Kettering Rugby Football Club (KRFC) proudly celebrates its 150th anniversary in the 2025–2026 season. Founded in 1875, KRFC stands among the oldest rugby institutions in the UK. Our Sesquicentennial Season is more than a historical landmark — it’s a tribute to generations of players, supporters, and volunteers who have shaped the club’s journey, and a bold statement of our continued commitment to rugby and community.

This season is packed with celebration, remembrance, and future-focused development — from grassroots youth to elite amateur sport.

A Legacy of Rugby and Community, since its founding in 1875, KRFC has embodied the true spirit of rugby — camaraderie, competition, and community. From our 125th anniversary in 2000 to today, we have:

Expanded youth and mini rugby
Grown our women’s and girls’ programs
Improved club facilities
Launched community initiatives like HITREDs
Nurtured homegrown talent to senior levels

We honour the amateur roots of our club while embracing a modern, inclusive future.
150th Season Objectives. The 2025–2026 Sesquicentennial Season will:

Celebrate past players, coaches, and volunteers
Showcase stories of resilience — including our post-pandemic recovery
Promote community unity and inclusivity
Fundraise for long-term facility and community development
Inspire the next generation through youth engagement and heritage storytelling

“150 for 150” Fundraising Campaign
KRFC’s flagship fundraising initiative aims to raise £150,000. Every pound helps build a stronger future.

Key features include:

Permanent Legacy Donor Wall at the club entrance
Online and in-person donation options
Branded merchandise and sponsor packages
Community story-sharing campaign

Kickoff Event:

The KRFC Cycle Challenge will deliver a match ball from Twickenham to Waverley Road, symbolically kicking off the 150th season.

Season Timeline & Key Events

June 2025 AGM & Press Launch, Club History Project Launch
6th Sept 2025 Cycle Challenge, Club Lunch & Festival of Rugby
January 2026 HITREDs Sports Awards Dinner
March–April 2026 MJ Festivals (15 Mar, 26 Apr), History Exhibition Phase 2
June 2026 Club Photo Day & Season Wrap-Up Event
July 2026 150th Summer Ball – Premier Celebration

Community & Legacy

KRFC has long extended its reach beyond the pitch — from music and beer festivals to charity events, school outreach, and accessible rugby for all.

In 2025–26, we will:

Showcase digital stories from past and present members
Launch an interactive club history portal
Introduce new youth-focused heritage projects

We honour the past while creating memories that will last another 150 years.

Get Involved

This season belongs to everyone.

We invite members, families, fans, and partners to take part.

Join one of our Sesquicentennial Sub-Committees:

Events
Fundraising
Media & Heritage
Facilities
Youth & Juniors

A special players’ meeting and Mini & Junior family session will be scheduled ahead of the season launch. Full details coming soon.

Stay Connected
Watch this space and follow our socials for updates, feature stories, merchandise, and ticket releases.

This is your club. Your story. Join us in making history.