Application success proves big for Marr

(Image: Marr Rugby)

Marr Rugby Club have shared their delight following a recent application success for the Open Competition, marking it as a “big step forward”.

The conference, an age-grade competition creating school and club opportunities, has added the Troon-based club after a panel assessment alongside Scottish Rugby Development and High Performance department representatives.

This latest move will see Marr Boys first XV and under-16s compete at the “highest level”, which could see them compete against the nation’s best.

Scottish Rugby has outlined this latest expansion to focus around “player development, performance, and programme delivery”.

With Ayr Rugby Club already forming part of the Open Competition, Marr’s Head of Youth Colin Sturgeon has put this latest development down to a collective effort.

Sturgeon said: “We are delighted to have been accepted into the Open Competition. This achievement is a testament to all the hard work our players and coaches have been putting in.

“This is a massive step forwards for our programme and the opportunity to take on the best clubs and schools in the country on a weekly basis will be a brilliant challenge for our squads.”

Director Gregor Ness aligns with Sturgeon’s assessment of the club’s recent application success

He said: “This is a hugely significant milestone for out programme and a reflection of the hard work, commitment, and ambition shown across the club and our partnership with Marr College.

“To be recognised among Scotland’s leading development environments is something we are incredibly proud of, and we look forward to embracing the challenge and opportunities that this competition will bring.”

The Open Competition began last year for the 2025/26 season, including clubs and schools such as Boroughmuir and Strathallan.

Marr joins up with Edinburgh Academy, Glenalmond College and Glasgow Hutchesons Aloysians as the newcomers for the 2026/27 conference.