From Player to Mentor: Dr James Robson MBE’s Journey in Shaping the Future of Rugby

In 2024 After Six Nations Competition, Scottish Rugby’s chief medical officer Dr James Robson MBE will retire after 30 years in the sport.

Robson, who is also the national side’s team doctor, was appointed in 2005 and has been a mainstay with Scotland and the British and Irish Lions teams since then.

According to the Scottish Rugby website, external, he said: “This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life.” Over the last 30 years, I have given the sport and Scottish rugby everything I could and am truly grateful for the wonderful experiences and lifelong friendships I have made as a result.

“I have always wanted to do the best job I could and this role has been my life. I’ve often said caring for the players is like looking after a second family and none of this could have been possible without the support I’ve had from my own family through my wife Christine and daughters, Eleanor and Emma.

“Rugby is a fantastic sport and has given me a huge amount, which I hope I have been able to repay over the years. It is vital we continue to look after everyone who plays our great game, at every level, and I know there are many people across the rugby world working hard to ensure they do.”

In 2017, Robson was inducted into the Scottish Rugby Hall of Fame, and he was awarded an MBE in the 2018 New Year’s Honours.