Business Details
Kelso RFC - Home of Rugby in Kelso Since 1876
Established in 1876, Kelso RFC stands as a cornerstone of rugby tradition in the Scottish Borders. Our club operates from Poynder Park, offering competitive and recreational rugby opportunities for players of all ages through senior, ladies, youth, and mini rugby programmes. With a strong emphasis on community engagement, we host regular fixtures, summer camps, and social events while maintaining historical archives that celebrate our 150-year legacy. Our membership structure supports inclusive participation, and our dedicated coaching staff ensures player development at every level.The club actively collaborates with local sponsors and partners to enhance facilities including modern changing rooms and training spaces. Through our youth development officer and mini convenors, we nurture future talent while maintaining rigorous child protection standards. Our match-day experiences combine competitive spirit with hospitality, featuring light lunches and supporter engagement activities. The club's governance structure includes elected officers and administrators who ensure operational excellence across all departments.
Services
Senior Rugby Teams
Ladies Rugby
Youth Development
Mini Rugby
Summer Camps
Membership Programmes
Match Day Hospitality
Community Events
Sponsorship Packages
Facility Hire
Highlights and features
- We have over 145 years of rugby heritage in the Scottish Borders
- Our youth development programmes nurture future international talent
- We operate modern facilities including dedicated changing rooms
- Our experienced coaching staff includes certified professionals
- We maintain strict child protection and safety standards
What people say
Great youth development
Historic tradition
Community events
Services
Senior Rugby Teams
Competitive rugby for adult players through our 1st XV and Harlequins teams. We compete in national leagues and local fixtures at Poynder Park. Our experienced coaching staff develops player skills while maintaining competitive standards. The programme includes regular match days with supporter engagement activities.
Youth Development
Structured rugby training for U16 to U18 players preparing for senior competition. Our development officer and certified coaches deliver skills programmes aligned with Scottish Rugby Union standards. Participants gain match experience through competitive fixtures against regional teams.
Mini Rugby
Recreational rugby for primary school children (P1-U15) introducing fundamental skills in a safe environment. Sessions focus on teamwork and physical development through age-appropriate drills. Regular mini-tournaments foster community spirit while identifying potential future players.
Summer Camps
Annual summer training camps providing intensive rugby instruction for youth players. Daily sessions cover technical skills, tactical awareness and fitness. Camp includes match simulations and concludes with a showcase event for families and supporters at Poynder Park.
Membership Programmes
Annual membership granting access to all home fixtures and exclusive club benefits. Members receive priority booking for events and voting rights at AGMs. Membership fees directly support youth development and facility maintenance at our historic Borders ground.
People
Eric Paxton
Club President
Eric leads our club governance with extensive experience in rugby administration. He oversees strategic direction while maintaining our community-focused ethos.
Neil Hinnigan
Director of Rugby
Neil manages player development pathways from mini rugby to senior teams. His coaching expertise ensures consistent technical standards across all age groups.
Murray Hastie
Development Officer
Murray coordinates youth programmes and community outreach initiatives. He implements training frameworks that align with national rugby development objectives.
Alex Richardson
Child Protection Officer
Alex ensures all youth activities meet safeguarding standards. She oversees volunteer training and maintains compliance with national child protection policies.
Georgina Buckingham-Crole
Socials & Sponsorship
Georgina manages community events and corporate partnerships. She develops sponsorship packages that support club operations and facility improvements.
Questions
When was Kelso RFC founded?
Kelso RFC was established in 1876, making us one of Scotland's oldest rugby clubs.
What age groups do you cater for?
We offer rugby programmes for P1-U15 mini rugby, youth teams, senior men and ladies.
How can I book summer camp?
Our annual summer camp runs in August at Poynder Park. Booking details appear on our website in early July.
Reviews (3)
Darin Birmingham
Sep 28, 2021
Report
What a great afternoon watching Scottish borders rugby. Super club house with refreshments and full of nice people chatting making us feel welcome. The stadium is well maintained and comfortable.
Kelso won today and it was great to watch thirty guys giving it their all. Most importantly men not feigning injury or trying to get the opposition sent off for nothing.
Footballers take notice a contact sport means contact not rolling around on the floor over nothing and making squealing noises...its not a good look! Then after bashing the life out of each other both teams clapped each off the pitch
Kelso won today and it was great to watch thirty guys giving it their all. Most importantly men not feigning injury or trying to get the opposition sent off for nothing.
Footballers take notice a contact sport means contact not rolling around on the floor over nothing and making squealing noises...its not a good look! Then after bashing the life out of each other both teams clapped each off the pitch
Ted Johnston
Oct 29, 2019
Report
Your always welcome supporter or opposition ! Good grounds and facilities fun friendly atmosphere !! In the loveliest of Border towns !!!
Robert Sloan
Jun 12, 2018
Report
A great club with a very proud history. Every age group is welcome to play and there is a strong social life. Great place to be.
