History

History


Avonmouth Old Boys RFC is one of the oldest clubs in Bristol and boasts a long and proud sporting history within the local community. Founded in 1897 by local school master W Powell, the clubs first ground was on the banks of the River Severn in the region of the present West Wharf 2 of the Royal Edward Dock, there it remained for six seasons. The team then moved to a new home at the King George V Rec Ground (home to Avonmouth FC) where they stayed for many years. The site saw a huge change in the 70's as the Avonmouth Bridge was constructed adjacent to the playing pitches. The club saw a change in location again when in the mid 80's they moved into a brand-new facility in Barracks Lane on the King George V playing fields, this is where the club have since stayed.

Avonmouth OBRFC has always been looked upon as one of the leading sides within the Bristol Combination & prior to the current league structure it achieved unparalleled success in the Bristol Evening post merit table and Bristol Combination Cup, mostly during the 1970s and 80s. Following the league restructure in the mid 90's the club struggled to gain any major success in league rugby with hotly contested local derby's taking their toll and many trips to Gloucestershire based sides putting hold to any success.

Over the past couple of decades Avonmouth Old Boys RFC saw its fortunes re-emerge on the rugby field, returning to the success of its past glorious era. The 1st XV gained promotion through the leagues from Gloucester premier (level 8) to National League 3 South West (level 5), a rise of 4 Leagues. During this time, they clinched two Bristol Combination Cup titles and a runner-up. Of more recent times the club has seen a drop in leagues but have won the Gloucestershire County Cup and become runners up of the following year whilst also clinching the Bristol Combination Cup Vase, currently the 1st XV compete at Western Counties North (level 7).

Avonmouth Old Boys RFC is an amateur club thriving in the modern era of the game, we are very proud of our old fashioned values, grass root status and as a small club we thrive on competing against larger clubs with catchment areas much greater than our small local industrial community.
We see ourselves as a focal point of the local community whilst also providing facilities for members to develop both sporting and social skills.
The club is built on a foundation that encourages the core values of the game from tots through to 1st XV sportsmanship, Teamwork, Discipline, Respect.
The club runs three senior men’s teams, a women’s side, a veteran’s side, Colts & a mini/junior youth section featuring the full range of age-groups including 3 junior girls age groups. The 1st XV compete at Tribute Western Counties North (level seven). Our successes both on and off the field have undoubtedly been well deserved & built by the drive of our loyal members.