Obituary: Alan Cruickshanks

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - OCTOBER 22: Alan Cruickshank during a SRU Youth Panel headshot sesson at BT Murrayfield, on October 20, 2022, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

Alan first joined Paisley RFC when he was 11 years of age. The tight-head prop spent two seasons captaining a combined Paisley/Bishopton team at U14 level before playing with Garnock RFC’s U16 side.

In 2019, a change in Alan’s health saw him seek a shift in his involvement in rugby, moving from playing to coaching and refereeing.

Having been sidelined from rugby during the pandemic, at the earliest opportunity Alan completed his Level 1 coaching and match officiating qualifications. Very quickly he began covering a number of youth tournaments for Paisley and volunteering his time to support with coaching.

In 2022, Alan was announced as one of 16 aspiring leaders to make up Scottish Rugby’s Youth Panel.

Alan’s application stood out to the selection committee for his passion for the sport and desire to mould the future of the game for other young people.

Working alongside his fellow panel members, Alan worked closely with a number of key members of the Rugby Development Department, including Youth Panel Consultant, Fraser Govan.

Speaking about Alan’s impact on the Youth Panel, Fraser said: “Alan had an infectious enthusiasm for rugby and could light up any room he was in. He contributed significantly to the work of the panel, particularly in the space of engaging more young people in refereeing and supporting U18 players transition to senior rugby.

“I am deeply saddened to hear of Alan’s passing. We have worked closely with all of our Youth Panel members to provide them with the support they need at this difficult time.”

Ronald McNeil, President of Paisley RFC said: “Alan was a member of Paisley for many years, playing youth rugby then coaching junior squads for the last four years. He also became one of the youngest referees in Scotland, qualifying aged just 15.

“A familiar face to everyone, Alan’s support for Paisley, and in particular our junior section, was undisputed. He was a lovely, enthusiastic and generous young man who adored all things rugby.

“The Paisley Rugby family will miss him deeply.”

Scottish Rugby extends its sincere condolences to all of Alan’s family and friends, members of Paisley and Bishopton RFC and the Youth Panel.