The league season concluded in March but the players continued to turn out competing in (and coming pretty close to winning) a number of sevens tournaments.

One of Graeme Davidson’s last duties as President was to host the top table at the end of season dinner that took place in the clubhouse at OA on Saturday 27 April. The Players’ awards were handed over with Charlie Greaves leaving with a couple of pieces of silverware. Megan Gaffney gave a really entertaining talk about her time as a rugby player in the fast changing women’s game. She also gave a fascinating insight to her work with the School of Hard Knocks. She certainly captivated the audience.

A raffle and auction raised significant sums and the Club is making donations to Hearts and Balls and the School of Hard Knocks. A most enjoyable and productive evening.

The AGM took place on Thursday 6th June 2024. After two years in post, Graeme Davidson stood down as President. His successor Gavin Hutton’s first duty was to present Graeme with his commemorative tankard and to thank him for all that he had done for the Club whilst in post. Graeme  is remaining on the Committee for another season. Ken Cowan was nominated as Vice President. Welcome aboard Ken.

Some sad news in the recent past with the deaths of two persons with significant OA/Glasgow High rugby connections.

James Alexander Brunton (Bunny) Wilson (2/3/1931 – 4/4/2024) Played for GHSFP alongside the likes of Donald and Angus Cameron, Jimmy Docherty and Percy Friebe. One of his sons, Donald, played in the first GHK team and another son, Russell assisted Jon Boyle with the twos.

Ian Ross Gibbons (deceased 30/3/2024)

Ross attended the High School leaving around 1955. He played for Scottish Schools against English Schools and took easily to FP rugby. Like Bunny Wilson, Ross played with the Camerons and Jimmy Docherty. He was a very effective left wing and scored many tries in his career. Injuries did take their toll but not before he played an integral part in winning the Scottish Club Championship of 1961/62. A few years ago now, a relative of another former OA member sent in an programme of a game at OA  on 15th October 1955 involving a combined GHS FP/Glasgow Academicals XV taking on a British International XV. Cliff Morgan of Wales and the British Lions, Hugh McLeod and Tom Elliot, border stalwarts and Scotland caps, were in the International XV. Ross Gibbons lined up for the combined Anniesland XV. Not bad for a young man just out of school.

Two lives well lived. Condolences from all of the current GHK/Old Anniesland family.

Finally, just a wee reminder that pre season Started again on 2 July, and touch rugby taking place every Thursday down at OA.  Yes, it’s that time of year again!