Importantly, the festival will feature both girls’ and boys’ matches, reflecting the continued growth and strength of girls’ rugby across Scotland and ESM’s commitment to providing equal opportunities on the pitch.
The event is being delivered in partnership with My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, raising awareness and funds for the charity’s vital work funding research into motor neuron disease. The foundation, established by our FP, the late rugby legend Doddie Weir, continues to make a profound impact across the MND community and beyond.
We are grateful for the support of Stewart’s Melville RFC, whose involvement helps strengthen the connection between current pupils and the wider school community. The festival is also supported by Edinburgh Napier University, whose collaborative input has been greatly valued. The School also extends its sincere thanks to this year’s ESM Rugby 7s brand partners XXV Sportswear, VSN Sport, and The Trophy Guy, for their generous support of kit, event t-shirts and trophies.
Nichola Aitchison, our new Director of Physical Education and Sport for Erskine Stewart Melville said:
“Building meaningful community sports connections and making rugby inclusive and accessible for all is something I care deeply about. I’m looking forward to our first Erskine Stewart Melville Rugby 7’s Festival and then seeing how this can grow year on year and become a key fixture in the school sporting calendar.”
Paul Thompson, Director of Fundraising and Communications for My Name’5 Doddie Foundation said “We’re grateful to ESM for backing My Name’5 Doddie Foundation through this new Rugby 7s Festival. Events like this bring people together and, importantly, help raise awareness and funds for research into motor neuron disease. Every bit of support moves us closer to effective treatments and, one day, a cure. We hope it’s a great day for everyone involved.”
The Erskine Stewart Melville Rugby 7s Festival promises to be a brilliant day of sport, teamwork and community spirit, celebrating the game while supporting an important cause.
