The 1990s were a decade of transformation for Oakham RFC — a period of growth, new facilities, unforgettable cup runs, international tours, and the emergence of a thriving Ladies team. It was a time when the club pushed forward on every front, strengthening its identity both on and off the field.
This week’s restored photo features the 1991/92 Courage League Leicestershire Division 2 Champions, a squad whose success set the tone for an ambitious decade.
1990/91 – A New Era Begins
Chris Baum took over as Captain as league rugby continued to expand. The club celebrated a major milestone as Richard Watson completed 25 years as Club President, honoured at a special luncheon attended by nearly every 1st XV captain since 1950.
That summer, Oakham welcomed the Rugby World Cup Ball Relay, led through town by Dusty Hare alongside dozens of young players — a proud moment for the club and community.
1991/92 – Champions of Leicestershire Division 2
Oakham claimed the Courage League Division 2 title under Chairman Noel Manby and Head Coach Andy Williamson. Standout performers included Tim Brant, Tom Rees, Martin Mortimer and Steve Reid.
The club expanded again with a 4th XV entering the fixture card, and in November 1992 Oakham opened a major clubhouse extension — funded by grants, donations and the sale of engraved supporter “bricks,” symbolising a true community effort.
1992–95 – Tours, Cup Runs & Growing Youth Rugby
The early 90s brought strong progress across the entire club:
• A dramatic run to the 5th round of the Pilkington Shield, including a memorable 16–15 win away at Ledbury
• Hosting the Leicestershire Mini Festival for the first time
• A flourishing Colts programme
• Junior teams playing extended fixture lists
• Vital sponsorship support from Canon UK
In 1994, Oakham’s 1st XV and Veterans toured Besançon, France, competing in matches marking 50 years since the liberation of France — a proud and memorable international occasion.
1995/96 – The Ladies Team Takes Flight
One of the most important developments of the decade came with the formation of the Oakham RFC Ladies team. Led by Gill Dixon, the squad quickly made its presence felt, playing 12 competitive fixtures in their first season against teams such as Westleigh, Peterborough, Kettering and Norwich City.
Their debut season was a remarkable success:
• Promoted to Division 4 of the East Midlands League
• Rapid squad growth and strong performances
• A new pathway for women and girls to join Oakham RFC
Gill Dixon handed the Captaincy to Alison Allman at the end of the season, but the foundation she built shaped the next era of women’s rugby at the club.
Meanwhile, the men’s 1st XV under Cory Taylor enjoyed an excellent campaign, going unbeaten until the final match.
1996 also marked the retirement of Richard Watson, stepping down after 33 years as Club President and 46 years of service — an extraordinary legacy that guided Oakham RFC through decades of growth and change.
1996–99 – Big Results, Bold Ambition & Unforgettable Upsets
The arrival of Steve Worrall (Player/Coach) and Gary Stewart elevated performance levels, while Captain Mick “Duffy” Hudson began his long tenure.
These years saw:
• A famous 22–20 upset victory over Bridlington in the NPI Cup
• Record-breaking scorelines, including 101–0 vs St Neots
• Full squads across all sections: 1sts, 2nds, 3rds, 4ths, Ladies, Colts, Juniors & Minis
• A major financial lifeline — Burley Appliances funding a seven-year sponsorship, securing the club’s stability
Oakham ended the decade as a thriving, modernising community club with strong youth pathways, competitive senior sides and a growing women’s programme.
A Decade of Ambition & Transformation
From league titles and cup giant-killings to international tours and the birth of the Ladies team, the 1990s reshaped Oakham RFC.
It was a decade of belief, community effort and bold growth — laying the foundation for the success and identity of the club in the years that followed.