History

Otley RUFC formed in 1865 and are one of the most distinguished rugby clubs in the country. Our First XV have played at the top of the National Leagues for over a decade, and many internationals have come through our Junior section including Nigel Melville and Danny Care. We have hosted some memorable occasions including the North's defeat of the All Blacks in 1979, the North versus Australia in 1988, and Italy versus the USA in the 1991 Rugby World Cup.

We respect our past achievements, and will remain a traditional rugby club dedicated to encouraging local players of all ages and abilities to play and watch rugby union football, and to enjoy each others' company socially. We aim to continue to play rugby at the highest possible level within the National Leagues for the benefit of our members and supporters, and deliver excellent coaching to maximise the potential of every player.

Today our First XV play rugby on a semi-professional basis in National League Two North. We have a thriving Junior section and the Sport England Seal of Approval, which shows that we provide a quality experience in a safe and child-friendly environment.

Over 100 adult players and c.250 young boys and girls play their rugby at Otley, and we have over 30 RFU-qualified coaches and over 300 full and family members. We partner with local schools, colleges, the military and the police to encourage participation in sport, our clubhouse is used extensively by local sports clubs and we offer sports camps for local children during the Easter and Summer.