“The pitch will never be quite the same without you kid.” Tributes paid to student rugby player

MEMBERS of the Stirling community have been mourning the tragic passing of Eilidh McNab, who lost her life in an accident at Bracklinn Falls near Callander over the summer.

Eilidh was a valued and much-loved member of two University Sport teams, Women’s Rugby and Touch Rugby, as well as local teams such as Stirling County Women and Grangemouth.

Women’s Rugby paid a touching tribute to Eilidh, posting to their Facebook,

“Eilidh was a great friend to every one of us. She was always looking out to make sure everyone was included, and she was a true friend to everyone. Eilidh’s presence will not only be missed on the pitch but off the pitch too.

“We are honoured to have shared the pitch with Eilidh. She was a blessing in our lives, and we will forever carry her in our hearts. You will be missed, Always.”

Eilidh was named as the Most Valuable Player of 2019 for Women’s Rugby, which the team describe as “a small token to just how valuable she was to the team over the years.”

Members of Women’s Rugby described Eilidh as one of the most passionate on the team, confident, and that she helped boost the confidence of other players on the team.                 

 They said that Eilidh was a great leader, and that the structure and support that she brought to the team will be missed.

“She was the life and soul of the team, the glue that held us together.”

Sports President Gill Thayne paid tribute to Eilidh and offering condolences to her family and friends on behalf of the Sports Union.

“Eilidh will be remembered for a long time as a strong player with fantastic talent. However, it’s what she brought off the pitch that will be missed the most. The impact she had on others was second to none. She cared so much about others and did a lot for everyone else that was above and beyond what was ever required of her. There is now a hole in the sports union heart without her. She was family.

“My thoughts are with Eilidh’s teammates, friends and most importantly family. The Sports Union will continue to honour her.”

Stirling County Women’s Rugby remembered Eilidh as a “strong and talented” player, paying tribute to her talent as a rugby player.

“Our thoughts are with Eilidh’s friends, family and team-mates, past and present.

“The pitch will never be quite the same without you kid.”

One step being taken to honour Eilidh is a donation to Back Onside, a charity supported by Eilidh, a just giving page has been set up. If you wish to donate please use the link that can be found on the Women’s Rugby Facebook page.

Support for anyone in need is available from the University.

Featured Image Credit: Daily Record