Heather Bonner from Kirkcaldy Rugby Club was at Hive Stadium on Saturday to deliver the match ball ahead of the Edinburgh Rugby women’s Celtic Challenge fixture against Gwalia Lightning.
As part of Edinburgh’s ongoing initiative to honour the heartbeat of grassroots rugby, Bonner was recognised for four decades of selfless service to the Beveridge Park club with this moment.
From coaching and kit management to spearheading vital infrastructure projects, Bonner embodies the spirit of grassroots rugby.
“It was nice to be asked to deliver the match ball at the weekend and I’ve had many roles at Kirkcaldy,” she explained.
“From ‘Aunty Heather’ and Wee Blues convenor and coach, child protection officer, and tour kit manager I have helped with it all over the years.
“Last year I even took on the role of project manager to see our new accessible toilet through from start to finish. I just love to help and if I can’t do it myself I’ll find someone who can.
“Watching the club grow and my family be a part of things at Kirkcaldy has been everything.
“Seeing my boys go from the Wee Blues to senior rugby and seeing them play on the main pitch, well those are the moments that stick with you and I just love being involved at the club.”
Despite Bonner getting a great reception as she walked on the Hive pitch before the game, unfortunately Edinburgh’s Celtic Challenge woes continued.
Edinburgh were just 12-7 down at the break to Welsh side Gwalia, but capitulated in the second half and lost 43-7. It means that, after five of 10 regular season rounds, they are fifth in the six-team event.
Heather Bonner is pictured delivering the match ball at the weekend – thanks to ST Photography