W6Ns Italy week: Mackie members have a “truly unforgettable” day at Murrayfield

Gary Heatly

A group of Mackie rugby club members had a “truly unforgettable” day at Murrayfield last Saturday after they were recipients of an ‘Ultimate Guinness Rugby Experience’ prize.

They got involved with loads during the Scotland-England Women’s Six Nations round two matchday including being on the hallowed turf at the national stadium in charge of a giant flag, visiting the changing rooms, meeting the BBC broadcast team including Jade Konkel, meeting ex-Scotland men’s winger Tommy Seymour and meeting current Scotland players Demi Swann and Hollie Cunningham.

After the game played in front of a record crowd of 30.498. one of the group took to social media via the club’s official channels to say:  “I don’t think words will ever fully do this justice, but Saturday at Murrayfield was something truly unforgettable.

“It was a day that will stay with us for the rest of our lives and it makes it even more special knowing how we got there in the first place.

“This all started with former player Ross Clyne put us forward for this Guinness experience.

“From there, the club were asked who we are, what we stand for and the journey we’re on. To then be chosen ahead of five other clubs, well it still doesn’t quite feel real. An opportunity like this, given to us, is something we’ll always be grateful for.

“The day itself began in the dark with an early train from Aberdeen – there were tired eyes but full hearts and a quiet excitement that kept building with every mile south.

“Coffee in hand, a zero percent Guinness for the occasion and breakfast on the train was had as we laughed, chatted and started to realise just how special the day ahead was going to be.

“Then we arrived and suddenly it was real. Walking into Murrayfield you could feel the history, the energy and the magnitude of it all. Being shown how to carry the flag onto that iconic pitch, rehearsing every step, being guided on and off like championship show ponies felt surreal, emotional and honestly a little overwhelming in the best possible way.

“Behind the scenes moments made it even more special. Stepping into the changing rooms, meeting former players who have worn the shirt with pride and somehow Kelly and I finding ourselves part of the coin toss alongside the captains – moments we never could have imagined, let alone experience.

“But nothing, nothing compared to standing on that pitch.

“Hearing the noise of the crowd, feeling the atmosphere and then singing our national anthem together at Murrayfield is hard to describe what that felt like. Pride, nerves, joy all at once. For those few moments we weren’t just watching history, we were part of it. Representing something bigger than ourselves, side by side. It truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“To then receive medals from the Scotland team was incredibly special – a moment of recognition we’ll treasure forever.

“Flo and Elaine had the incredible honour of presenting the Player of the Match medal at the end of the game, another surreal moment that perfectly captured just how special the whole experience had been.

“What made the day even more powerful was who we shared it with. The friendships formed, the laughter and the support all a reminder of just how strong and special the rugby community is.

“And knowing that this experience is helping support and inspire the next generation of female players at Mackie makes it all the more meaningful.

“From the stands our girls squad from Mackie watched on in awe, building their aspiration for the future as they locked in their goals. We say you have to see it to BE it – so watching at Murrayfield – Scotland’s rugby home – matters!

“And our club are so proud to call Megan Hyland the under-21 captain one of our own – seeing her achieve her dream matters.

“This wasn’t just a day out, it was pride, it was connection, it was inspiration – and it’s a day we will carry with us forever.”

Mackie members are pictured during their ‘Ultimate Guinness Rugby Experience’

The Women’s Six Nations is here and the 2026 event runs from April 11 to May 17 and, between April 6 and May 20, GH Media will be covering Scotland’s campaign and the wider tournament – keep an eye out for content and thanks to everyone who supports GH Media’s work within women’s rugby