GHA’s inspirational 1st XV captain Donald Malcolm, 29, has been forced into early retirement due to an ongoing neck injury. The former Hutchesons’ GS pupil and Scotland Age Grade cap begain playing senior rugby for GHA in 2004 and established himself as GHA’s first choice Hooker during the 2005/06 campaign before a spell with Glasgow Hawks. He overcame knee problems in his early career which forced him to take a break from the game before returning to GHA in 2010 where he has been a mainstay of the GHA pack ever since.
Donald’s uncomprising style and bullocking runs on the field as well as his outstanding leadership qualities earned him the respect of team mates and opponents alike. Whilst his presence on the field will be missed, Donald will be continuing as 1st XV Forwards Coach and will no doubt play a pivotal role in mentoring his successor from the crop of talented young Hookers coming through the club.