Rory Darge, born on February 23, 2000, in Edinburgh, Scotland, is a professional rugby union player who has made a significant impact in the sport as a flanker. Currently playing for Glasgow Warriors in the United Rugby Championship, Darge is also a key figure in the Scotland national team, where he serves as co-captain.
Rory Darge Early Life and Development
Darge's rugby journey began at North Berwick RFC, where he honed his skills before moving to the Edinburgh academy. His talent was evident from a young age; he made his mark in youth rugby by captaining the Scotland U20 team during the 2020 Six Nations. Darge's dedication and performance earned him recognition as a promising player within Scottish rugby.
Professional Career
Club Career
Darge signed his first professional contract with Southern Knights in July 2019, where he quickly made an impression, winning the Southern Knights Youth Player of the Year award in his debut season. In November 2020, he made his professional debut for Edinburgh Rugby against Leinster in the United Rugby Championship.
In April 2021, Darge transitioned to Glasgow Warriors, joining ahead of the 2021-22 season. His performances have been marked by dynamic play and strong defensive skills. Notably, during a match against Ulster in the 2024/25 BKT URC campaign, he recorded an impressive 39 tackles, showcasing his work rate and ability to influence games defensively.
International Career
Darge's international career began with a call-up to the Scotland squad for the 2021 Summer Internationals. He made his debut during the Six Nations match against Wales on February 12, 2022. Since then, he has become an integral part of the national team setup.
In preparation for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Darge was named in Scotland's squad and played a crucial role throughout the tournament. His leadership qualities were further recognized when he was appointed co-captain of Scotland for the upcoming 2024 Six Nations Championship alongside Finn Russell.
Playing Style and Strengths
Darge is known for his versatility as a flanker, combining physicality with agility and tactical awareness. Standing at 1.85 meters (6 feet 1 inch) and weighing approximately 98 kg (216 lbs), he possesses both size and speed that allow him to excel at both breakdowns and open play. His ability to read the game and make critical tackles has earned him accolades as one of Scotland’s rising stars.
Achievements
Throughout his career thus far, Darge has achieved several notable milestones:
- **Southern Knights Youth Player of the Year**: 2019
- **Scotland U20 Captain**: Led the team during the 2020 U20 Six Nations
- **Scotland National Team Debut**: February 12, 2022
- **Co-Captain of Scotland**: Appointed for the upcoming 2024 Six Nations Championship
Rory Darge Conclusion
Rory Darge's ascent from youth rugby to becoming a pivotal player for both Glasgow Warriors and Scotland exemplifies his talent and determination. As he continues to develop his game and take on leadership responsibilities within the national team, rugby fans can look forward to witnessing his contributions on both domestic and international stages. With his blend of skill and tenacity, Darge is set to become one of Scotland's key players in the years to come.
