Rugby: Edinburgh's open training session in Melrose gets a fan-tastic response
Last updated 22nd Feb 2023
Scores of schoolchildren in the Borders got to see some of the country's best rugby players in action this afternoon (Wednesday), when Edinburgh held an open training session at the Greenyards.
Among the familiar faces was former Melrose player Damien Hoyland (pictured), who took time afterwards to sign autographs and pose for photographs.
The 29-year-old, who has been capped four times for Scotland, told us: "It's been a while, but it's bringing back a lot of memories. It makes me proud to remember where I came from.
"It's great we've been able to get Edinburgh down here, because I can't imagine a lot of the lads in the Borders have the opportunity to meet some of the guys."
And he added: "There are a lot of guys who have made the professional ranks from playing in the Borders, so adding a little bit of extra encouragement is nice."
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Edinburgh Rugby Head Coach Mike Blair also welcomed the move to take training on the road.
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He said: “The Borders is a heartland of rugby in Scotland. We’re hugely grateful for the support Edinburgh Rugby receives from clubs and teams situated across the region, who so often make the journey north to get behind us at DAM Health Stadium.
“As one of world rugby’s most iconic grounds, and the home of Sevens rugby, we’re really excited to take our training to The Greenyards where supporters watch as our senior squad prepare to face Leinster the following weekend."
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