Tuesday October 20th 2026
Edinburgh rugby coach Freddie Main
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
An Edinburgh rugby coach has published his first children’s book to help young readers build confidence and raise money for a charity supporting research into motor neuron disease (MND).
Freddie Main, who coaches the under-16s at George Watson’s College, has written Finn Faces His Fear for children aged seven to 12.
The illustrated story follows young rugby player Finn Rush and uses the sport to explore fear, self-belief and the courage to try something new.
A quarter of the book’s profits will go to the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, established by Scottish rugby legend Doddie Weir after he was diagnosed with MND.
With more than 30 years of playing and coaching experience, Freddie hopes the book will encourage conversations between children, parents, teachers and coaches about confidence and the challenges of growing up.
“After 19 years in education and decades coaching rugby, I’ve seen how fear can hold young people back – and how much difference it makes when someone believes in them,” he said.
“I’m passionate about helping people grow and wrote Finn Faces His Fear to help children see that being brave doesn’t mean never feeling scared; it means finding the confidence to give something a go.
“With 25% of the book’s profits supporting the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, I hope the story can do some good beyond its pages, too.”
Raised in Jedburgh in the Scottish Borders, Freddie spent 19 years in teaching, taking on roles including Head of Design and Technology, Housemaster and Assistant Headteacher.
His career combined creativity, practical problem-solving and pastoral care, giving him insight into the pressures young people face and the importance of encouragement and support.
Alongside his work at George Watson’s College, Freddie is the founder of Edinburgh-based specialist rugby coaching company Silver Fox Coaching.
He has coached a number of players who went on to play professionally and represent Scotland, including Fraser Brown, Jamie Dobie and Dave Cherry. He also guided Watsonians Women’s team to back-to-back Premiership titles.
Freddie hopes Finn Faces His Fear will be the first in a planned series called Rugby Rascals, using stories to teach children about teamwork, resilience, developing skills and building character.
“Rugby is the setting, but the message is for every child,” he said.
“I want young people to feel happy, confident and able to make a positive contribution in their own way. I have spent my career helping young people develop the confidence to face challenges and discover their strengths and I’m delighted to be able to bring these ideas to life in my first book.”
Finn Faces His Fear is available to buy through The Main Thing Publishing.
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