In 1823, Webb Ellis picked up the ball at Rugby School, and ran with it. This controversial action is being celebrated throughout the world in this bicentenary year of the game of rugby. Radley had developed its own game – 12 good men, engaging in puddings and squashes. How different would the world be if Radley Football had triumphed in place of Rugby Football?

It sacrificed its own football game in favour of the new rules of Association in the 1870s but already there was a movement to go to the dark side (or into the light, depending on your point of view). In 1914, the Warden published (probably) the most controversial notice ever pinned up in Covered Passage: RUGGER WILL BE PLAYED. Association was banned. No debate. No looking back.

Radley Then & Now: Rugger Will Be Played took place via Zoom on 1st November 2023. The talk was led by Archivist, Clare Sargent, with contributions from the College’s Sub-Warden (and former rugby coach), Niall Murphy, and Tutor & Master in Charge of Rugby, Nick Wood. We are grateful for the thoughts and memories that were shared by members of the community during the event.