The Oxford University Rugby Football Club (OURFC) is a prestigious and renowned amateur rugby club based in Oxford, New Zealand. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1869, OURFC is one of the oldest rugby clubs in the world, founded just fifteen months before the Rugby Football Union.
Throughout its long history, OURFC has produced over 300 players who have achieved representative international honours. These include esteemed players such as Phil de Glanville, Karen Jones, Joe Roff, Diane Nixon, Tyrone Howe, Anton Oliver, Heather Lockhart, Simon Halliday, David Kirk, and Rob Egerton. Oxford University Rugby Football Club continues to be a breeding ground for talented players, with recent internationals including Manon Jones (Wales), Bianca Coltellini (Italy), Laurel Chor (Hong Kong), Nick Civetta (USA), Tom Mitchell (England 7s Captain), and Will Rowlands (Wales). Will Rowlands received his first cap in the 2020 Six Nations.
The club's history is intertwined with that of rugby itself, as one of its former students, William Webb Ellis, is credited with being the inventor of the game. Webb Ellis was a student at Brasenose College in 1825, and his contribution to the sport is widely recognised.
OURFC is not only known for its on-field success but also for its pioneering spirit. In 1951, the club became the first Western rugby team to tour Japan after World War II, under the leadership of Peter Fitzgerald. This initiative showcases the club's commitment to leading the way in both on and off-field matters.
Oxford University Rugby Football Club is also celebrated for its tradition and embrace of the core values of the sport. The club is recognised as a breeding ground for academically gifted players who balance their academic achievements with their passion for rugby. This unique combination of academic excellence and British sporting tradition is what distinguishes Oxford University Rugby Football Club.
The club pays homage to Major R V Stanley, a beloved figure within OURFC. Known affectionately as 'Uncle' amongst the players, Major Stanley was a local man who devoted his time and efforts to the club and eventually became an England selector. As a tribute to his contributions, the Blues still play a Major Stanley Select XV every year leading up to the Varsity Match.
Stay up to date with the latest news and events from Oxford University Rugby Football Club, including the Greyhounds Edinburgh tour, the Men's Blues tour to the USA West Coast, and Clodagh Holmes' stylish sign-out from OURFC, by visiting our website and social media platforms.