Inspired by Shetland, McKay inspires rugby’s next generation

Photo: Kevin Jones

Enjoying some well-earned downtime exploring one of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes, the Warriors full-back swapped holiday mode for coach mode to deliver a pair of sessions for the club’s junior section at Clickimin.

Working with both primary and secondary school players, McKay put youngsters through their paces with passing and kicking drills, games of tag rugby and even rugby baseball, before taking questions from the aspiring players at the end of each session.

Shetland Rugby Club may be over 100 miles closer to Norway than it is to Scotstoun, but the club remains an important part of the Glasgow Warriors family with Josh’s visit another chance to strengthen the connection between the Warriors and one of the many communities it represents.

Shetland Rugby Club President Jon Pulley praised the impact of the visit, thanking both Glasgow Warriors and McKay for making time during the player’s holiday.

“The enthusiasm from our junior players was great to see, especially early on a Sunday morning,” Pulley told Shetland News.

“That was reflected in the Q&A at the end of each session, with some great questions being asked.

“We’d also like to extend our thanks to both Glasgow Warriors, as well as to Josh himself, for giving up his time while here on holiday to come along and coach, teach and inspire our young players.

“You are welcome back any time.”

Photo: Kevin Jones

For McKay, the visit was another opportunity to combine two of his biggest passions. Rugby and the Scottish outdoors.

The New Zealand-born full-back has embraced exploring his adopted home since arriving in Glasgow, documenting his latest Shetland adventure on social media as he took in the islands’ spectacular coastline.

Among the highlights of the trip was a freediving excursion in Shetland’s famously clear waters. Unlike scuba diving, freediving sees participants explore beneath the surface on a single breath without the use of breathing apparatus, offering a unique perspective of Scotland’s marine environment.

With memories made both above and below the water, McKay was delighted to round off his Shetland adventure by spending time with the island’s young rugby players.

“I’ve loved getting out and exploring more of Scotland this summer and Shetland is an incredible place,” said McKay.

“Getting the chance to experience the coastline, get in the water and see somewhere completely different has been brilliant, but being able to finish the trip by spending time with the local rugby club made it even more special.

“The kids were outstanding. They turned up full of energy, asked some great questions and you could see how much they love the game. If you can help inspire even one or two young players to keep enjoying their rugby, then it’s always worth giving up a bit of your time.

“That’s something Glasgow Warriors is really proud of. We represent communities right across the west and north of Scotland, and whenever we get the opportunity to connect with local clubs and give something back, it’s something we all enjoy doing. Hopefully I’ll be back in Shetland again soon.”