History

Ross-on-Wye Rugby Club was founded in 1873, making it one of the oldest rugby clubs in England. Early matches were played on Stock Meadow, located behind the Ross Rowing Club, and players and supporters would gather afterwards at the New Inn on Broad Street. These early decades established the club as a central part of the town’s sporting life.

Rugby activities were suspended during the war years, but the club reformed for the 1947–48 season. A donation of ten shillings from Midland Bank helped restart operations — arguably the club’s first sponsorship. Friendly fixtures resumed under President Major Alfrey, with the team captained by well known local character “Spider” Davis. Many matches were played against Forest of Dean sides, along with regular cross border fixtures in Wales, helping rebuild the club’s competitive spirit.

As the club continued to develop, Ross Sports Centre was established, and facilities were shared with the town’s cricket and football clubs. The second XV played home games at both Ross Grammar School’s Hildersley field and the paddock at Greytree. This period saw the club expand its playing base and strengthen its ties within the local sporting community.

The 1960s brought new competitive opportunities with the introduction of the Templar Trophy — a home and away competition featuring local teams such as Malvern, Ledbury, Tewkesbury, Pershore and Ross. The club’s close proximity to the Forest of Dean also led to an invitation to compete in the Forest Cup, where Ross faced strong opposition from Drybrook, Cinderford and Berry Hill. These competitions helped raise the club’s profile and sharpen its competitive edge.

During the 1970s, Ross continued to field two senior teams, and a third XV — known as the Wolfhounds — was formed through the enthusiasm of club stalwarts Brian and Derek Woolf. Training took place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings under makeshift lighting at Ross Sports Centre, with team selection (and a few well earned pints) held at the White Lion in Wilton. It was during one of these meetings that the idea of establishing a permanent clubhouse was first raised. The proposal centred on purchasing the old Queens Head public house on Station Street. After discussion and a formal vote, the club agreed to proceed with the purchase. Thanks to the support of the trustees, the necessary funds were secured, and in 1978 work began to transform the building into the new Ross Rugby Club headquarters — a milestone that shaped the club’s identity for decades to come.

With the new clubhouse “Drop Inn” on Station Street opening in 1978, the 1980s became a period of consolidation and growth. The clubhouse quickly became the social heart of the club, hosting post match gatherings, community events, and fundraisers that strengthened Ross’s identity both on and off the field. During this period, the club invested steadily in improving playing facilities, coaching standards, and youth development. Junior and Colts teams began to flourish, creating a pathway that would shape the club’s future playing strength.

The early 2000s saw Ross-on-Wye Rugby Club deepen its role within the local community. Key developments included: • Expansion of the junior section, with more age grade teams and qualified coaches. • Improved training facilities, including better lighting and upgraded pitches. • A stronger fixture list, with the club competing regularly across Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, and the wider region. The clubhouse continued to evolve as a venue for celebrations, charity events, and local gatherings, reinforcing the club’s place at the centre of Ross life.

With new changing facilities and community room built at the playing grounds based at Greytree, Ross-on-Wye, the 2010s brought both challenges and progress. Player recruitment, volunteer support, and funding — familiar issues for many grassroots clubs — required renewed focus. In response, Ross strengthened its youth programmes, expanded community outreach, and invested in coaching development. The club also embraced modernisation, improving communications, digital presence, and partnerships with local businesses. These efforts helped stabilise membership and ensured a steady flow of players into the senior squads.

The early 2020s presented unprecedented disruption, with national lockdowns halting rugby across the country. Ross-on-Wye Rugby Club responded with resilience, maintaining community connections, supporting members, and preparing for a strong return to play. As rugby resumed, the club focused on rebuilding momentum: • Re-establishing senior squads and strengthening player pathways. • Expanding the minis and juniors, ensuring rugby remained accessible and enjoyable for local families. • Investing in facilities and coaching, The clubhouse keeping the club competitive and welcoming. • Ross Rugby Clubhouse underwent a full refurbishment during 2023/24, transforming the facility into a modern and welcoming venue for members, visitors, and the wider community. The project included the installation of a larger catering kitchen, a fully equipped bar, and brand-new ladies' and gents' toilet facilities. Additional improvements comprised a dedicated storeroom, cellar, disabled-access toilet, and a new balcony with contemporary railings, enhancing both functionality and the overall clubhouse experience. • As a result of these improvements, the clubhouse is now well equipped to host a wide range of functions and events, including weddings, christenings, birthday celebrations, corporate events, community gatherings, and wakes. With modern facilities and flexible spaces, Ross Rugby Clubhouse provides an excellent venue for both private and public occasions.

Ross-on-Wye Rugby Club stands as a proud, community driven organisation with deep roots and a forward looking spirit. The club continues to honour its long history while embracing new generations of players, volunteers, and supporters who carry the Ross rugby tradition into the future.