Livingston named BT Club of the Month

Livingston has been named as one of the BT Clubs of the Month for December-January for their commitment to developing rugby talent.

The club recently began part-funding a full-time Development Officer to deliver curricular sessions in a local school and ensure that young players are given more opportunities than ever to get involved in rugby.

They boast a team at every age group for boys and girls and have introduced ‘Transition Officers’ to assist players in moving from youth to adult rugby, not only within the club but linking up with new clubs further afield.

Livingston President, Lee Anne Steel, said: “I’m delighted that Livingston have been named as one BT Club of the Month for December-January as we have put a lot of work into developing every aspect of the club.

The club community is as strong as ever and we are seeing that reflected both on and off the field.”

The West Lothian side have three age-group girls teams and a women’s team, run in partnership with Hamilton, currently playing in the National Development League. This year saw their first girls team member make the step up to senior rugby to play in the women’s league.

Their men’s team are third in BT East League Division 1 following an unbeaten December with a string of good results including a win over second-placed North Berwick.

Livingston have been successful in improving their financial sustainability through improved management, promoting memberships and hiring out their newly licensed facilities to generate extra funds.

They have also focused on developing coaching with recent training by their community partner charity, Signpost, helping them to support children with autism.

The BT Club of the Month award celebrates on-pitch performance, discipline and rugby development.

To win, a club does not have to be the best in all three areas, but should show a successful balance, with potential for long-term growth.

Clubs receive £200 plus a 12 month commercial BT Sport subscription for their clubhouse.

Winning clubs will also be nominated for BT Club of the Season at the annual Club Awards Dinner at BT Murrayfield.

To nominate your club, a volunteer or try for the BT Awards please visit: http://www.scottishrugby.org/clubnominations