Ethan Wilson's commitment to rugby recognised with award

The sport’s governing body in Scotland presented its Community Recognition Awards for the East Region on Saturday.

The awards are Scottish Rugby’s annual domestic game awards programme, focusing on the on and off-field efforts of clubs and schools from across the country over the course of the season.

Ethan Wilson, who joined Gala Rugby four years ago when he moved with his family to be closer to the regional development centre at Borders College, was the recipient of the Young Person’s Award.

Ethan Wilson received a top award from Scottish Rugby. Image: Scottish Rugby/SNS

A spokesperson for Scottish Rugby said: “Quickly settling into under-16 rugby, Ethan engaged with players, coaches and the wider club, identifying that he would like to get involved in the club’s rugby development pathway.

“He then took on the role of lead coach for one of the minis teams after their coach left for other commitments.

“This effectively enabled 20 young boys and girls to continue to play the sport over the last three-and-a-half years.

“Ethan further volunteered to support the club’s youth development officer with after-school coaching of the school’s S3 group, which he has followed this year by being part of the coaching team as their group progress through under-16 rugby.

“Ethan coaches in a way that allows him to pass on his contemporary knowledge of the game in a relatable manner to the players.

“The commitment of someone so young to give so much back to the game has been commended by those who have nominated Ethan.”

The awards were presented at Scottish Gas Murrayfield on Saturday.

Ethan Wilson (left), alongside Ally Chalmers, east regional manager, received a top award from Scottish Rugby. Image: Scottish Rugby/SNS

Award winners were announced for six categories: volunteer of the season in youth rugby; volunteer of the season in schools rugby; volunteer of the season in adult rugby; young person’s award; community club of the season; and community referee of the season.

The Scottish Rugby spokesperson added: “Ethan has assisted with a programme which promotes the expansion of rugby to those who haven’t yet played the game.

“He shared his experiences of what the game has to offer and how it helps him develop key life skills, behaviour, discipline and community spirit.

“His commitment hasn’t stopped there, as Ethan is involved in Gala Rugby’s events committee, not only helping to organise youth awards dinner, but also events like ‘Marooned@Gala’ which is the largest event on the calendar for the club.

“Ethan’s continued selflessness to youth rugby has prompted this award. His ability to jump in and do whatever it takes to grow rugby with young players and support the long-term viability of rugby in Galashiels has been admirable.”

In May, the four regional winners will return to the stadium, where a national winner will be selected.