Oakham Rugby Football Club was founded in 1923, thanks to the efforts of Oakham School masters and the dedication of early members, whose annual subscription at the time was ten shillings and sixpence.

A century later, the club continues to thrive, with a proud tradition of competitive rugby, community spirit, and strong support from generations of players, volunteers, and fans.

Over the years, Oakham RFC has experienced both highs and lows, but each era has shaped the club we know today. One of the most significant milestones came in 1979, when mini rugby was introduced by Fred Bellinall, Jim Crawford, Alan Maddison, and Peter Boyd. From those early beginnings, the junior section has grown into a thriving community of around 300 children, with age groups ranging from U6 to U12, before progressing into junior rugby at U13 through to Colts (U17–U18).

The development of the girls’ game has also been a key step, with a strong Oakham & Melton partnership ensuring excellent opportunities for female players.

The introduction of league rugby in the 1990s marked another major change. While Oakham previously fielded five senior teams and enjoyed many local “friendly” fixtures, the new league structure reshaped the rugby landscape. Despite these changes, the club has continued to compete with pride and determination.

Oakham’s first major silverware came under Coach Andy Williamson in the Courage League. Further success followed under Brian Welford and Steve Worrall, with memorable runs in the Pilkington Cup. During this period the club faced higher-league opponents such as Sheffield Tigers, Bridlington, Ledbury, Bromyard, Malvern, and Honiton — often requiring round trips of over 300 miles, and always backed by loyal travelling supporters.

Two matches from that era stand out in particular:
• Oakham vs Bridlington (home, Pilkington Cup)
With Radio Leeds covering the match and over 800 spectators in attendance, Bridlington arrived as heavy favourites. Yet in a rain-soaked, hard-fought battle, Oakham’s half-backs Worrall and Stewart combined in the final minutes to score under the posts, sealing a famous 20–17 victory.

• Oakham vs Honiton (away, Devon)
Despite losing a key player to injury early on, Oakham’s defence held firm against wave after wave of pressure, and the visitors returned home with a remarkable 9–7 win.

Later, under Coach Chris Howe, Oakham enjoyed an unbeaten run of local derby victories against Stamford, spanning six to seven seasons and creating some of the club’s most cherished memories.

Perhaps the most dramatic game came in 1996, when Oakham and Luton met in what was effectively a league title decider. Both sides had won 14 games each, and Oakham led 24–5 at half-time, playing with the wind. In a nail-biting finish, Oakham held a narrow 24–20 lead until the very last play, when Luton scrambled a try to snatch the title 25–24. Though heartbreaking, it remains one of the defining fixtures in club history.

Today, as we celebrate more than 100 years of rugby in Oakham, we look back with pride on the achievements of past players, many of whom remain involved as Vice Presidents and loyal supporters. From small beginnings in 1923 to a thriving club with senior, junior, mini, and girls’ rugby, Oakham RFC continues to uphold the values of teamwork, resilience, and community that have defined us for over a century.