We’re a group of former Scotland International 7 aside rugby players, and we’re coming together for our mate, Gavin Lowe.

7 a-side rugby was invented in Scotland, and if you followed Scotland 7s, you’ll know Gavin as one of our country’s greats - the second-highest points scorer of all time, a deadly kicker, and the most naturally talented player in the squad. We trained with him, travelled with him, and saw first-hand the commitment he gave to the jersey every single day.

When the World 7s program was radically changed to accommodate the Olympic Games Scotland’s independent squad had to be scrapped in favour of the new Great Britain model to allow participation in the Games, and Gavin was one of the players who slipped quietly out of the game. Already carrying serious injuries - arthritic ankles, and pain that had been growing worse each season - there was no contract and as a result no ongoing support. For someone who had given years of service, like many professional players at the end of their careers it felt like he was simply forgotten.

It’s hard not to reflect on what contributed to the state of his body. Gav played professionally for over ten years and, like all of us, trained day in day out on a variety of surfaces including an increasing reliance on artificial pitches. There is considerable evidence that those surfaces take a considerable toll on joints, ankles and hips and – particularly as the football Ravenscraig facility we trained on was only re-laid and ‘World Rugby Certified’ in our final year of training - it’s impossible to ignore the impact they may have had on where Gav finds himself today.

Out of the spotlight, his health has declined severely. By the age of just 30, both Gavin’s hips have deteriorated to the point of needing replacement. Gavin is faced with being a young dad who can’t even run around the garden with his kids because even walking is a struggle.

Earlier this year Gavin had to pay £10,000 out of his own pocket to have one hip replaced just to make life bearable. He is still waiting on the NHS for the other operation, rehab, and the long road back to something like a normal life.

We have engaged with Rugby Players Scotland (the Players’ Association) who have worked with Scottish Rugby and other bodies within the sport to find ways to help Gavin but unfortunately his particular circumstances mean that options are very limited. We don’t want to see our teammate and friend fight this battle alone. Gav put his body on the line for his country and for us, and now it’s our turn to stick up for him.

We’re asking you - rugby fans, friends, and anyone moved by his story - to help us raise funds so Gavin can cover his medical costs, get back on his feet, and enjoy the family life he deserves.

Every donation, no matter the size, will make a real difference. Let’s give something back to a man who gave so much.

Thank you,

Gav’s teammates

Jamie Farndale

Max McFarland

Sam Pecquer

Ally Miller

Femi Sofolarin

Kaleem Baretto

Robbie Fergusson

Jordan Edmunds

Freddie Owsley

Harvey Elms

Nick McLennan

Damien Hoyland

Lee Jones

Grant Hughes

Glen Bryce

Dougie Fife

Jimmy Johnstone

Ross McCann

Nyle Godsmark

Scott Wight

Mark Robertson

Scott Riddell