Despite this unexpected relegation, season 2008/2009 will, once again, involve a very challenging collection of matches, some against teams and in locations with which we are not overly familiar.

The standard of rugby may not be quite what we have become used to, so the players will face an additional challenge if they wish to demonstrate that they are capable of stepping up to the 1st XV during the course of the season.

There has also been a change of management for the 2nd XV this season. Mark Burgess is taking a break from rugby due to injury, and has been replaced by the dynamic, East vs West coaching duo of Malky MacColl and Craig Docherty.

Brian 'Tubbs' McDougall, so long a stalwart of our 2nd XV both on and off the pitch, has just moved down to Newcastle to work there, so can't be as involved with the club as has been the case in recent seasons. He will, however, continue to coordinate player registration and kit ordering for us.

Tony Wood will act as 2nd XV team manager this season.

Coaches for season 2008/09

Craig Docherty - Craig previously coached the 2nd XV in season 2003/04, replacing Grant MacKenzie after Macca became 1st XV Backs Coach. 'Doc' is a former player at the Club who spent many seasons playing 1st Division rugby at both Stand Off and Inside Centre. Before his first stint as 2nd XV Coach, Craig spent four years coaching Edinburgh University, leading them to the BUSA Shield title in March 2002. When not coaching rugby, he tours the cabaret circuit with his highly successful Michael Barrymore tribute act.

Malcolm MacColl - After many years hooking and abusing referees for the 1st XV - plus Edinburgh U18 to U21 and Scottish Universities - Malky has finally decided to pass his skills on to the younger generation at the club. This is likely to involve a combination of posh swearing, home baking and the threat of pool parties back at Coach Barrymore's house for any underachievers.

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