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Daily Record
02-05-2025
- Sport
- Daily Record
Dalziel Rugby Club marks 33rd annual Festival of Youth Rugby
Over 900 young players descended on Dalziel Park, hailing from across the UK – from local teams like Hamilton, Strathaven, Uddingston and East Kilbride to travelling sides from Ulster, Sale, and Bowdon. Dalziel Rugby Club marked their 33rd annual Festival of Youth Rugby, a lasting tribute to the late Alan Calder, who founded the tournament in 1991. Over 900 young players descended on Dalziel Park, hailing from across the UK – from local teams like Hamilton, Strathaven, Uddingston and East Kilbride to travelling sides from Ulster, Sale, and Bowdon. The turnout underlined the growing status of the Lanarkshire festival as a much-prized date on the youth rugby circuit. Teams battled it out across multiple age groups, with Dalziel enjoying home success in the U14 boys' and girls' categories. Club President John Mathieson 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.' This year's main sponsor, Millburn Construction, received heartfelt thanks from organisers, alongside numerous other generous backers and volunteers. Festival co-ordinator Graham Calder, son of the late Alan, added: '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.' * Don't miss the latest hea dlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
Glasgow Times
21-04-2025
- Sport
- Glasgow Times
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. Read more: 'I can't wait': New 'cirque spectacular' of iconic production coming to Glasgow 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. Read more: Glasgow pubs helped collect 20,500 Easter eggs for charity 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."
