The club was delighted to be joined for the presentation by local MSP Christina McKelvie, MP Margaret Ferrier and Councilor John Ross. Glasgow Warriors’ players Adam Ashe and Grayson Hart also joined the celebrations along with senior club members, youth team sponsors, and of course the 250 youth players that enjoy rugby at Hamilton every week.
Alongside winning the overall Green Conference for combined points at all youth rugby age groups (from U13 up to U18) it was fantastic to see the Under 15 team clinch their league title too. Indeed the overall youth section put in such a dominant display that the overall conference was secured with a round of games to spare.
As a result of winning the Green Conference Hamilton successfully applied to be admitted to the Presidents Conference, the highest standard of youth club rugby in Scotland, meaning that along with their second fifteen the Laigh Bent club now have two parts of their club competing at the pinnacle of Scottish rugby.
The Presidents Conference features the heavyweights of the youth club structure and includes teams such as Ayr, Stirling County, and Boroughmuir. Attaining this level shows the progression made by the players, coaches, and team managers; helping to continue the youth section support for senior teams' success in years to come.
"This is a fantastic achievement by everyone involved with our phenomenal youth section. The dedication and commitment of our volunteer coaches and players over this and previous seasons is paying dividends. Playing in the Presidents Conference next season will bring new tests to everyone but it is these challenges that will ensure we continue to grow."The league season may be over however the U15s are still competing in their age grade cup competition while other teams continue to play friendly fixtures and train. The U18s final competitive game of the season sees the squad travel to the Ayrshire coast where they will play in the West Cup Final against Ayr, kicking off at 12:30
Youth Convenor David Vickers
The club always welcomes new players at all ages and of any ability where they can be assured of a fun and encouraging environment to develop their rugby skills. If you are interested in playing for the club you should contact Alan Falconer (Development Officer ) on 07999 676998