Rugby Union in The Bailiwick of Guernsey - History

History

Due to its proximity to the major rugby nations England and France, Guernsey rugby is amongst the oldest in the world, dating back to the mid 19th century. A number of schools play the sport, especially the private ones, such as Elizabeth College.

Guernsey RUFC (GRUFC) was founded in 1928 and competes in the English leagues.

There is only one other club in Guernsey, St. Jacques RUFC, which was founded in 1978. St Jacques currently compete in the Jersey Rugby Association (JRA) league along with the Guernsey 2nd XV. St Jacques home ground is the KGV playing fields. The team trains pre-season at various parks around the island. During the season the team trains at the KGV every Wednesday from 1800.

The Siam Cup is an annual Rugby Union competition held between Jersey and Guernsey. It was first contested in 1920. The trophy awarded its winner is the second oldest rugby honour contested after the Calcutta Cup.

Development of the sport is limited due to the practicalities of small islands; Guernsey's national population is under 80,000. The main sport is association football.

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