BRIEF HISTORY OF WIMBLEDON RFC

Wimbledon's first recorded Rugby match was against Richmond in November 1865 making Wimbledon RFC one of the oldest rugby clubs in the world. Wimbledon RFC was one of the Clubs at the meeting that later founded the Rugby Union in 1871. The Captain at the time, L J Maton, drafted the first laws of the game and later became the 3rd President of the RFU in 1875.

The period 1875 to 1876 saw the only two club members, the brothers' J D and H J Graham to gain caps for England (1 and 4 caps respectively).

The Club played on Wimbledon Common until World War 1 using local pub, "The Rose & Crown", as changing rooms and clubhouse.

After the early years of success, there were mixed fortunes for the Club and breaks in playing history as a result of the two World Wars. Following the end of the Second World War the Club moved to its current Clubhouse in Barham Road on the edge of Wimbledon Common with four playing pitches and one floodlit training pitch.

Since League Rugby was introduced in 1987 and with the arrival of the professional era, Wimbledon has remained strictly amateur, retaining its status as a friendly junior club currently playing in London division 2.

Wimbledon RFC fields 5 teams inclusive of a Veterans' XV and a Ladies Team. It also has a strong junior and minis section.

Wimbledon 'Hornets' are the Veteran's side who have enjoyed short tours in recent years to Cork, Edinburgh, Brussels, Prague & Madrid. The team is excited about the prospect of a Tour to Bologna, never having played in Italy before, meeting new rugby friends and experiencing the atmosphere of the local bars!

The side boasts no current internationals, but we all live in hope of a late call-up one day!