PLAYER INTERVIEW

Know Your Nails: Blues Women flanker Kirsty McConnell

How did you come to play rugby at Heriot’s?
I was dual registered with my old club Hillhead Jordanhill RFC at first but I had achieved what I wanted to do and became more interested in growing the game. Heriot’s Blues Women was a brand-new set up and the coaches were really ambitious about the growth of the club and women’s rugby as a whole. I love that and wanted to be part of that vision. I was delighted when our team won the league.

What do you enjoy about being a Heriot’s player?
Support from everyone: staff, men’s teams and former players has been class. As a Heriot’s player I enjoy the equilibrium between dancing, clubhouse red wine and the proper aggressive rucking drills Ruthie offers. It helps me deal with life’s ups and downs.

When did you start playing rugby and why?
Never had a choice as such! Both parents played for Hills and I was that kid just left at the side of the pitch to chuck a ball with my brothers until we could play in the Minis. It was the 90s, so was a bit lax.

What is your favourite rugby memory?
Some tours away to Islay Beach rugby with folks were just ridiculous and I now have life-long friends. But sensible answer, probably the 2017 season, getting capped in the Scotland 7s but way more importantly Hills beating Wandies in the Sarah Beaney Cup Final at Murrayfield that year.

If you are interested in joining Heriot’s Rugby Club please email enquiries@heriotsrugbyclub.co.uk .