Club: Northwich RUFC

Founded: 1965

Club History

Northwich Rugby Union Football Club (NRUFC) formerly known as Mid-Cheshire College RUFC had official beginnings in 1965. The nucleus of players for the new club came from the Northwich, Runcorn, & Widnes students. John Chappell a college lecturer was a leading light in forming the club and in its formative years was instrumental in organising everything.

During the early 1980’s, the club experienced impressive growth both on and off the field to the point where it was fielding 5 senior teams. The club won it’s first senior silverwear Cheshire Plate in 1987. Looking forward the club started a junior section in 1986. Within 5 seasons, Northwich Juniors were consistently producing Colts players who progressed to 1st team or play senior rugby, either for us or other clubs.

In their 25^thseason the club changed names to Northwich RUFC. Since the introduction of ‘organised competitive rugby’ in the late 80’s, the club has been highly successful. Being one of the first clubs to embrace organised competitions for their 2s & lower sides. All their teams have experienced league wins, promotions, cup success and / or merit table honours.

In its 50+ year history the ‘Teams of the Town’ have become one of the most successful clubs in the area Northwich first team playing in North 1 West. The club fields teams in all senior and junior grades and is renowned for the incredible junior talent that continually evolves from the club.

Northwich continue to be highly competitive winning the prestigious Cheshire Vase for a record fourth time in the competition’s history during season 2018-19.

Their aim and ambition is to have thriving Mini & Junior sections combined with Colts development to sustain all our Senior teams.

The club ethos is to get everyone regardless of ability a run out who wants one, be as successful as they can be, playing at the highest level possible within the resources they can sustain, with the emphasis on all enjoying the game Rugby Union.

Present developments / initiatives

To enhance the rugby experience and provide opportunity for more children to get involved Northwich developed a new format which differentiates the childrens early rugby experience from other local rugby clubs, Northwich Rugby Superstars program is a FREE initiative for 5 – 11, year olds of all ability. Northwich superstars mini’s program stimulates a mutual respect between the differing mini age groups and skill levels interacting together, whereby the elder or more technically advanced players actively support in training drills and demonstrations, to improve not only themselves, their peers but also their younger teammates. Being a “Buddy” is encouraged. Coaches engage the older juniors in conversation urging them to talk openly about game tactics, disappointments, and improvements encouraging them in making decisions. At all levels player expectations are managed, after all not everyone is going to get county trials or play for the clubs 1st XV. However everyone needs to be dealt with respectfully

Northwich Rugby club organise, provide manpower and logistical support in running an annual five day Northwich Festival over the August Bank Holiday weekend, a full programme of events for all tastes within our local community including Sportsman’s Dinner, Disability Awareness Day, Music Festival, Motorbike & Scooter Show, Classic Car Show and an Extravaganza Day which encourages local charities, activity groups and anything “Northwich” to advertise, exhibit and demonstrate what they provide for the local community whilst allowing them opportunity to raise vital funds for their respective organisations. The 2019 Festival is celebrating its 33rd year

Northwich RUFC are currently running a 30 week FREE, Walking Rugby program engaging with the local community encouraging the participation of all. The program is growing in number with over 50’s, ladies, senior, junior players and those with special needs.

Their coaches are also attending both main stream and special schools making it possible for the students to experience, for the first time, rugby from their wheelchairs.

Plans for the future

Northwich RUFC an ever evolving club continually integrating with our local community and engaging with the local population and residential estates now surrounding our grounds.

They envisage becoming a community hub, appealing to a broad spectrum in the locality. Proactively liaising with Northwich based businesses to promote the town and enhance the experience of the population, whilst engaging in charitable activities and environmental improvement activities for locally based charities and Northwich Town Council.

Continuing their work in close partnership with local schools to promote physical and mental wellbeing amongst children, and working with the physically, mentally and financially disadvantaged ensuring rugby for all. And providing access to a range of sporting activities for children and adults, by affiliations and connections with a number of other sporting clubs.