SP Energy Networks Community Spotlight | Hao Frew

The SP Energy Networks Community Spotlight is back for the 2025/26 season, and we have our first winner, with Hao Frew from East Kilbride RFC.

Hao has been involved in coaching athletics previously and started getting involved in rugby when her children started playing. She now is involved in coaching the P6 team at East Kilbride.

Hao has helped to grow the game by keeping the sessions fun and enjoyable. She knows that team sport isn’t just about what happens on the pitch, so makes sure there are plenty of other fun incentives to stay involved.

One that everyone loves is an end of year, which everyone gets dressed up including coaches and parents. There are prizes and medals for the children and even a prize for the parents! She has also helped to grow the section by running ‘bring a friend’ session which have a mix of learning rugby skills and other fun games.

Hao is a keen fundraiser and has helped raise money for equipment and trips for not just rugby, but athletics, football and judo – sports her children also enjoy. She encourages participation in other sports which has seen a lot of children start judo, which is in turn helping their confidence in tackling when playing rugby.

Hao has also started attending local schools as a club representative to run taster sessions to further increase the size of the section. She is a great champion of sport locally for children and young people, making sure the know the benefits of not just keeping fit but the opportunities to form friendships and have a positive impact in the community.

Hao recognises the importance of volunteers within her club and within the P6 coaching group and organises team nights out for the coaches. Further highlighting the bond, they have developed and a great way to thank them for all the hard work they put in throughout the year.

Hao was nominated for this award by Steven Mackie who said, “For Hao to be awarded the SP Energy Networks Community Hero Award means so much to all the coaches, kids and families of not just our P6 group but all the academy at East Kilbride RFC.

“Hao is one of the kindest, friendliest and most selfless people you could meet. She does so much for the kids and makes sure the kids have the best time at rugby and Hao is so deserving of this award.”

On being recognised for this award, Hao said, “I had been coaching with a local athletics club when my 3 older girls were competing. When my son and youngest daughter joined EKRFC I noticed what a lovely club it was.

“I realised rugby is such an amazing sport. It’s fun, challenging and the team spirit it grows within the children can be life changing.

“I feel so lucky to part of the P6 coaching team. We believe that the kids should have so much fun that they want to come back and play next season.

I’m delighted and slightly embarrassed to have been nominated for this as I feel I’m just part of a wonderful team. Thank you so much.”

Hao will be presenting the Match Ball at our BKT United Rugby Championship fixture against Hollywoodbet Sharks on Friday 26 September.