Two Strathallan School students will represent the School and the Kingdom of Fife this month as they take to the field for the U18 Barbarians Rugby team against Rugby School in a landmark match commemorating the 200th anniversary of the sport’s birth.
Stewart Payne, a 17-year-old from Kirkcaldy, said he was over the moon to be selected for the U18 Barbarians side.
“It’s an incredible honour to be chosen to represent the Barbarians U18 side,” he said. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to participate in one of the final matches of this historic series.”
Stewart, who has been playing rugby for six years, joined Strathallan this year from Kirkcaldy Rugby Club. He reflected on the transformative impact of attending Strathallan.
“Joining Strathallan has been a game-changer,” he stated. “The level of rugby I’ve been playing here has been higher than I’ve experienced before, and I’m thrilled to represent the school and Scotland next weekend. I’m determined to give it my all and be the best player I can for the team.”
Adam Williamson, a 16-year-old from Ceres in Fife, has been an avid rugby player since P3, having started at the age of eight with Howe of Fife Rugby Club. He joined Strathallan in 2021 and has steadily progressed through the ranks, culminating in his instrumental role in leading the U16 XV to the Scottish Schools Final at Murrayfield last year.
Now a key player in the 1st XV backfield, Adam said he was thrilled to head to Rugby School for the match on the 9th of December.
“This is a rare opportunity for both of us,” he added. “Being selected for the Barbarians means a lot to me. It will be the highest level of rugby I’ve ever played, and I’m genuinely excited to get stuck in.”
Celebrating their news, Director of Strathallan’s Rugby Academy, Andrew Henderson, said “It’s fantastic to see two of our Academy Players selected for this unique game, a first I believe for the renowned Barbarian club. Being from Fife myself, it is with immense pride to see wo young Fifers selected.”
“I have absolute confidence that Stewart and Adam will give their all in this match, just as they have done throughout the year at school and club level. As Strathallan was graciously invited to join Rugby School for their 200th Anniversary International U18 Sevens in March, it’s wonderful to see more of our rugby stars have the opportunity to showcase their talent at the end of a momentous year for the sport.”
Photo credit: Strathallan School
Categories: School News Strathallan School
