This season marks 100 years of Rugby Union at the University of Nottingham. In celebration, the Campaign and Alumni Relations Office are reflecting on the history of the club with alumni and fundraising to support its future.

An image from the Manuscripts and Special Collections’ archive of the First XV from our very first season 100 years ago.

From the stewardship of the first ever captain D.L. Nicholas, to today’s President Lawrence Davies, the club’s tradition is rich – contributing to the development of world-class rugby players; from the iconic Brian Moore, to England caps Ron Jacobs and Nick Preston, and more recently Tim Streather and Chris Wyles. The season’s activities will culminate in a special fundraising dinner on campus, with Brian Moore attending as our guest speaker.

Paul Westgate, Head of Performance Rugby, said: “We are excited to celebrate 100 years of rugby at the University of Nottingham. Our history is a rich, varied and prestigious one, and today the University of Nottingham Rugby Union Club (UNRUC) is one of the biggest and most successful sports clubs.

“This is a special year for UNRUC: an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the amazing history of rugby at the University. But it is also an opportunity for us to look forward with pride and excitement knowing that UNRUC is moving in the right direction and going from strength to strength.”

If you have a connection to the club, know of someone who does, or want to find out more about the centenary, please visit the webpage.