Rugby Club ISSUE 85 | Page 71

Oban Lorne Hamish Matheson has had a long association with Oban Lorne RFC and recently told Rugby Club Magazine, “I played mainly school rugby in the centre position and, when my son became attracted to the sport, I also became more closely involved with the club through his involvement.” “My son Fergus was a product of the club’s junior section having been brought through the excellent school of rugby at Oban High School and subsequently went through a modern apprenticeship with the SRU. “Fergus played scrum half and continued in his rugby career with Glasgow Accies, where he still plays today. He has moved from the area due to work commitment and is currently a PE Teacher at Boclair Academy in Milngavie on the outskirts of Glasgow. “I work in the building industry and have helped the club out with sponsorship through contacts I have made over the years. I wish everyone connected with the club the best of continued success.” working well. Both youth and senior teams have good numbers with over 60 at mini rugby, U16-U18 regional finals School links are good. We have also International connections with Magnus Bradbury, Abi Evans earning full caps and Eilidh Shearer at U18 level alongside with some representation at U15-16 level. We are now aiming for West 1 for the men’s 1st XV, national for ladies and of course stay on course growing the game locally especially minis up to U18’s.” to the promotion of sport for all in our area.” Challenges/Ambitions “We have three main challenges; Volunteers, Facilities and travel. I takes a lot of members to make sure we have enough coaches, committee members, parents and referees. We are always looking to develop our facilities and would like a 3G pitch and S and C facilities in the future.” Our ambition for the next five years is for our teams at all levels, male and female, to continue growing. We also want to continue the development of our ground and pitch with the possible purchase of park land to grow our Community profile.” Youth Youth rugby is the life blood of our club with the senior teams reaping the benefits of School of Rugby, promising for coaches and a good community vibe. We have close links with Oban High School, providing safe sessions for all joining up with men’s and ladies training.” Community “Our aim is to grow our role in the community in a prominently shinty and football oriented town; we are constantly trying to grow the interest in rugby and make it accessible for all. Our club house is used fairly well for functions and this is a good form of income and assists our finances. We work closely with all local bodies that are important and influential www.rugbyclubmag.com 71