An attempt to introduce Rugby League to Moray has failed after three years with a project that attracted Awards4All funding closing down.
Moray Titans competed for three seasons before having to withdraw from competition this summer as they struggled to field a senior team.
The club decided to carry on training young players in the hope that they would once again be in a position to enter the national league next summer – but in a statement on their official web site this week had to admit defeat.
In a statement the club said: “Sadly, after completing three seasons the club found themselves in a situation at the start of 2014 where they were unable to field a team to compete.
“Having reviewed the strength of the club over the past two years it was felt that the interest in people wishing to play Rugby League at Open Age is just not high enough within the Moray area to sustain the club and therefore it will fold.”
The Titans story is in stark contrast to Aberdeen Warriors who set out on a similar path at the same time as the Moray club. The Warriors found immediate success, winning the division one title and grand final at the first time of asking – with similar success repeated each year since.
Amongst those expressing regrets at the closure of Moray Titans on their Facebook page was Mike Wallace, who said: “Sad news but credit to Adam (Harrison) and the rest of the committee over the last three years who put in a power of work.
“It was a phenomenally well run club but just needed a stronger player base. Well done, hope to see a moray club back in the fold soon.”
Titans acknowledged the support they had from main sponsor Tony’s Driving School and assistance received from Awards4All.
The club say that all equipment obtained through grant funding would be donated to other north-east based rugby clubs.