Ayr Rugby is delighted to confirm that Scotland International and current Ayrshire Bulls assistant coach Peter Horne will be stepping into the head coaching role in the new year.
The 32-year-old is set to retire from playing with Scottish pro-side the Glasgow Warriors to move into the position on a full-time basis, effective from January 1st.
(Image – Pat MacArthur (L) and Horne (R) lifting the FOSROC Super6 Trophy in October)
Horne replaces former Warriors teammate and friend Pat McArthur, who led the Bulls to lift the inaugural FOSROC Super6 trophy earlier this year. Horne was successful in applying for head coach in March 2021. To allow him to finish his playing career, MacArthur took on the role with the understanding that Horne would take over in January 2022. Despite stepping back from the role MacArthur will remain involved with his boyhood club going forward.
Peter Horne is a well-known face among Scottish Rugby. Since making his Warriors debut in 2009 he has enjoyed a 12-year career at the top level, amassing 45 Scotland caps in the process. He joined the Ayrshire Bulls coaching set-up last year and was heavily involved in the recent Super6 success.
Speaking of the appointment, Ayr Rugby President Stewart Kerr said the following: ““We are delighted to see Peter move into the head coaching role with the bulls after impressing over the past year under Pat MacArthur.
“He brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience with him and we are positive for what the future has in store. Be it Ayr or the Bulls we have built a reputation on success, and I have no doubt that more will follow in the coming seasons.
“It would be remiss of me not to pass on my overwhelming thanks to Pat in all that he has done for Ayrshire rugby. In his season in charge, he’s put the Bulls ahead of the chasing pack, setting the benchmark for others to strive for”.
Horne becomes the third person to take the reins of the Ayrshire Bulls, with maiden coach Peter Murchie now in the support staff at the Glasgow Warriors, highlighting that bridging the gap between club and professional rugby isn’t reserved solely for players.