Edinburgh Rugby's Community Thursday started with a bang on Thursday September 28 when 18 members of the first team squad, including captain Simon Cross, visited Firhill High School.

The pupils were handed a masterclass in top-class rugby by the players as they undertook a variety of drills including being shown how to pass the ball correctly. Who knows the session may have unearthed a future Scotland international? Around 40 children enjoyed the experience and it is just the start of a progressive programme designed to strengthen the relationship between the premier rugby club in the Scottish capital and the grassroots game in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Rugby's Linda Gordon said: "The boys were absolutely fantastic and it was an enjoyable experience."

Every week, a large number of the Edinburgh first team squad are available to schools, clubs and other local bodies to assist with grass roots development, promotional activity, or club assistance as part of a wide range of initiatives.  The Club is increasingly committed to delivering in the local community, and Community Thursday is the first of a range of initiatives to be run throughout the year.

On Friday night, Edinburgh Rugby's CEO Nic Cartwright, together with SRU development staff will be presenting to a large group of individuals from Schools and Clubs from across Edinburgh. 

Nic said: "There is a huge amount of rugby playing and rugby loving individuals within our catchment area.  I want to ensure that we do all that we can to represent the sport as well as the Club in the best light.  We will be doing more and more as the year runs on to ensure we are important to the lcoal community."

Details of community visits and other activity will appear at www.edinburghrugby.org.  If you want to learn more about Community Thursday please contact the Club.