The Native Agency has taken over the management and franchise of the Steelers Rugby Club, the touring team established in 2004. The Steelers play every year in the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby 7’s International Invitational tournament.

The Steelers Rugby Club is the innovative creation of businessman Colin Bone and Scotland legend Andy Nicol. The Club was born during the 2003 Dubai 7’s when it became evident that there was a distinct lack of Scottish-based teams participating in the event. On returning to Scotland Colin believed that it was his duty to restore this balance and so, together with Andy the former Scotland and Bath Captain, he formed the Steelers RFC as a one off touring team to play in the Dubai tournament.

Following discussions in August 2007, Colin and Andy teamed up with The Native Agency, the international strategic marketing consultancy, and have now signed an agreement that sees Native taking on the ongoing franchise of the Steelers with a goal of taking the club forward. Both previous principals will retain an involvement with the club, and the new team aims to maintain its Scottish nucleus whilst continuing the tradition of the club by introducing an International influence. The intent is that the Steelers will become regular winners whilst staying true to their history as an exciting touring team.

Managing the Steelers at the Dubai 7’s this year is Scott Hastings, whose track record as being one of Scotland’s most capped players coupled with his reputation as a world-class centre and twice British Lion will further build confidence in the team as they enter 2007’s tournament.

The Native Agency will take over global management of the Steelers and using their Dubai based office are already putting together plans to take the Steelers beyond Dubai to other tournaments around the world and also to bring the team home to Scotland. The Native Agency will also take over the production and management of the team website www.steelersrugby.com.