With excitement building ahead of the RBS 6 Nations Championship, which gets underway this afternoon, rugby fever is sweeping across the country as Scotland prepare to jostle for supremacy. However, Scotland’s rugby heritage goes far deeper than the international stars we see don the famous blue jersey.
Across the country thousands spend their spare time on muddy fields, or synthetic surfaces, indulging in their love for the sport. Whether playing or supporting from the sidelines, it’s this grassroots level that brings some of the biggest social and health benefits to local communities throughout Scotland.
With obesity rates a growing concern for health professionals, increasing physical activity and participation in sport is a public health priority for NHS Scotland. One look at the physical condition of the top players will tell you that rugby is a great form of exercise, offering regular cardio-vascular training, improvements to flexibility as well as building speed and endurance – physical attributes too many of us are in short supply of.
However, not only does the game at grassroots level assist with our general well-being, local clubs also act as a great social hub. Many argue that today’s younger generation are too quick to turn down a game down the park in favour of less active pursuits. Rugby, though, is not only great fun, but also offers the opportunity to increase confidence levels and is the ultimate-character building sport. It’s also a great way to meet new people where lifelong friendships are formed and fostered.
According to the SRU’s annual report for 2014/15, more money than ever was invested in grassroots rugby last season, showing it is at the heart of the SRU’s strategy for the sport.
Investing in facilities, academies and coaching as well as working to increase participation levels is undoubtedly the key to a sustainable future for the sport in Scotland.
With Scotland reaching the World Cup quarter-finals before the controversial defeat to Australia, there is reason to be optimistic that Scottish rugby is heading in the right direction.
With Royal Bank of Scotland RugbyForce weekend set to launch in August, the opportunity to entice more people, young or old, into the rugby family couldn’t be better.
Over 140 clubs up and down the country took part last year with many rewarded through an influx of new players, supporters, volunteers and sponsors for their endeavours.
Former international and Scotland’s record appearance holder with 109 caps, Chris Paterson, who has heavily been involved in the initiative in the past, said: “It’s a brilliant way to kick-start the season for all the clubs and communities across Scotland.
“It’s a really great initiative, from a club having a barbecue to a fun day, a match, or even a day of DIY.
“Whatever that club wants and thinks it needs, they’ll get some financial support and help with the planning and preparation.”
Registrations for this year’s Royal Bank of Scotland RugbyForce weekend will open in March, with the weekend itself again held in August. To find out more information, and keep up to date with both RugbyForce and the RBS 6 Nations visit RBS Scottish Rugby on Facebook.