The fourth Scottish Building Society Inclusive Festival took place on Saturday 10 May 2025. There was an amazing turnout, with nearly 100 players from five clubs coming together to play on the iconic Hive Stadium pitch. It was a brilliant atmosphere, and every team gave it their all with Edinburgh Rugby Inclusive Team coming out on top. To make the day extra special, Edinburgh Rugby stars Luke Crosbie and Harry Paterson came along to meet and chat with the players.

Brian Smith, Edinburgh Rugby Inclusive Team said “It's never lost on everyone here how much the support of Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish Building Society benefits us. This is the first time the tournament’s been held in the Hive, seeing how much it means to all the teams to play on the same pitch as they watch the pro team play on is brilliant, it means the world to them.”

During the sell out Edinburgh Rugby v Ulster clash, the winning team took part in a lap of honour in front of a bumper crowd cheering them on and helping them shine a spotlight on the importance of inclusive rugby. Scottish Building Society CEO Paul Denton presented them with a trophy which they proudly held up to the crowd, it was a moment that really captured what rugby is all about.

Paul Denton, CEO of Scottish Building Society, summed it up perfectly “It was my pleasure to present Edinburgh Rugby Inclusive Team with their trophy, you can really see how much it means to the players and their families. The event is a brilliant way for players from teams across Scotland to come together and showcase their talents in a safe and positive environment, with many friendships being made along the way.”

Through our partnership with Edinburgh Rugby we’ve launched some brilliant initiatives, including the inclusive rugby festival and our walking touch tournament showing that everyone can get involved in the sport, no matter their age or skill level. And with our recent extension of the sponsorship to back Edinburgh Rugby Women, we’re proud to keep pushing for a more inclusive sport and to inspire the next generation of players.