Rugby team aims for anniversary picture with a difference

Search for '˜Old Boys' as Hartlepool Rugby Club plans mammoth team photo to celebrate 125th anniversary
The cup-winning first XV from 1987 with the Durham Challenge Trophy.The cup-winning first XV from 1987 with the Durham Challenge Trophy.
The cup-winning first XV from 1987 with the Durham Challenge Trophy.

That was the message to players and former players of a Hartlepool rugby club with a long-established tradition which is celebrating a major anniversary in a very special way.

Hartlepool Rugby Club, which is commonly referred to as Old Boys, is 125 years old this year.

One of the club's 1960s teams.One of the club's 1960s teams.
One of the club's 1960s teams.

And there’s a big celebration on the way this weekend.

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The club is set to hold a special reunion event this Saturday and a spokesman explained more.

At 12pm, a photoshoot will be held and officials are hoping it will be the biggest ever of a team - as long as plenty of former players join in the big occasion.

A club spokesman said: “It has been described by organisers as the perfect opportunity to catch up with old friends, reminisce and enjoy an afternoon of rugby whilst celebrating this milestone in the Easington Road club’s history.

A nostalgic shot of an Old Boys squad.A nostalgic shot of an Old Boys squad.
A nostalgic shot of an Old Boys squad.

“They will also be holding what is being hailed as the ‘Biggest Team Photo Ever’ at 12pm with players of all ages encouraged to wear their club colours and get involved.”

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The club was formed in 1893 and there’s going to be plenty to enjoy on Saturday.

All players, members officials, past and present, are invited to be there and to join up for ‘a rare rugby triple header at Mayfield Park’.

It will feature three separate Hartlepool Old Boys teams in action during the day.

Mayfield Park, in Easington Road, Hartlepool.Mayfield Park, in Easington Road, Hartlepool.
Mayfield Park, in Easington Road, Hartlepool.

The Hartlepool first 15 will be taking on Winlaton Vulcans in the Durham Northumberland League 2 at 3pm. Meanwhile, Hartlepool A will be taking on Barnard Castle and Hartlepool Friars will be entertaining Consett.

For more information, email [email protected].

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This comes hot on the heels of the recent 125th anniversary celebration dinner attended 250 guests at the Borough Hall.

Formed in 1893 as Hartlepool Old Boys RFC, the club was recognised as Hartlepool Rugby Club in 1978.

A new gold crest that acknowledges the occasion has already been launched alongside a range of merchandise and a commemorative 1st XV playing shirt that incorporates a return to the traditional black and white hoops.