Celebrating our fans: James Leeson to present match ball at Ulster

15 May 2025

Edinburgh Rugby is thrilled to announce long-standing supporter James Leeson will have the honour of delivering the match ball ahead of tomorrow night’s crucial BKT United Rugby Championship clash against Ulster at a sold-out Hive Stadium.

This special moment is part of the club’s Fan Appreciation Night — a dedicated celebration of the unwavering support that makes the Edinburgh Rugby community so special. James was nominated for this honour by his brother, David, in recognition of his unshakeable support and selfless care.

David, a fellow Edinburgh fan who lives with secondary progressive multiple sclerosis and uses a wheelchair, spoke movingly about the profound impact James has had on his life.

In his moving nomination, David shared: “My brother is a huge Edinburgh fan. I’m confined to a wheelchair and have secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. He has helped me with my care and has supported me through some quite difficult and dark times.

“Life is difficult for me, and he has been an enormous help and support to me. I couldn’t have made it this far without him. He has supported Edinburgh as a season ticket holder for years now, attending games home and away; his time away at the games provides him valuable downtime and relaxation from helping and caring for me.

“I want to thank him by nominating him for his care, help, and support. He’s a huge Edinburgh supporter, and this means the world to him.”

When James heard the news, he was understandably surprised and deeply touched by his brother’s incredible thoughtfulness.

“I was very surprised that my brother had nominated me, and to be honest, he is a bit of a joker, so I thought he was winding me up!” James chuckled.

“I am very humbled and touched that he thought of me for this experience and am now very much looking forward to it.”

James’s loyalty to Edinburgh Rugby spans nearly two decades, with countless matches attended both at home and on the road.

“I have been a season ticket holder at Edinburgh Rugby for 19 years. I have supported them, both home and away, along with my family,” James explained. “Having been a rugby player myself, I have enjoyed watching the club evolve, and it is a great honour to deliver the match ball for such a crucial game.”

Edinburgh Rugby is immensely proud to recognise James’s unwavering support and the remarkable bond he shares with his brother, David.

We look forward to welcoming James onto the Hive Stadium pitch tomorrow night and celebrating the incredible dedication of all our fans.