Chester’s first and only inclusive rugby club are champions

Chester Centurions RUFC, have taken the top spot in the IGR (International Gay Rugby) Northern Development League, with a staggering 52 - 7 victory over Hull Roundheads last Saturday.

The team will now travel to Swansea on 15th April to take on Bristol Bisons, winners of the Southern Development League, for the National Title and more silverware.

This Inclusive Rugby Club was founded as a Rugby Union Club in 2017 after interest was shown at Chester Pride that year.

The club offers the chance for adults in and around Chester an opportunity to give rugby union a try regardless of sexuality, age, rugby experience or ability in a friendly, supportive and inclusive environment with zero tolerance towards homophobia or bigotry. 

The team faced the huge challenge of training and matches having to stop completely during the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns and it took a lot of planning and time to be able to return to full training.

Since then however, the team has gone from strength to strength, 2022 saw the team place third in the league and their determination, passion and hardwork has shown with this year’s win.

Andrew Foxall - Founding member and former Chairperson had this to say:

“I am so proud of the team, and how far we have come.  The hard work over the past five years have really paid off to be champions and a big thank you needs to go to our head coach David Tomlinson, who promised me we would be champions one day, and we made it happen, the club means so much to many and I’m excited to see what is next for us”.

Andrew Hughes - Chairperson added: 

“It’s been a privilege and pleasure to have taken over the reins of the club, each player put their heart and soul into the match and I couldn’t have asked for more.  I call every member not only a teammate, but friend and also family, I have never been prouder to call myself a Centurion and am excited to see where the future takes us’

The Club also have a successful Touch Rugby team which is open to  adults of all genders, identities and abilities

If you would like to find out more information about joining the Chester Centurions RUFC team or the Touch team, you can find them on:

instagram @centurionsrufc

facebook Chester Centurions RUFC

email recruitment@centurionsrufc.co.uk