BRIXHAM RUGBY SUPPORTERS

A SHORT HISTORY

1850
Rugby Union Football introduced to Brixham when a newly ordained curate arrived from Cambridge University . At this stage there were few laws and the game was essentially a type of mob football mainly played by local fishermen
1874
Brixham Rugby Football Club came into official existence and became one of the founder members of Devon RFU of which only 6 clubs are now left. Played Rugby on Furzeham Green until 1896 when we moved to our present ground in New Gate Park
1924-34
One of the best periods in the Club's history during which we won the Devon Cup twice and were runners-up on four occasions. The Club unfortunately ran into financial difficulties
1934
Two local men - Messrs Astley and Smardon puchased the ground and gave it back to the town on the understanding that the Club should play on the ground free of rates for as long as the Club was in existence - a privilege we still enjoy!
1940-45
No Rugby played
1945
Rugby recommenced under the captaincy of Jimmy Merchant who had played for Plymouth Albion and Torquay and now returned to his home club
1950/60's
The Club's fortunes were once more at a low ebb
1963
The Club committee was strengthened by an influx of new members and a Youth policy was initiated
1964
Various extensions to the ground and clubhouse were undertaken
1965
Under 16 Club rugby established
1974
Floodlights installed. Increased success both on and off the pitch demanded a larger clubhouse
1975
Fishermen's Cup established for Under 16's of South Devon clubs
1975-6
Brixham won the first Fishermen's Cup
1978
Old clubhouse demolished and present one constructed.
1979
Finalists in Devon Cup
1980
Brixham Youth RFC formed. Introduction of Youth Rugby Week for boys and girls aged 8-16 which has continued to this day
1981
Admitted into the Bass Merit Table for senior West Country clubs after several successful seasons
1985
Brixham defeated Bath by 9-6. Bath had been undefeated in England for 18 months and their team contained 11 internationals
1987
Formation of Courage Leagues - Brixham placed in South West Two
1988
Finalists in Devon Cup and entry to National Cup - defeated by Gloucester in the third round.
1989
Brixham promoted to South West One. Introduction of the West of England Second XV Merit Table
1990-95
Reached Devon Cup Final and entry to the National Cup competition each year
1991
Birth of Ladies rugby in Brixham
1993-4
Under 16's won the Fishermen's Cup
1995-6
Seven Brixham players played for Devon in the County Championship
1996-7
We enter the era of professional rugby. Relegated from South West One. Colts reach final of Devon Colts Cup
1998-9
Under 16's reach final of Fishermen's Cup
1999-2000
The Club celebrates 125 years. First and Colts XV's enjoy best season for 10 years. Ladies undefeated.
2000-2001
First XV reach final of Devon Cup. Lost to Barnstaple in extra time. Colts reach quarter final of National Colts Plate Championship.
2002-3
Colts lose just two games in a season that culminates in their winning the Devon Cup for the first time. Ladies win National Challenge Cup.

Mr BAF Astley, pictured during the First World War.