​Peter Walton joins as SQ Performance Player Transition Manager

Walton is vastly experienced in talent identification and joins Scottish Rugby from Gloucester Rugby as Head of Academy in a post he has held since 2019.

Prior to that the 24 timed capped Scotland international worked with Bristol Bears as well as 10 years with the RFU where he held the position of International Performance Coach, operating as forwards coach for the England age grade sides, ranging from U15s to U20s.

Walton’s coaching career began at Newcastle Falcons in 2000 where he oversaw the development of more than 14 international players including Rory Best and Tim Visser during an eight year spell at the club.

Walton will work closely with Head of Player Transition Kenny Murray by leading and developing the SQ Performance Programme to provide a clear performance pathway for Scottish qualified men and women’s players aged over 18 who have the potential to play U20s, with Scotland international teams or Edinburgh Rugby/Glasgow Warriors.

Scottish Rugby’s Head of Player Transition Kenny Murray said: “Having a man of Peter Walton’s experience join us will be of massive benefit to Scottish Rugby as we aim to scour the globe to discover the best players eligible to play for Scotland and make a positive impact to both our club and international sides, adding depth to those players based within Scotland.

“We already have Rob Brierley in position, targeting Scottish qualified male and female players under the age of 18 but this new role will help widen the net to ensure we give ourselves the best possible chance to explore every avenue when it comes to players who have the ability to benefit the Scottish game.

“Peter is an expert in Talent ID having recently been Head of Academy at Gloucester Rugby and I am excited to work closely with him as we aim to increase and improve the pool of players available to us.”

Scottish Qualified Performance Player Transition Manager Peter Walton said: “In order for Scottish Rugby to fulfil it’s full potential it is important to make sure we are able to identify all players eligible to play for Scotland and it is a challenge I am really looking forward to undertaking.

“After working in England for the last 20 years it is great to be back involved with Scotland where I am aiming to make a real positive impact and help improve the pool of players available to our national and club coaches.

“Having been involved in professional rugby since the very beginning I am excited about what I can do to help with the success of Scottish Rugby going forward and give players the opportunity to be watched and progress through to becoming senior internationals.”