Leeds Rugby Union Football Club – The History
Leeds has a great tradition of rugby which all started back in 1877. After several youngsters became interested in rugby after watching Leeds St. Johns, later to become Leeds Rhinos. Their inaugural game was in November
against the Saints second team.
In 1889, Headingley was disbanded when Leeds St. Johns moved into the area and built Headingley Stadium and later dropped the St. Johns from their name. However, Headingley bounced back and led the way in finding major fixtures outside Yorkshire and in 1901 their fixture list including a game against the famous Blackheath club.
Roundhay were formed in 1924 and moved to their grounds at Chandos Park in the 1930’s. Leeds RUFC was formed in June 1991 with their first match taking place on 1st September 1992 against Hull Ionians, following the amalgamation of Roundhay and Headingley to form the new club. Since 1996, Headingley has been the home of the city’s premier rugby union side.
Forty internationals have graced both clubs, combined, with perhaps the best known being Peter Winterbottom, Ian McGeechan and Chris Rea who played for Headingley. Brian Moore played for Roundhay before his moved down to
Nottingham and his selection for England.
Leeds Rugby Football Club Today and the Future
The L.R.U.F.C. is in existence today, with the clubhouse still at Chandos Park.
Until very recently, Leeds Tykes had their headquarters at Chandos Park and Phil Davies and his support staff and squad were based there. Now, the facility has moved to the newly developed Kirkstall site, which is proving to
be a huge success due to the outstanding facilities.
However, the L.R.U.F.C. remains at Chandos Park with the President being Leeds’ Lord Mayor David Hudson and Chairman Dave Jennings and it is here the Under 19, Under 21 and Yorkshire Cup fixtures are played.
There is the possibility that the clubhouse will be moved to share facilities, playing pitches and training pitches with West Park Bramhope – but this has yet to be finalised.
Membership of the L.R.U.F.C. is £45.00 for full voting rights membership or £5.00 for a social member of the club. The membership allows entry to the clubhouse and it’s fine beer, a booklet containing all the fixtures of the U19 and
