Ruaridh Jackson: A fine example for any young rugby player to follow

Ruaridh Jackson, Class of ‘06 has announced his retirement from professional rugby to focus on the development of his co-founded company, Garden Shed Drinks.

Mr Anderson, Head of Rugby said: “Ruaridh joined the College 1st XV when he was in S4 and was part of a very strong team who did very well. He was a major part in the College winning the Scottish 7s that year and getting to the Schools Cup final at Murrayfield. 

“Speaking with Ruaridh recently on the announcement, it is a shame that his retirement cannot be celebrated in the usual ways. But nevertheless he should be very proud of a 14 year professional rugby career with Glasgow Warriors, Wasps and Harlequins, and 33 international caps. He is an excellent ambassador for Scottish rugby on and off the field and has always been a very positive and creative player, keen to try anything from anywhere. Ruaridh is a fine example for any young rugby player to follow.”

Ruaridh shared: “Throughout my playing career I have learnt a lot about how to improve my performance and the importance to me of teamwork, accountability, communication and thriving under pressure. Within team culture there is an emphasis placed on the value of relationships and this, along with hard work will always be the foundation of how I move forward as well as understanding that it’s important to be true to myself every single day.”

Mr Harper, Head of Sport added: “"It's always great to hear about former pupil achievements in any capacity but to see pupils such as Ruaridh achieve success as a professional athlete is always inspirational to our current young players. Ruaridh was always very accommodating when we visited Glasgow as a school with our S1 rugby teams, our pupils look up to him and I would hope that they can aspire to play the game in the same way he did, but also learn from his work ethic away from the pitch."