Tributes have been paid to former Edinburgh Rugby captain and Scottish internationalist Ally Donaldson, who has died aged 60.
A pillar of the Currie club whom he helped coach to two Scottish premiership titles, Ally also had a hand in developing some outstanding talent at George Watson’s College where, for 36 years, he was both a PE teacher and a director of rugby before taking early retirement.
Stand-off Ally was part of the Edinburgh squad who entered the prestigious European Cup competition at Bath in 1996 and a year later was captaining the side.
His international experience came on Scotland’s tour of the South Seas in 1993 when he was part of the team which defeated Fiji 21-10 (contributing 11 points with an educated boot) and although no caps were awarded initially a decision to give retrospective honours in recent years was surely fitting. A contemporary report of his international debut noted how he had helped clinch victory by putting Kenny Logan over for a decisive try.
Currie president Jestyn Davies said: “Ally was a huge part of Currie Chieftains, he was part of the fabric of the club, first as a player and later as a coach. His contribution went far beyond what happened on the pitch.
“He was someone who gave his time, energy and friendship freely, and was a valued and much-loved member of our club family.
“His sudden passing will be a tremendous shock to everyone who knew him, and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
“We will remember Ally with great affection and gratitude for everything he gave to our club. He will be sadly missed, but his contribution and the memories he created will remain part of the club for many years to come.”
Watsonians’ were particularly aware of the role played by Ally in turning out a generation of talent who went on to wear the maroon and white jersey.
A statement said: “Everyone at the Watsonian Football Club sends their deepest condolences to Elaine and Ally’s family, and to Currie Chieftains.
“Ally nurtured a generation of rugby talent at GWC, so many great players who have graced the field at Myreside and Malleny, as well as Murrayfield, and many of whom are currently playing for our respective First XVs. After Scott Hastings, there is a void in Edinburgh rugby which will never be filled.”
Indeed, as the news broke there was a feeling of numbness around the rugby community similar to that disbelieving feeling that greeted the passing of Scott Hastings.
Watsonians added: “There will be a minute’s silence to remember Ally before this weekend’s match between Watsonians and Heriot’s at Myreside.”
Edinburgh Rugby noted how Ally made his debut for Edinburgh in 1992, becoming cap #911, and was part of the first professional squad in 1996 before being named captain the following year.
“A giant of the game in the capital, Ally went on to become a stalwart of coaching at Currie and Director of Rugby at George Watson’s College, playing a key role in developing so many of the players who went on to wear the castle on their chest.”
And Scottish Rugby president Keith Wallace said: “His death has come as a huge shock and our thoughts and prayers are with Ally’s family, friends, all at Currie Rugby Club and the wider rugby community.”
Undoubtedly a minute’s silence or applause will be held before Currie’s game at Hawick on Saturday and it would not be surprising were part of his club’s facilities at Malleny Park to bear his name in due course such was the contribution of Ally Donaldson.
