If you were at Oriam for our big event on 28 December you can’t have failed to notice the dynamo directing operations at the centre of our women’s team – Rachel Law first took on the captaincy five years ago, so a magic milestone to mark by finding out a bit more about her!
How did you become involved with @HBMBs?
“I think I saw something on Instagram about @Hearts and Balls MB setting up a women’s team and I reacted to it. Then I got a message about training starting, went along, and had a brilliant time. The rest is history!”
What did you know about @H+B at the time?
“I knew nothing about the charity before I joined in. I had heard about it but didn’t know what the charity did and didn’t know anyone who had benefited from its work
“Since being involved, I’ve learned about the amazing work the charity carries out around Scotland, helping people who have been affected by life-changing injuries sustained whilst playing the game.
“One of the most recent initiatives the charity has worked on, has been helping rugby clubs around Scotland get kitted out with defibrillators – you’ll have seen photos on social media – which is just brilliant.”
When did you step into the captain’s role?
“It was an honour to take on captaincy back in 2021. I was a bit shocked when I was first asked but I jumped at the opportunity.
“It’s always amazing to pull on a @Hearts + Balls MB shirt and represent the charity, but even more special when you get to lead the team.
“We’ve had girls from all over the world join the squad and showcase women’s rugby for the charity, so it’s been a real pleasure to get to captain them.”
How do you fit training around work and life in general?
“So the best thing about @Hearts + Balls MB is the closeness of the men’s and women’s squads. We train all together which is brilliant for both squads as we get to train at match intensity and the calibre of players we have training, ensures the standard is always so high.
“For me, juggling work as a vet, rugby for my club team Watsonians and general life is hard but I somehow manage! Hearts and Balls training is so much fun so it’s never a chore!”
Can you give us an overview of season 2025?
“Last season was great for the team – lots of local tournaments in Scotland, including Melrose which is always a big occasion. We had a good few wins at tournaments in Scotland, most memorable for me was Currie, in the torrential rain which was interesting weather for 7s!
“We also loved the Christmas memorial game at Oriam. This year the women’s game was also in memory of Ian McLauchlan, which was a brilliant day for the charity, raising money and awareness of the amazing work the charity does on a weekly basis. To get the win was the icing on the cake.”
Sevens or fifteens??
“I personally prefer 7s but I know many of the others will argue otherwise.”
What’s in store for the squad this year?
“A hugely exciting summer is planned for the team, with a few tournaments down south on the cards too. We’re looking forward to retaining titles and aiming to claim some more!!”
Photos: Sheila Tett
