Glasgow signing of Dunbar bolsters pro-team policy

THE renewed push by the Scottish professional teams to hand opportunities to native young talents was further underlined yesterday when Glasgow confirmed the signing of Alex Dunbar.

Much work is going on behind the scenes to improve the quality of the Scottish club games in an effort to close the gap between the Premier One level and the professional game, and the move of Dunbar, a 19-year-old centre-cum-wing from Selkirk to Glasgow is a significant boost.

Dunbar came through the Annan ranks, but moved to Philiphaugh in 2008 to pursue his ambition to play professional. He has been involved with the SRU national academy and played for Scotland at age-grade and sevens levels, and he made his pro debut for Glasgow in the 25-13 win over Ulster at Ravenhill in December. A 6ft 2in, 15st 6lb player, he has impressed Glasgow coach Sean Lineen not only with his rugby ability, but also his attitude and work-rate. Dunbar has signed a two-year deal, two weeks before he turns 20, and he acknowledged that it was the result of a lot of hard work.

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He said: "I've always thought about earning a pro contract with the Warriors when coming through the age-grades in Glasgow so it's great to finally do it. Winning in Ulster was a great achievement. I was just delighted to be part of the team at that level and I've thoroughly enjoyed training with the squad this year. But the Academy has been great for me and I'd like to give a special thanks to my coaches Alun Powell and Bryan Easson who have put in a lot of work with me."

Dunbar becomes the 21st National Academy player to gain a professional contract, and the 19th to join one of Scotland's pro teams since November 2007.