Ex Pais rugby athlete Matt McPhillips has recently been selected for the Scotland U20’s World Cup squad
Matt McPhillips is a great example of what can be achieved when you persevere and enjoy what you do. Matt attended Dunbar Grammar School where he was a standout player for their various teams. He started on the Pais rugby programme in S4 and always worked really hard on the programme. He represented East Lothian Falcons, Edinburgh U16’s and Edinburgh U18’s but missed out on national honours. During his U17 season, Matt suffered a serious knee ligament injury during Pais training which ruled him out for the whole season. He has shown great determination to come back from injuries and also dealt well with some disappointments along the way. Matt played for Dunbar RFC senior 1st XV during his last year at school. He then left to play for Currie RFC to get Premiership rugby and was selected to play for Scotland U19’s last season. Matt has continued to work hard at his game and his performances this past season have reflected that. After missing out on selection for the U20’s Six Nations tournament, he was selected for the Scotland U20’s World Cup squad which is currently being played in Manchester. Matt came off the bench in their loss to England but performed really well. He is now in the team to start the final pool match which is a crucial game against Italy.
Matt has done really well in his rugby so far but it hasn’t come easy. It is great to see him continuing his progression after school and doing really well. He is an example to all young rugby players in East Lothian of what can be achieved through hard work and a passions for what you do.
