Four decades of ‘The ‘Blues’: Heather Bonnar honoured as Community Hero

As part of the club’s ongoing initiative to honour the heartbeat of grassroots rugby, Heather is being recognised for four decades of selfless service to the “Blues.” From coaching and kit management to spearheading vital infrastructure projects, Heather embodies the spirit of the local game.

Ahead of the match, Heather shared her journey, the friends who have become family, and what it means to step out onto the Hive Stadium turf.

A Lifetime in the “Blues Family”

Heather’s association with Kirkcaldy RFC spans nearly 40 years, a journey that began when her husband first took to the field. Since then, she has held almost every title imaginable.

“I’ve had many roles,” Heather explains. “From ‘Aunty Heather’ and Weeblues Convenor to Coach, Child Protection Officer, and Tour Kit Manager. Last year, I even took on the role of Project Manager to see our new accessible toilet through from start to finish. I’m still ‘Aunty Heather’ today. I just love to help, and if I can’t do it myself, I’ll find someone who can.”

For Heather, the proudest moments haven’t just been about the scoreboard, but about watching the club’s next generation – including her own – rise through the ranks.

“Watching the club and my family grow has been everything. Seeing my boys go from the Weeblues to senior rugby, playing for the first time on the main pitch with a big crowd while I’m shouting ‘That’s my boys!’ – those are the moments that stick with you.”

The Heart of the Community

Kirkcaldy is more than just a rugby club to Heather; it’s a global network of friendship.

“Family plays a big part at Kirkcaldy. I’ve watched players move on to higher levels, but they always come back, often bringing their own kids. It’s fab to see. I’ve made friends from all over the world through this club, and I still go on holiday with many of them today.”

The support team

No volunteer works in a vacuum, and Heather is quick to highlight the “sidekicks” and mentors who have made her 40-year stint so memorable – specifically Director of Rugby Colin Parsons and the club’s resident joker, Stuart Oliver.

“If I could, I would box up what Colin Parsons has,” says Heather. “He’s been in the club for over 20 years, he’s the nicest human being, and nothing fazes him. Then there’s Stuart Oliver. He’s my sidekick. He’s a ‘get things done’ guy who is brilliant with funding and people, though he’s always mucking around and playing practical jokes!”

Delivering the match ball

As Edinburgh Rugby prepares to take on Gwalia Lightning, Heather views her role in the pre-match ceremony as a win for all club volunteers across Scotland.

“Being recognised as a volunteer is brilliant. There are loads of amazing volunteers at every club, and without them, we simply wouldn’t have clubs. I love that we are getting these opportunities at big games—presenting the match ball is a massive plus.”