Tribute to Past President and Former Club Captain John Carswell
Perthshire Rugby Club was deeply saddened to learn of the death of their former President and club captain, John Carswell, on Saturday. John led Perthshire through what could arguably be described as the most successful period in their history when they ran 5 senior teams and were amongst the top 15 clubs in Scotland.
John was educated at Strathallan where he developed his love for rugby and thereafter studied accountancy in Glasgow. While there he played 2 seasons for Glasgow University and 2 for West of Scotland. After qualifying, he returned to Perthshire at the start of season 1966/67 along with his brother David where his outstanding talent and leadership skills came to the fore and he soon found himself as a mainstay in the team. John played mainly on the wing to begin with but his skill and versatility saw him play in every position in the backs apart from scrum half. His immense skill soon caught the eye of the district selectors and he played several games for the North & Midlands mixing with Scottish internationalists as well as British Lions players. Playing for your District was a great honour and was just one step away from international selection and John was selected to play for the N&M against the 1969 South African team. The match took place on the 2nd December in Aberdeen and was an unforgettable occasion for him. There were wide spread anti apartheid protests and the match was stopped three times while police removed protestors from the pitch. Despite all the upheaval, the tourists won by 37 – 3 but John scored his team’s only try.
At Perthshire John’s team mates remembered him fondly for his dedication, commitment and leadership and he won their unwavering loyalty. His kicking from hand was legendary and he frequently turned desperate defence into attack by punting the ball from his own line to the opposition 22.
As well as President and captain, John also served as the club Auditor, unofficial 1st XV coach and mini rugby coach. It is people such as John Carswell who are the beating heart of our rugby club and everyone connected with Perthshire values the immense contribution he has made to lay the foundation for us all to move forward and display all the values he held so dear.
The club extends it’s condolences to all John’s family.
Bob Lindsay, Club Secretary
