Hundreds of players set for rugby festival at Dalziel Park
Dalziel Rugby Club is preparing to host the 33rd Annual Festival of Youth Rugby on Saturday, April 26 at Dalziel Park.
The festival will bring together players from across Lanarkshire and beyond, including Hamilton, Strathaven, Uddingston, Lenzie, and East Kilbride, as well as touring teams from Ulster, Sale, and Bowdon.
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The event is a tribute to the late founder, Alan Calder, who treated rugby as an inclusive and character-building sport.
Alan Calder (Image: Dalziel Rugby Club) Euan Duguid, spokesman for Dalziel Rugby Club, said: "We're proud to once again host this brilliant event, which continues to grow in scale and stature.
"This weekend's festival is about more than rugby – it's about camaraderie, community, and giving young players the chance to shine.
"We're delighted to welcome both returning and first-time touring teams, and we're especially pleased to see strong representation from our Lanarkshire neighbours.
"It reflects the strength of the local game and the enduring appeal of this event."
More than 900 players are expected to participate in the event.
With that in mind, the club has advised spectators to car share where possible due to limited parking.
No parking is permitted on Hagen Drive, and stewards will be present to direct traffic throughout the day.
Entry is free for children and coaches, while adult spectators are asked to contribute £3 on arrival to help with the festival's running costs.
A free programme will also be available.
The festival is expected to run from morning kick-off through to late afternoon, with food stalls and a club shop available.
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Euan said: "There's something special about watching the next generation take to the pitch with pride and purpose.
"The festival's heart lies in its original ethos – creating an enjoyable, inclusive day of rugby, win or lose, for every young person involved.
"Thanks as ever to the families, coaches, volunteers, and sponsors who help bring it all together.
"Saturday promises to be a cracking day out."
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