Aug
28
Boroughmuir appoints its Performance Academy Manager
Boroughmuir is delighted to announce the appointment of Chris Laidlaw as its first Performance Academy Manager.
Chris is well known amongst the Boroughmuir faithful having joined the club’s First XV for season 2014/15 from his home club Jed-Forest. This proved to be a successful season for Boroughmuir as they beat Hawick at BT Murrayfield to lift the Scottish Cup. Chris has represented Scotland Club XV along with a number of touring 7s teams. For the past three years, Chris has been working for Dunbar RFC as their Youth Development Officer along with a variety of coaching roles within the East Lothian and Borders Academy structure.
The creation of this role, which has overall responsibility for the Performance Development Players (PDP) Programme, builds on the hugely successful expansion of the Academy. The focus is on identifying and developing talented young players who demonstrate both a strong playing potential and the right attitude to progress their rugby career. Chris will support the existing Academy training programme and lead dedicated PDP sessions, ensuring a strong link between youth Academy and Senior rugby, both at amateur and semi professional level.
This exciting role is part of the club’s commitment to continue to drive an increased playing standard in the domestic game, but also to ensure that its senior teams are able to source players from a depth of home grown Boroughmuir talent. It also ensures there is a clear and well guided path for talented youngsters which will enhance the players experience and lead to the retention of talent.
Stevie Douglas, Club President said of Chris’ appointment:
‘I am delighted that Chris has accepted the role. He has been a great role model as a player and is respected by players, coaches and our members. His energy and commitment to the development of Boroughmuir and our internal talent is superb and will no doubt contribute to our future success’.
Of his appointment, Chris said:
‘I am very excited about this new role and particularly the chance to help shape the rugby journeys of our talented young players. I plan to work tirelessly to help the players to develop to their full potential by providing holistic support to help them reach a positive destination in their rugby at the club. As the club enters its centenary season and launches the Boroughmuir Bears, I can’t think of a more exciting time to be at Meggetland’.
