Eric Milligan, the former Glasgow Warriors hooker, has returned to his previous club Glasgow Hawks in a move that signals Hawks’ determination to return to the top flight of club rugby.

Following four seasons playing at Glasgow Hawks, Eric Milligan was signed as a professional player with the Warriors in 2006 at the age of 25, where he was recognised as a dynamic and influential member of the squad.

He chose to leave the professional set up earlier this year to take up a full-time post as Head of PE at St Columbus School in Kilmacolm and has been sought after by a number of west of Scotland clubs since then.

Peter Wright, Director of Rugby at Glasgow Hawks, said, “Having Eric in our squad for next season gives us a real boost. His influence on the pitch cannot be underestimated but his attitude off the pitch is just as important and will be invaluable to our squad.”

Eric Milligan said, “I am looking forward to rejoining Glasgow Hawks. I enjoyed four very successfully seasons at the Club before turning professional and hope to help them return to winning ways”.

“Being signed with the Warriors was a fantastic opportunity for me. I worked and learnt from world class players and developed a deeper understanding of the game.”

“Being part of Glasgow Hawks again not only allows me to play great club rugby every week but it means being part of a club with real ambition and commitment to the long-term success of club rugby in Scotland – something I believe is absolutely essential for the future of the game.”

Kenny Baillie, Chief Executive of Glasgow Hawks, said, “Everyone at the Club will be delighted that Eric has chosen to return to Glasgow Hawks as he is a hugely influential player on and off the pitch. His leadership qualities are second to none and his drive and enthusiasm embody what this club is all about.”

“The introduction of the new British and Irish Cup is evidence that P1 rugby is at last on the road to recovery and Glasgow Hawks not only support this, but we want to be a part of it and bringing Eric back to the Club is the first step in our journey to play against some of the best club sides in Britain and Ireland.”

This article was posted on 2-Jun-2009, 11:21 by Hugh Barrow.