board what the coaches have said to get better & better. In the 1XV Angus Walker, “made it a double,” adding Player of the Year to the Players’ Player he won earlier. The coaches were in agreement, Angus’ dedication and hard work at training, S&C, in the gym and on matchdays made him stand out; performances have only got better and opposition now hate to play against him.

Next in a surprise, the U16 Girls were presented with a Special Recognition Award from the Club to commend them for their performance as part of the Tayside Girls team that contested 2 finals and winning the U16 Girl’s National Shield. Coach Graham Binnie, collecting on behalf of the team, cannot wait to present the players with the trophy as he was so proud of the efforts they had made and success gained this year.

Finally the last award of the night Club Person of the Year, in a twist he didn’t see coming, was awarded to Ewan “MacKer” MacKessack-Leitch. This was the popular choice all in the room standing to applaud in recognition of the COVID-19 protocols, gumshields for senior players, match reports, leadership on & off the pitch and showing the best of Perthshire values: Sportsmanship, Pride, Respect and Inclusion.

The night ended on a high with new appointed Director of Rugby Graham “Smudge” Smith introduced to the Club and having a few minutes to described his excitement and positive vision for a growing and ever successful Perthshire Rugby Club.

That was it! What a night, congratulations to all the nominees and winners. Thank you to all Perthshire players, coaches, parents, volunteers, supporters & members who have been with us this season; we restarted and played rugby again with smiles on our faces and pride in our hearts! Onwards to better things in a few months’ time when preseason 2022-23 begins.

 

Full List of Award Winners:

Senior Section
Colts’ Player of the Year: Ben Cameron
Young Player of the Year: Aidan Watson
Most Improved Player: Rhys Darlington
2XV Player of the Year: Arran Sheach
Players’ Player of the Year: Angus Walker
Player of the Year: Angus Walker

Women’s Section
Most Improved Player: Lynn Robertson
Players’ Player of the Year: Iona Coutts
Player of the Year: Heather McKenzie

Whole Club
Special Recognition Awards: Campbell Watson;   U16 Girls.
Coach of the Year: Graham Binnie
Mini Team of the Year: P6
Team of the Year: U15 Boys
Club Person of the Year: Ewan MacKessack-Leitch

Shortlist for Club Awards 2022 released!

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Get your tickets NOW for the Perthshire RFC End of Season Awards Dinner on Friday 27th May.

The nominations are in for Awards Dinner! This night is set to be a celebration of all things Perthshire Rugby with: 13 awards presented – including the new Coach of the Year award.

Hosted by Club Captain, Ewan “Macca” MacKessack-Leitch, as well the awards presentations, games and raffle, you will be entertained by a review of the Men’s Season by Head Coach Alan Clark while Coach Campbell Watson and Captain Lynne Stewart review the Women’s Season. Perthshire Rugby will also welcome our new Director of Rugby Graham “Smudge” Smith who will speak about his excitement and vision for Perthshire in the years to come.

Join your whole Club to mark the end of the 2021-22 season and celebrate our return to training & playing rugby after months laid off by COVID-19. Arrive from 7pm to be seated by 7:30pm at the at the Salutation Hotel, Perth.

Tickets at £40 per head, can be obtained via the Club webshop (individual or a table of 8). Alternatively, they can be bought in cash given to the Club Captain Ewan MacKessack-Leitch. Closing date for ticket sales is 16th May.

Concessions and Colts can claim a £10 discount off their ticket. As a thank you for all your hard work over the season Club coaches will also get this discount. Please ask your Section Head for the discount code for the webshop.

The menu will be: Lentil soup (v); Roast sirloin of Scottish beef, red wine gravy with vegetables and potatoes; Sticky toffee pudding; Tea or coffee with dark chocolate mints. To advise of preferred table seating and dietary requirements (vegetarian/vegan alternative available) please write in the “Order Notes.” All other queries please e-mail: clubcaptain@perthshire-rfc.co.uk

The full list of awards & nominations for this year are:

Senior Men’s
Colts’ Player of the Year:
Ben Cameron, Callum MacGugan, Ruaridh Leck
Young Player of the Year:
Tom Colvin, Ross Goodison, Aidan Watson
Most Improved Player:
Rhys Darlington, Ewan MacKessack-Leitch, Arran Sheach
2XV Player of the Year:
Rabson Chipakupaku, Kieran Maclean, Arran Sheach
Players’ Player of the Year:
Calum Chalmers, Kieran Ramsay, Angus Walker
1XV Player of the Year:
Calum Chalmers, Angus Walker, Aidan Watson

Seniors Women’s
Most Improved Player:
Alison Kerr, Bev McNab, Lynn Robertson
Players’ Player of the Year:
Iona Coutts, Lynn Robertson, Lynne Stewart
Player of the Year:
Heather McKenzie, Suzanne Rennie, Lynne Stewart

Whole Club
Coach of the Year:
Chris Ayres, Graham Binnie, Stuart Ferrier
Mini Team of the Year:
P4, P6, P7
Team of the Year:
U15 Boys, U16 Girls, Colts
Club Person of the Year:
To be announced on the night

Well done to all those nominated. Be there on the 27th May to see who has won!

Veterans Call to Arms!

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Over 35s Training Returns

It’s back! Time to dust off the boots and blow out the cobwebs. Starting this Friday 11th March, Veterans Rugby training makes it’s long-awaited return to the North Inch.

Training will start at 7pm and will involve some fitness, skills, games and visits from guest coaches. The Club have been invited to 3 tournaments in the coming months so there are trophies to be won!

If you’re over 35, book your place using the Sports-Train App. If you’ve forgotten or lost your login, or already have an account but need added to the Veterans, please contact Macker who can sort it for you. If you’re new, then sign up on the Sports-Train App, the Club code is pert2438a.

Any questions please direct them to Jeremy Wares or contact Macca.

Invitation to the Perthshire Christmas Party

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11th December 6:30pm for 7pm at the Station Hotel, Perth.

All members and supporters are invited to join the Perthshire Rugby Christmas Party on 11th December. A 3 course meal, DJ, dancefloor, raffle and maybe a game or two – come and join the fun!

Tickets at £38 per head, can be obtained via the Club webshop (individual or a table of 8). Alternatively, they can be bought in cash given to the Club Captain Ewan MacKessack-Leitch. Closing date for ticket sales is Thursday 2nd December. The dress code is formal black tie attire.

The menu for the evening is below and you will be asked to pre-order your choices (please advise of any dietary requirements):

Starter
• Ham hock pickled carrots and wholegrain mustard terrine
• Salt cod fritters served with pil-pil sauce
• Emmental and caramelized onion quiche
Main
• Duck leg confit served with fondant potatoes, sweet pot puree and red berries jam
• Smoked salmon and sea food risotto
• Beetroot and goat cheese tortellini served with green pea velouté
Dessert
• Ruby chocolate fondant served with vanilla ice cream
• Spiced apple tart served with maple walnut ice cream
• Blackberry and yoghurt panna cotta served with chocolate mouse

That Saturday there are 2 homes fixtures for the Seniors the 1XV v Berwick and the 2XV v Montrose, why not make a day of it? Watch the matches, join the fun in the Bowling Club afterwards and then celebrate Christmas in style at the Station Hotel.

The Station Hotel are offering a special rates for rooms on a bed & breakfast basis for us that night:
 • Single room £60 per room per night
 • Double/twin room £75 per room per night
 • Book by e-mail events@perthstationhotel.co.uk quoting HLAC-071021.
Station Hotel accommodation is closed for 3 months so rooms cannot be booked.

Veterans Fitness Touch – The Glorious Comeback!

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Over 35s Fitness Touch Returns

It’s back! Time to dust off the boots and blow out the cobwebs. Starting this Friday 21st May, Veterans’ Fitness Touch Rugby makes it’s long-awaited return to the North Inch.

Under the most recent COVID-19 rules up to 50 players can now join in every Friday night 6:30-7:30pm.

If you’re over 35, book your place using the Sports-Train App. If you’ve forgotten or lost your login, or already have an account but need added to the Veterans, please contact Macker who can sort it for you. If you’re new, then sign up on the Sports-Train App, the Club code is pert2438a.

Any questions please direct them to Jeremy Wares or Sam Mountain.