Twins Josh and James Mackenzie are embracing a unique opportunity to connect with their Scottish heritage while honing their rugby skills through the annual exchange programme between Kingswood College and Glenalmond College in Scotland.
The brothers, who are in grade 11 and play first-team rugby for Kingswood, are among a select group chosen for the programme. Kingswood pupils spend September and October at Glenalmond, while Glenalmond pupils visit Kingswood in May and June.
James, a utility back, and Josh, a flanker, have been training under the Glasgow Warriors, a professional team in the United Rugby Championship, through Glenalmond’s rugby programme.
“Playing first-team rugby with my twin brother is something I don’t take for granted,” James said.
We’ve grown up training together, pushing each other, and now we get to represent our school side by side
“We’ve grown up training together, pushing each other, and now we get to represent our school side by side.”
He described the programme as an incredible learning experience, offering access to top-tier players and coaches.
“Being around players and coaches at that level is inspiring, and it motivates us to keep pushing ourselves.
“I’m looking forward to improving my skills, understanding different styles of play and seeing how top-level rugby operates day to day.”
Josh echoed his brother’s enthusiasm, highlighting the programme’s challenges and rewards.
“It honestly means the most to be part of an amazing rugby programme run by Mr Ranger,” he said, referring to Kingswood’s director of sport, Murray Ranger.
“The programme may be challenging and difficult, but at the end it is so rewarding and has taught us resilience and determination.”
The twins have observed distinct differences between rugby in SA and Scotland.
“Rugby in South Africa has higher intensity and physicality, but in Scotland, the conditions and structure are more profound,” Josh said.
James added: “The game in South Africa tends to be very physical and forward-oriented, with a strong focus on power, set pieces and direct running.
“Here in Scotland, the game can be faster and more open. There’s often more focus on tactical kicking, quick transitions and using the width of the field effectively.”
The exchange programme has also allowed the twins to explore their Scottish roots, inherited from their father, Andy.
“It’s been an honour and a privilege to see how they have grown through the years into fine young gentlemen,” Andy said.
“To see both grab the opportunity to go on an exchange programme to Scotland and experience rugby in a new environment is really special.
“More than anything, I’m proud of the way they’re embracing the adventure together as brothers, and representing their school and family with such passion.”
Their mother, Sian, praised their work ethic off the field.
“They have worked incredibly hard on their grades and now maintain strong averages and also excel in subjects they really enjoy,” she said.
“We know they’ll do well in anything they do because these are boys who never give up!”
The twins have attracted interest from UK clubs, with potential opportunities to play for the Scotland Under-20 side in future.
However, they remain focused on the present.
“Our focus is just on working hard, improving as players and taking things one step at a time,” they said.
“When the time comes to make those decisions, we’ll approach it with careful thought and gratitude for the opportunities we have.”
Off the field, they aim to immerse themselves in Scottish culture, meet new people and grow as individuals.
Ranger said: “The Mackenzie brothers, with their Scottish heritage, have been identified by the Scottish Rugby Union as potential talents.
“By going on exchange to Glenalmond College, this has opened the door for them to train in the pathway systems in Scotland.”
Four other Kingswood pupils — Nepo Kao, Paul Bassett, Aeryn Putzier and Diya Harjevenv — are also participating in the programme.
Headmaster Leon Grové said: “Kingswood College strives to help pupils attain their full potential, and opportunities to experience playing sport and attending school in different countries help them to mature and thrive.”
Daily Dispatch
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