Coach Clunie grew up in the Scottish youth rugby system at Glenrothes RFC. He enjoyed an accomplished playing career at both Junior and Senior level in Scotland, England and the United States over a 20 year period; captaining senior teams at both Littleborough RUFC and Ledbury RFC in England before relocating to the US. After a brief stint with Super League side Potomac Athletic Club he led Winchester Rugby of the Virginia Rugby Union as player / coach to their first unbeaten season in 2005. He has experience playing front row (hooker), back row and fly half and was fortunate to be exposed to a variety of coaching techniques throughout his rugby career from a distinguished coaching tree. He has lived in Shaker Heights with his wife and family since 2011.