Edinburgh Rugby legend Ally Donaldson has died at the age of 60, prompting tributes describing him as a “cracking human being” and an “absolute 100% guy”.
Career and legacy
Donaldson made his debut for Edinburgh Rugby in 1992, becoming cap number 911, and was part of the club’s first professional squad in 1996 before being named captain the following year. He went on to serve as Director of Rugby at George Watson’s College for 36 years, retiring a few years ago.
Scottish Rugby posted a tribute noting that Donaldson “played a major role in the development of rugby talent in Scotland”. He is survived by his wife, four daughters and three grandsons.
Tributes from the rugby community
An Edinburgh Rugby spokesperson said: “Everyone at Edinburgh Rugby is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former club captain, Ally Donaldson. Ally made his debut for Edinburgh in 1992, becoming cap #911, and was part of the club's 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. Our thoughts are with Ally's family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.”
Roy Mack, a former colleague at George Watson’s College, told Scottish Rugby: “Ally was a cracking human being, an absolute 100% guy. He would routinely go the extra mile and then some, when it came to helping young players.”
Scottish Rugby President Keith Wallace added: “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.”
