GARY COUPLAND

From the SRU Website:

“Gary Coupland of Annan has been recognised for this 40 plus years of service to the Dumfries based rugby club, picking up the Adam Gray Memorial Award.

As part of the prize giving ceremony, Gary was invited to present the match ball at the Glasgow v Zebre fixture.

Over the duration of his time with Annan Gary has been a player, coach, committee member and President. Starting out as a player in the 1980s, his passion for the club has endured, long after he hung up his boots.

The 61-year-old has been credited as the “driving force in helping Annan Rugby evolve into the inclusive club it is today”, by current President, Neil Moffat.

From instigating the revival of a youth section, initially with the formation of a boys’ team, Gary has since gone on to facilitate the introduction of mini/micro rugby to create a complete pathway into women and girls’ rugby.

In addition to this, Gary has also volunteered a significant amount of time delivering coaching to local primary and secondary schools to introduce the sport to more young people in the community. This work has since created additional delivery and development opportunities including work with Dumfries and Galloway’s Active Schools Programme, the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, and the Young Leaders programme.

Gary’s contributions and influences are not reserved for participation in the sport, his love and support reach wider than this.

Neil added: “Gary is eager to support causes close to his wide-reaching rugby family, participating in awareness and fundraising events for Looseheadz and My Name’5 Doddie. Even after his retirement as Club President, Gary was driving the support vehicle for Annan Rugby’s team of riders participating in the Doddie Cup 500.

“Gary’s willingness to lead change and his infectious and all-encompassing enthusiasm for all matters rugby, will undoubtedly be his legacy in years to come as the club continues to grow.”

Congrats Tag from all at Annan Rugby. Well deserved