Kate P (S6) is taking her rugby talents from Aberdeenshire across the Atlantic after securing a merit and sports scholarship to study at Queen’s University of Charlotte, a competitive NCAA Division I sporting environment in North
Carolina, USA, where she will major in sports management.
Since
joining Robert Gordon’s College in S5 from Inverurie Academy, Kate has enjoyed
a standout rise through the rugby ranks. Training throughout the season with
both the 1st and 2nd XV squads, she has shown relentless commitment to
improving her game, with her efforts in the gym and on the pitch earning her
selection for the Caledonia U18 regional squad and paving the way for her US
scholarship.
Her journey
took a decisive turn in January 2025 during a school visit from MIT students,
which inspired her to explore study and sporting opportunities in the USA.
Building on her recent rugby success, she later attended a rugby trial with FirstPoint USA, a leading
international sports scholarship agency, resulting in a merit and sports
scholarship offer from Queens University of Charlotte.
Planning
for her move to the USA in July 2026, Kate shared: “Getting awarded a
scholarship to a university in America felt really rewarding, reflecting the
support of my coaches, teammates, and family. Although I started rugby with
Garioch RFC at 16 after 11 years of competitive gymnastics, my confidence grew
through hard work and training with the 1st and 2nd XV at RGC.
“A key
turning point came when I was called up to the Caledonian U18 girls’ regional
squad after initially not being selected, which led to captaincy and Coaches’
Player of the Year, despite the challenges of balancing school and rugby. I’m
excited but nervous about moving, but I’m looking forward to playing at a high
level, meeting new people, and gaining independence in a completely new
environment.”
Mr Riddle,
1st XV Head Coach, said: “I am absolutely delighted to see Kate will continue
her rugby journey at Queens University of Charlotte. She has trained all season
with the 1st and 2nd XV squads both in the gym and on the pitch to continually
develop her game which resulted in selection for Caledonia U18s and ultimately
the opportunity to go and study and play rugby in the USA. She’s worked
extremely hard to get this opportunity and I have no doubt that she will
continue to grow and excel over in America! Congratulations and good luck Kate!”
Mr McKay, Head of Rugby, commented: “I am so happy to hear Kate will be taking up this exciting opportunity in the USA for her rugby. She has been a tremendous role model for rugby at RGC, helping coach the Girls U14 programme and the P5 team. She has been a standout performer in club and regional rugby, and I look forward to hearing how she progresses in years to come. All the best Kate!”
Mrs Smith, Head of Senior School, added: “It has been a pleasure to watch Kate’s sporting career develop over the past two years, with her dedication and talent driving consistent progress and success at every level. Kate’s success reflects her determination, resilience and drive to seize every opportunity, qualities that will serve her well as she takes the next step in her rugby career. We wish her every success and look forward to watching her post-RGC journey.”
Since joining Robert Gordon’s College in S5, Kate has benefited from the school’s supportive network, flexible timetabling, and access to additional S6 courses, which have broadened her academic horizons. Studying Sports Leadership, Psychology, and Business Management has helped shape her university course interests. She has also particularly valued Music Technology and choir, which have allowed her to develop her practical, hands-on skills. Alongside her academic studies, she has contributed actively to the wider school community by helping to coach Primary 5 pupils and supporting girls’ rugby in the senior school, as well as filming home games for the 1st XV to support VEO analysis and post-match reviews. These experiences have played to her strengths, enabling her to take on leadership roles and further develop her project management skills.
A dynamic and versatile back, Kate has gained recognition through back-to-back Caledonia U18 selections, Player of the Year, Team Captaincy, and Pathway Athlete status, alongside experience with Garioch RFC and the Caledonia Outlaws. Aspiring to a professional and international career, she is focused on continuing her development, performing at the highest level, and enjoying the game. She is committed to improving physically and technically, earning game time, contributing to her team, and balancing sport with her studies while gaining valuable experience at a high level.
Encouraging younger players, Kate highlighted: “Go for it and don’t let doubt hold you back. Rugby can feel intimidating, especially in a sport long seen as male-dominated, but that’s exactly why more girls need to step in and challenge those stereotypes. The game has come a long way, with more opportunities and recognition than ever, and every new player helps it grow even further. Stay committed, work hard, and keep showing up, your confidence will build with your skills. And no matter your age, it’s never too late to start, I’m proof of that. Most importantly, enjoy it. Rugby isn’t just a sport, it’s the friendships and experiences you gain along the way.”