When Stevie Wilson stepped into his new role as Head of Rugby at Dollar Academy, it marked the beginning of a new chapter for one of Scotland’s most respected rugby schools. With a strong playing pedigree and proven high-performance coaching experience, Wilson is determined to build on Dollar’s proud tradition while shaping an ambitious future for the sport at the school.
A former age-grade international, Wilson represented Scotland at U16, U18 and U20 levels, including appearances in two U20 Six Nations tournaments and a Junior World Cup. His competitive drive and deep understanding of the game soon translated into a career in coaching and athletic development, most recently as Strength and Conditioning Coach with the Glasgow Warriors women’s team. He also played a key role in the progression of Scotland’s U16, U17 and U18 squads.
For Wilson, joining Dollar is not just a job, but a personal milestone. “Taking on the role of Head of Rugby at Dollar Academy is a genuine honour,” he says. “Dollar has a proud rugby tradition and to be given the responsibility to lead the programme here is something I don’t take lightly. It’s even more surreal when I think back to 2007 when I was part of the Bell Baxter team that beat Dollar in the Schools Cup Final. At that time, I never would have imagined I would be in a position like this -shaping the future of rugby at one of Scotland’s top schools.”
Wilson’s vision is clear: to ensure rugby at Dollar is the highlight of the school day. “My aim for the role is to build upon the strong foundations already in place and develop a programme where rugby is the best part of the school day. We want to ensure pupils at every level feel inspired and valued, equipping them with the skills and values to enjoy the sport.”
That journey starts from the ground up. At Dollar’s prep and junior school, pupils focus on developing movement and athletic skills to create a strong base for rugby. This feeds into a pathway designed to take players all the way through to the school’s senior teams, who compete at the top level in Scottish schools rugby.
The calibre of coaching at Dollar is another point of pride. Wilson has assembled a staff of experienced mentors, including Bob McKillop, Graeme Morrison, and Tim Swinson -all bringing international and age-grade expertise.
“Alongside our full-time staff, we are fortunate to have the expertise of Bob, Graeme and Tim,” Wilson adds. “Each brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for the school and the game.”
But while Dollar’s ambition is clear, Wilson stresses that rugby at the school is for everyone. “Whether a pupil plays for enjoyment or aspires to reach the highest levels of the game, our goal is to equip them with the skills, mindset and values of the game,” he says.
With Dollar Academy recently named The Sunday Times Scottish Independent School of the Year 2024 and boasting one of the widest co-curricular programmes in the country, Wilson is confident that the school’s unique balance of academics, pastoral care, and sport provides the perfect environment for young people to thrive. As the new season approaches, there’s little doubt that Wilson’s arrival signals an exciting new era for Dollar rugby – one rooted in tradition, but firmly focused on the future.
For more information visit www.dollaracademy.org.uk
