We are thrilled to share that the Robert Gordon’s College 1st XV Rugby squad has earned a coveted place in the U18 Scottish Shield Final. The team will face Dollar Academy at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium on Wednesday 10 December 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 11:30am.

This remarkable achievement reflects the dedication, skill, and teamwork of our players throughout a season of hard-fought fixtures. The Final promises to be a thrilling contest, and the squad is eager to showcase their talent on one of Scotland’s most iconic rugby stages.

Mr Riddle, Ist XV Head Coach, shared: “I couldn’t be prouder of the players. I take a great deal of pride not just in the results, but in the performances. A large part of that, for me, is psychological - whether it’s tactical, technical, or, more importantly, the willingness to fight for each other, buy into a common goal, and work hard to get there. That’s what I’ve tried to push hard over the past two seasons, and the boys have continually bought in and done the work required. As a result, they have reaped the rewards.

“The last time a Robert Gordon’s College U18 side played on the main pitch at Murrayfield, none of the first XV who will play on 10 December would have been born. It is an unbelievable opportunity for these young players to write history for themselves as the quality individuals and team that they are, and to inspire the next generation of rugby players coming through as we continue to strengthen our programme at the school.

“The side is notably led by Glasgow Warriors U18 hooker James, and I can’t wait to see them go out and make the school and the local community proud on a national stage once again.”

1st XV Captain James said: “I am extremely proud of the whole squad and the effort we have put in this season to ensure we reached finals day once again. To have the opportunity to play in the Main Bowl at Murrayfield could be a once in a lifetime opportunity for us all and we are extremely excited as a group. Getting to the dance isn’t enough for us though. We will do everything we can to represent our coaches, our wider squad and most importantly the RGC badge we play with on our chest with a great deal of pride and resilience. Preparation for the final is well underway and we will give it our everything in the lead up and on the day as well. We hope we can do the school proud and bring home another famous finals day victory.”

Mr McLeod, Director of Sport, added: “I am over the moon for our 1st XV rugby boys and coaching team, who have worked incredibly hard to reach the final. There’s been a lot of changes to our rugby programme over the last couple of years, where we’ve invested significantly into our coaching team and resources in video analysis, nutrition, strength and conditioning, and our weekly training structure. The boys have bought into the vision set out by Mr Riddle and fully deserve their chance to play at Murrayfield. 

“It has been 20 years since an RGC 1st XV graced the Murrayfield turf, and we can’t wait to cheer the team on in what will be a very special occasion for everyone associated with the College. We plan on taking a lot of pupils down, which will be special for them to watch their friends but also for our young pupils who will hopefully be inspired to one day follow in their footsteps.”

Details:

• Fixture: Robert Gordon’s College v Dollar Academy
• Date: Wednesday 10 December 2025
• Location: Scottish Gas Murrayfield (Main Bowl), Roseburn Street, Edinburgh, EH12 5PJ

Kick-off: 11:30am