03-05-2025
More than 900 youth rugby players at Dalziel Park festival
Dalziel Rugby Club hosted their 33rd annual Festival of Youth Rugby at Dalziel Park on Saturday, April 26.
The event is a tribute to the late Alan Calder, who started the tournament in 1991.
Quickly becoming a key event on the youth rugby calendar, the event hosted players from across the UK.
These included teams from Hamilton, Strathaven, Uddingston and East Kilbride, as well as travelling sides from Ulster, Sale, and Bowdon.
Read more: Fostering agency celebrates major anniversary milestone
Teams competed in various age groups, with Dalziel winning in the U14 boys' and girls' categories.
John Mathieson, club president, said: "To see Dalziel Park packed with young talent, proud families, and passionate volunteers is a true reflection of what our club stands for.
"This is our 101st year as a club – and to mark that with our 33rd festival is something really special.
"The legacy of Alan Calder continues to inspire and unite people from near and far."
Millburn Construction, the main sponsor for this year, was thanked by the organisers, along with other sponsors and volunteers.
Read more: Special screening of Scottish football documentary to be held in Glasgow
Graham Calder, festival coordinator and Alan's son, said: "We simply couldn't do this without our sponsors, and I want to give particular thanks to Millburn Construction for their outstanding support.
"Behind the scenes, it's the effort of dozens of individuals – giving up their time, energy, and resources – that keeps this festival growing from strength to strength.
"My dad believed in creating opportunities for every child, regardless of ability, to fall in love with rugby.
"That spirit lives on here."
