Glasgow Warriors have terminated Rufus McLean’s contract with immediate effect after the Scotland international pleaded guilty to domestic abuse charges.
The Scotstoun club suspended the 22-year-old winger after he admitted domestic abuse charges at Edinburgh Sheriff Court last week.
He will be sentenced next month and, following an internal disciplinary hearing in conjunction with Scottish Rugby, Glasgow revealed on Tuesday that they had sacked the player on grounds of “gross misconduct” and “breach of contract”.
McLean, who was born in the United States and made 26 appearances for Glasgow, has the right to appeal.
A statement from the club said: “Glasgow Warriors fully acknowledges the seriousness of domestic abuse and recognises the impact it has on the mental and physical welfare of those affected by it.
“The club was already working with Police Scotland to support and promote its male education campaign don’t be THAT GUY and further workshops are planned in the coming weeks.”
Warriors managing director Al Kellock said McLean’s actions could not be condoned.
We have taken this matter extremely seriously. We are committed to ensuring our players continue to be positive role models and recognise the privileged positions they hold— Al Kellock
“Glasgow Warriors prides itself on being a family-centred club and are proud to always represent our fans and our city,” he explained.
“Rufus admitted domestic abuse and his actions cannot be condoned which has resulted in his employment with Glasgow Warriors ending.
“We have taken this matter extremely seriously. Sadly, with any crime there is a victim and as a club we want to acknowledge the impact on the young woman involved.
“We are committed to ensuring our players continue to be positive role models and recognise the privileged positions they hold.
“We found the recent work with Police Scotland on male education to be hugely instructive and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue working with them in the near future.”
McLean’s actions appear to have closed the door on him being able to play professional rugby again in Scotland after Glasgow’s stance was endorsed by Scottish Rugby chief executive Mark Dodson.
McLean has been capped three times at international level since scoring two tries on his debut against Tonga in October 2021.
“I fully support the approach taken by Glasgow Warriors in ending Rufus McLean’s employment with the club,” Dodson said.
“There is no place in today’s society for any form of abuse and his actions have impacted not only his club and rugby in Scotland but more importantly the life of his former partner, which is both sad and regrettable.
“We will continue to take a strong stand against any behaviour which either breaks the law or brings our game and its values into disrepute.
“We are fortunate to have many role models across our sport who inspire others and have earned our wider respect.
“This is not a position we take for granted and we are committed to ensuring our standards on and off the pitch remain to the highest level.”
