Ayrshire schools to compete in Glasgow Warriors tournament

Marr College's James Drummond; Irvine Royal Academy's Lisa-Marie McLaughlin and Rio McClymont; and Marr's Amelia Grant gear up for the 2025 SP Energy Networks Glasgow Warriors Rugby Championship at Scotstoun Stadium <i>(Image: SP Energy Networks)</i>
Marr College's James Drummond; Irvine Royal Academy's Lisa-Marie McLaughlin and Rio McClymont; and Marr's Amelia Grant gear up for the 2025 SP Energy Networks Glasgow Warriors Rugby Championship at Scotstoun Stadium (Image: SP Energy Networks)
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AYRSHIRE school rugby players are set to compete in the 2025 SP Energy Networks Glasgow Warriors Rugby Championship.

Teams from Belmont Academy, Carrick Academy, Grange Academy, Irvine Royal Academy, Largs Academy, and Marr College will take on 16 other schools at Scotstoun Stadium this week.

The tournament, now in its eighth year, is a key part of the community partnership between the electricity network operator and the rugby club.

It aims to support grassroots rugby and provide a platform for budding rugby stars, while also highlighting STEM opportunities for students.

Students from Irvine Royal Academy and reigning champions Marr College attended the championship launch event at Scotstoun Stadium, home of the Warriors.

They enjoyed a day of sport, science, and fun, including a workshop from Stemovators on how electricity works.

The Ayrshire teams will take on 16 other schools (Image: Charlie Fraser-Hopewell) Colin Sturgeon, head of rugby at Marr College, said: "We are delighted to be back at Scotstoun in 2025 to defend the SPEN Championship title.

"All of our pupils love their trips to the Warriors and the S1 pupils are so excited to get involved and see what it is all about."

Rory Couper, PE teacher at Irvine Royal Academy, said: "Irvine Royal Academy cannot wait to be part of this year’s SPEN Championships.

"For a school who have only been playing rugby for 18 months, it brings a real level of excitement to be playing rugby at the home of the Glasgow Warriors.

"This is our first time entering the tournament and we cannot wait to demonstrate all the skills we have been developing over the year and play against new schools."

Graham Campbell, director of cyber transformation at SP Energy Networks, said: "It’s great to launch the 2025 championship at Scotstoun Stadium – home of the Warriors.

"Opportunities like this help support active lifestyles among young people in the communities we serve, while developing important skills like teamwork, communication, and leadership."

Al Kellock, Glasgow Warriors managing director, added: "Our partnership with SP Energy Networks is all about making a tangible difference to the lives of people in our community.

"By working with SP Energy Networks, we’re providing valuable opportunities for participation, education, and competition."

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