At a time when many rugby clubs are struggling to field teams at various levels, including a 1st XV, the Bishopbriggs outfit now has sufficient player numbers to relaunch their much-missed 3rd XV.

With both existing senior teams doing very well, senior players have been attracted to the Bearyards, swelling the numbers at training.

And the conveyor belt of talent created by the Allan Glen’s Rugby Academy – which fields teams at every age-group level from Rugby Rascals up through mini rugby to midis and Under-18s - has been so successful that the 2nd XV has basically become an Under-21 side full of young players pushing for selection for the 1st XV.

3rd XV organiser Jim Adams explains: “While the Firsts and Seconds are very competitive, we see the Thirds as more of a social team.

“It’s also a good way of making sure that we keep hold of players who maybe haven’t been getting so much rugby for the other two teams, as they know they’ll get a run-out on a Saturday and won’t drift away from the game.

“The 3rd XV is also perfect for those who can’t commit to every training session but still want to enjoy a game of rugby with their mates.

“We’ve got some players who have sons in the Academy – and a fair few whose boys are now playing senior rugby themselves!”

So if you fancy dipping your toe into rugby or coming back to the game, come along to the Bearyards on a Tuesday or Thursday when senior training starts at 6.45pm.

Allan Glen’s 3rd XV will have their first fixture this Saturday, September 11, against Strathendrick 2nds.

Written by Alan Shaw