Aberdeen Grammar Rugby Club players Stevie Aitken (Balmedie, pictured) and Ashleah McCulloch (Westhill) received the news they had been waiting for when they were informed on Friday (8 May) that they had both been included in the 26 player squad for the Scotland Under 20s that will be heading to Japan at the end of the month for the Under 20 Rugby World Cup.

Playing at centre, Ashleah had a very successful 6 Nations Tournament back in March where he produced some outstanding performances as the Scots enjoyed one of their best tournaments at this age-grade.

Injury robbed Stevie of a place in the squad and this proved to be doubly disappointing as he missed out at Under-19 level the season before. However, though great determination on his part and focused support from GIS, particulalry through physiotherapy and strength and conditioning, Stevie worked his way back to full-fitness just in time to be able to be in the frame for selection. His selection is just reward for all his efforts.

The Scots face Samoa in their opening pool match on 5 June, followed by a clash with England on 9 June and complete their pool match on 13 June with a game against hosts Japan.