Effingham & Leatherhead RFC
60 Years of Rugby in the Village of Effingham!
On 13th January 1966, a group of passionate villagers gathered to form what would become Effingham & Leatherhead Rugby Football Club. Sparked by a vision to bring winter sport and community spirit to the King George V Memorial Grounds, the club was born — and with it, a legacy that continues to soar.
Our club’s inaugural match took place in March 1966 against Guildford & Godalming RFC, marking the beginning of a proud tradition. From the original green jerseys with white collars, and green and gold-trimmed socks to today’s bold eagle crest, ELRFC has grown in strength and spirit.
As we celebrate 60 years, we honour the volunteers, players, coaches, and supporters who shaped our journey. From the “Golden Galleon” of Lord Howard of Effingham to the soaring eagle of today, our club remains anchored in heritage and lifted by ambition.
Did you know? – Some interesting facts about the club’s past:
- In 1937, Effingham villagers raised £1500 to buy the 31.5 acre site of King George V Memorial Grounds.
- Use of the fields was disappointingly low for many years, although a football club was playing there by 1965.
- Construction of the Hall became possible in 1965 when Eastwick Park Cricket Club proposed to move there.
- During construction of the Hall it was decided that it would be desirable to add a flat to the top of the Hall for use by a caretaker.
- However, it was clear that in order to meet the additional running costs of the Hall and caretaker additional sources of revenue would be needed.
- On 5 July 1965, Dr C.T. Sutton wrote, “A suggestion has been made that a Rugby Club should be formed. This will add substantially to winter use and to financial support and since I myself have the greatest interest in this game and the possibility of many helpful contacts I shall be most pleased to help. It will not interfere with the Football Club, whose players will, as hitherto, be encouraged.”
- There was an abortive attempt to form a club in December 1965, which failed due to low attendance at the meeting.
- Then on 13 January 1966 another meeting was held at which Effingham Rugby Football Club was formed and a Committee appointed.
- The inaugural match was in March 1966 against Guildford & Godalming RFC, with the 1966/67 season being the first full season.
- The original club colours were a green jersey with white collar, white shorts, and green and gold socks.
- The original club log was the “Golden Galleon of Lord Howard of Effingham”.
