Post-Placement Catch-Up: Fin Ronnie
Oval15 recently caught up with Fin Ronnie following his move to France, where the Scottish second rower joined Stade Aurillacois ahead of the 2026–27 season.
Fin’s journey to France
Fin joined Oval15.com with the ambition of securing a professional opportunity in a high-performance environment as he continued his pursuit of a career at the professional level.
That opportunity came in France, with Fin joining Stade Aurillacois in the French Pro D2 ahead of the new season.
Before making the move, Fin was representing Scotland U20s at the 2026 U20 Six Nations, adding international experience to an already developing career.
Settling into pre-season
Fin arrived in France at the beginning of July to begin pre-season with Stade Aurillacois.
For a young player making the move into a new country, club and rugby environment, pre-season has provided an opportunity to adapt to a different style of rugby while getting to know his new teammates and surroundings.
Season underway
Fin made his French Espoirs Elite debut on 12 September, coming up against Stade Toulousain Espoirs.
We caught up with Fin to find out how he’s settling in and how his first match went.
How did your first game go?
“The first game was disappointing. Losing in the last minute was tough. But despite the result, the experience has been a positive one so far.”
How are you finding life at the club?
“My teammates are all very good lads, and the senior players have been great too. It’s definitely different to back home, but I’m enjoying it and feel like I’m settling in well.”
How’s the French coming along?
“It’s been good learning French. I feel like I’m unconsciously trying to mix it into normal conversations, which will help me learn faster.”
Aside from rugby, what have you enjoyed about your time in France?
“French culture is really nice and really chilled away from rugby, which is good for switching off. It’s a nice part of the world to live.”
Despite the tough last-minute defeat to Stade Toulousain Espoirs, Fin has made a positive start to life in France and is now looking forward to building on his first appearance and continuing his development throughout the season.
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