Tributes to Selkirk RFC president Gus Boag

A popular and highly respected figure, Gus was appointed Selkirk’s president in July, since when he had worked tirelessly to further the interests of the club and its members.

The club’s website reported he had previously served as the club’s secretary from 2001-2004 and later played a leading role in setting up Selkirk RFC’s first club shop.

Gus took particular pleasure in this season’s successful campaigns by Selkirk’s 1st and ‘A’ XVs and, as usual, was on hand in the Philiphaugh Suite on Saturday afternoon to announce the club’s ‘man of the match’ awards.

“Everyone at the club is devastated by the news of Gus’ passing,” Selkirk RFC chairman Dennis Henderson told the website.

“It has come as a real shock to the whole Selkirk community, and the club’s deepest sympathies go out to Freda and the family.

“Gus was one of the club’s hardest and most conscientious workers, always ready to lend a hand or to give a word of encouragement.

“He was a great ambassador for the club and is going to be sorely missed by everyone at Philiphaugh.”

Messages of sympathy have been received from a wide range of clubs and individuals across the rugby spectrum.

Rory Bannerman, president of Hawick Rugby Club (Selkirk’s opponents at Philiphaugh on Saturday), said: “He was just himself on Saturday – kind, generous, gentlemanly, magnanimous and humorous.

“Gus was a model president to us all – a gentleman, a Souter. He will be a miss to us all.”

A minute’s silence is due to be held in Gus’ memory prior to this Saturday’s Tennent’s Premiership fixture between Selkirk and Currie at Philiphaugh.