The Old Halesonians Association, based in Stourbridge, is a thriving sporting club that encompasses rugby, cricket, and hockey. The association can trace its roots back to October 6, 1925, when the past pupils of Halesowen Grammar School held various sporting events and social activities. The rugby section of the club was formed in 1930, with annual subscriptions at just one shilling (equivalent to 5 pence today).
During the war years, matches were put on hold, but in 1943, a Mr. Cooper promised to provide a field near Halesowen Grammar School for the rugby club to continue playing. The matches took place on the famous “Newfields pitch,” which featured a wooden shed for changing and a tin bath heated by open gas burners.
In 1946, the Old Halesonians Association embarked on a significant fundraising initiative to create a memorial for old scholars who lost their lives in the two world wars. The ultimate goal was to acquire the “Memorial Playing Fields. ” Through various efforts, including donations and events, a sum of 685-14-8d was raised, which grew to 1,000 by 1954.
In 1954, there was a breakthrough when Mr. Ron Goodman, an Old Halesonian, sold 12 acres of sloping land to the association for 920. This land, known as “Huntlands,” extended from Quarry Lane to the brook feeding the River Stour. However, funds were needed to develop the uneven land, and in June 1961, A & J Mucklow Builders offered to exchange the land at Wassell Grove, Hagley, for the Huntlands piece.
Mucklows also laid a cricket square, two rugby pitches, and a hockey pitch at Wassell Grove and contributed 10,000 towards the construction of a clubhouse.
The official opening of the new facilities, named Old Halesonians Memorial Playing Fields, took place on April 21, 1965. Members of all three sections of the association worked tirelessly to develop the grounds, including creating a 120-metre hard-core drive. Grass and hedge cutting were carried out by volunteers, and various working parties were organised to maintain the facilities.
Today, the Old Halesonians Association is a vibrant hub for rugby, cricket, and hockey enthusiasts. The club boasts a fully equipped clubhouse, managed by a full-time Centre Manager, that is open every day. The association also emphasises its vibrant social side and welcomes individuals of all ages and abilities to join their sporting community. With a rich history and a commitment to pride, passion, and respect, the Old Halesonians Association continues to be an integral part of the Stourbridge sporting scene.