Ground breaking deal could link rival Oxford rugby clubs
15th May 2006
Oxford’s two rugby clubs could be sharing a venue for first team games next season, as part of a joint initiative to drive up standards and boost support for the game across the
City.
The ambitious new link, which is still under discussion, would see Harlequins move their first team home games to Oxford RFC’s Southern Bypass Ground. Harlequins’ minis and junior section and other Junior League sides would still play at their current venue of Marston Ferry road, whilst all Oxford teams will continue to play at the Southern Bypass ground.
A new joint junior/colts academy would also be created to develop talent and nurture future senior players for both clubs.
The proposals are designed to help both clubs, which will retain separate identities, to achieve their full potential and ultimately achieve national league status for rugby in Oxford.
Julian Perry, Chairman of Oxford Rugby Club said “We are delighted to join with Harlequins in these discussions and believe both clubs can only benefit from a better use of facilities and resources.”
Harlequins’ Chairman, Kevin Johnson said, “The extra ambition and impetus resulting from this link will help us both attract and retain players capable of driving both our sides to promotion to higher leagues. This, in turn, should attract more support and involvement in rugby from the wider community in Oxford.”
