West of Scotland FC and Glasgow University Rugby Announce New Partnership
Monday, 14 July 2025
West of Scotland FC is proud to announce a new partnership with Glasgow University Rugby, beginning in August 2025. This strategic collaboration brings together two of Glasgow’s most ambitious and community-driven rugby clubs – across both men's and women's sections – to grow the game and create new opportunities for players, coaches, and supporters.
The partnership will include:
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Shared use of facilities
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Joint training sessions
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Collaborative coach development
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Combined fundraising and social events
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Community engagement initiatives
A key outcome will be the creation of a joint 3rd XV team – GU West – competing in the Scottish Rugby Reserve Leagues. This side will provide valuable playing opportunities for university students and West players, supporting development pathways and strengthening both clubs' senior structures.
With both Glasgow University Men’s and Women’s teams earning promotion last season, this partnership represents a powerful step forward.
Ian McDiarmid, President of West of Scotland FC, said:
“This partnership is a fantastic opportunity for two well-established rugby communities to come together and raise standards across the board. We’re proud to be working alongside Glasgow University and look forward to supporting each other as we strive for success on and off the field.”
Steven Meenagh, Rugby Development Manager, added:
“Glasgow University Rugby shares West’s vision of expanding playing opportunities and supporting player development at all levels. This partnership will help ensure fixtures are fulfilled and players – both men and women – can find the right level to grow. Having worked within both clubs, I’m genuinely excited about what we can achieve together.”
Lewis Skinner, Rugby Development Officer at Glasgow University, commented:
“To all our members: this partnership is about you. It’s about giving you the platform to develop, to compete, and to be part of something bigger than just one season or one team. West of Scotland FC shares our vision of growing the game in Glasgow, and this partnership gives us the tools to turn that vision into action.
A huge thank you to our Men’s and Women’s Committees for their outstanding leadership, to UofG Sport for their continued belief in what we’re building, and to the West of Scotland FC committee for their collaboration, energy and shared ambition. We’re all-in on this journey and we’re just getting started.”
Together, West of Scotland FC and Glasgow University Rugby are committed to building a stronger, more inclusive rugby environment for the city and beyond.
