AYR Rugby Club has announced the launch of a new Scrum Academy, supported by fellow Ayrshire business We Hae Meat.

The initiative is designed to deliver world-class scrummaging skills across the Ayrshire rugby community, with a core focus on improving safety and raising standards.

The Scrum Academy will provide coaching to players of all levels, ensuring they develop the essential technical skills for effective and safe scrummaging.

We Hae Meat, based in Girvan, has partnered with Ayr Rugby Club to bring the initiative to life. 

We Hae Meat director Carlyn Paton said: “Partnering with Ayr Rugby Club on this project is an exciting initiative for us. We’re proud to contribute to the growth and safety of the sport at the grassroots level.”

Graeme Ferguson, ARFC general manager, said: "At Ayr Rugby Club, player development and welfare are at the heart of what we do. The Scrum Academy, based at Dam Park Stadium, will allow us to promote best practices in scrummaging, ensuring our players are equipped with the techniques that protect their safety while enhancing their game.

"We are very grateful to We Hae Meat for supporting our vision in creating this first-class facility.”

The Scrum Academy is open to players from youth to senior levels, but is particularly beneficial to players new to scrummaging and youth players looking to develop their skills.

It is an indoor facility that allows maximum participation regardless of the Scottish winter.

Coaching of the youth players is delivered by Glasgow Warriors Academy player, and product of the Ayr youth system, Jake Shearer.

The project has also been supported by the machine manufacturer Silver Fern, along with McNae Agricultural Engineers, who supplied the compressor and assisted with installation.