Robert Gordon’s College is taking another major step forward in its commitment to sport, with the launch of an exciting new Athletic Development & Fitness Suite at Schoolhill, supported by the Gordonian Association as the first Anchor Donor to our £3 million Campaign for Sport. The development also includes the appointment of a new full-time Athletic Development Coach and further investment in RGC’s sporting provision.

The new suite provides pupils with a dedicated space to develop physical literacy, movement competency, physical preparation and injury prevention. The suite forms part of RGC’s wider investment in sport and its ambitious £3 million Campaign for Sport. Talking about the support, Derek Rettie, Vice President of the Gordonian Association and Class of 1988, said that it gave him great pleasure to see the completion of the new facility, describing it as “a fantastic facility made possible through Gordonian Association funding.”

At the heart of this next phase is Mr Craig Gracie, who has joined RGC as the full-time Athletic Development Coach. Mr Gracie brings a strong academic and practical background in sport and exercise science, with experience in athletic development, sports science and school sport. Most recently, he attended the UK Strength and Conditioning Association (UKSCA) Conference, where he presented to fellow practitioners and engaged with the latest thinking and best practice in strength and conditioning. His appointment will enable RGC to provide a more consistent and progressive approach to athletic development across the College.

Mr Gracie, Athletic Development Coach, commented: “Athletic Development extends beyond immediate sporting performance, supporting long-term health, physical literacy, and confidence across the lifespan. Through age and developmentally appropriate programming, pupils build strong foundations to enhance performance, promote physical activity, and reduce the risk of injury. My ambition is to embed a robust Athletic Development support system into the school culture that extends far beyond my appointment, creating a lasting legacy for future generations of RGC pupils.”

Mrs Hardie, Director of Sport, highlighted: “This is a really exciting time for athletic development at RGC. Craig’s appointment and the new Athletic Development & Fitness Suite provide a fantastic platform for a more structured and progressive approach to physical development, helping pupils build the strength, confidence and foundations they need to enjoy sport and perform at their best. We are incredibly grateful to the Gordonian Association for supporting this important development.”

The new suite strengthens the connection between athletic development, training and competition, complementing RGC’s extensive sporting facilities and programmes.

With continued investment in facilities, coaching and sporting programmes, RGC is building an environment where every pupil can participate, develop and perform, while athletic development plays an increasingly important role in the sporting experience.