Maxton is new Hamilton Bulls skipper

Jun 11 2009 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

RICHIE MAXTON this week admitted it’s a real honour to have been made Hamilton Rugby Club captain and immediately set his sights on leading the Bulls back into Premier 2.

The 30-year-old was installed as captain after skipper Allan Dodds announced his intention to return to his hometown team Melrose, where his two brothers Douglas and Graeme play.

Maxton, a teacher at East Kilbride’s Calderglen High, reckons it’s a tough act to follow but he’s confident he can lead Hamilton back into club rugby’s second tier.

He said: “I’m delighted. I’ve played for Hamilton since I was about 12 years old, left to go to university and play at a slightly higher level and came back about three years ago.

“I love it here and it’s a real honour. Hamilton is a good club with a lot of good young boys coming through the ranks. Hopefully, we can do well this season and get back up to Premier 2.

“That’s definitely going to be a challenge but I think we’ve got the right coaches to do it and the young players who came in last season have got a season’s experience of playing in Premier 2 under their belts. Hopefully, we can use that to bounce back.”

There is a tinge of sadness about Allan Dodds leaving the club, but Richie said he fully understands his reasons. Dodds relocated to Glasgow to study at Caledonian University seven years ago but now wants to go home.

Richie said: “Doddsy was a great servant to the club, was here for seven years and was captain for two of those, and he was excellent.

“He inspired a really good team spirit, even last season when we were going through difficult times, and that’s testimony to Allan.

“I totally understand his reasons for going back to Melrose. We wish him all the best and thank him for his services to Hamilton Rugby Club.”

Coach Ian Morrison said it wasn’t a difficult choice to appoint Richie as captain.

He said: “Richie stuck out. He’s played for Scotland at club level and is vastly experienced. He’s one of our best players. Richie is a natural leader and I think he’ll be an excellent captain.”

On Allan Dodds’ departure, Ian said: “Allan has been a fantastic stalwart for the club and wanted another year to try to play at the highest level.

“I’m obviously disappointed because he’s leaving us when we’re in a bit of a situation but he certainly leaves with all the very best wishes ofeverybody here.

“I’m disappointed to lose him, but he has been a great servant to the club and I wish him every success.”