My Merchiston Journey
“I want to be in that Castle…. oohh Merchiston is wonderful.”
Dear Parents,
As I drove through the gates of Merchiston for the first time, I never imagined I would be good enough to work in such a prestigious environment. After my interview, I turned to Rob Moffat and said, “I don’t fit into this place.” He responded in his usual manner: “Nonsense, Rod, that’s exactly why you need to work here.” In that moment I thought, aye, okay… let’s give it a crack. Stepping out of my comfort zone turned out to be the best thing I ever did, and I am so grateful to Merchiston for giving me the opportunity to grow in ways I never thought possible. I owe so much to Merchiston for my own personal development.
It took me a wee while to settle into my new surroundings, and for the boys to work out what I was all about. But once we found our stride, we thrived together in the most incredible environment you could ever imagine. Rugby is in the DNA here; it’s woven into the fabric of the place. The boys would run through brick walls just to pull on the famous jersey. People talk about legacy and culture, at Merchiston, it simply oozes out of the Castle. We never have to push the boys to attend the gym, training, or analysis sessions. They turn up in their masses for the chance to represent the School.
I have loved every minute of my 12-year journey. I’ve made lifelong friends and memories I will cherish forever. I always say you are only as good as the people around you, and over the years I have been supported by the very best. I genuinely believe we have one of the strongest sports departments in the country, punching well above our weight in so many areas. I love how boys, staff, and parents have become friends, and I’ll hold those connections close for life. I will always be part of the Merchiston family, and I can’t wait to be back on the side-lines supporting (a little less stressed ha!). I have many people to thank, and I’ll speak to them individually.
I now feel the time is right for me to take on a new challenge. To be clear, it was never going to be at another school, as nothing could ever compare to what we have here. This move also gives me the chance to see more of my own family as they are growing up fast. After more than 25 years working in Edinburgh and 17 years in independent education, I’m following my heart and heading back home to be the Pathway and Game Development Manager for the Scottish Rugby Union in the Borders and East Lothian region, exactly where it all began for me.
I’m extremely excited and motivated to give back to the area that shaped me and so many others. I am passionate about strengthening the Borders by inspiring others and unearthing new talent. I feel a genuine sense of pride in taking on this new role, and I am well aware there is plenty of work to be done. I can’t wait to reconnect with old friends in the area and begin planning how we move our programmes forward. I know there is a great deal of experience and creativity within our region, so please do feel free to get in touch. I am really keen to listen and hear people’s views on how we move forward together.
At Merchiston, it was never about chasing Scottish Cup wins or producing the next Scottish superstar. Any successful organisation is driven by a clear and powerful 'why'. My 'why' was built into me from a young age. All I have ever wanted is the opportunity to give back what my mentors: May Sinclair, Grant McKenzie, Greig Oliver, Grant McKelvey and Rob Moffat gave to me.
My motivation has always been simple: to make our boys better people, and to be part of something where they feel happy, safe, and genuinely cared for. When you get that right, everything else takes care of itself. With my experiences and passion, I know I am the right person to help further develop our future Scottish Rugby players.
I will really miss driving through the gates, walking out to the pitches, planning with my coaches, and spending time with my friends. But nothing compares to the feeling of watching our boys play the Merchiston Way, giving absolutely everything for their brother beside them and for our school.
I feel incredibly lucky and proud to have been the Director of Rugby at such a historic school, and it warms my heart to know I have added some positive value to the rich legacy of Merchiston Castle School.
I won’t be a stranger. Please keep in touch and I’ll see you all soon on the side of the pitches.
Roddy Deans Director of Rugby