For over 130 years, Derby Rugby Club has brought people together through rugby, friendship, and community. Founded in 1891 and proudly based at Haslams Lane, Derby RFC has grown into one of the region’s most welcoming and inclusive sporting communities.

At its core, Derby RFC is built on far more than results and league tables. While competitive rugby remains a central part of club life, the true strength of the club lies in its people.

From lifelong members to first-time visitors, everyone is welcomed into a community that values teamwork, respect, enjoyment, and belonging.

Our Men’s Section offers competitive rugby across multiple teams, creating opportunities for players to develop, compete, and enjoy the game at a level that suits them.

Whether you are an experienced player looking to test yourself at a high standard, or returning to rugby and seeking regular game time, there is a place for you within the club.

Training sessions are designed to enhance individual skills, fitness, and tactical understanding, while also building a strong team ethic and a real sense of camaraderie.

With a welcoming and supportive environment both on and off the pitch, the Men’s Section combines competitive rugby with the social side of the game—creating an enjoyable and rewarding experience for players of all abilities and ambitions.

Our Women’s Section continues to grow and achieve, attracting players from across Derbyshire and beyond.

Built on a strong team culture and a supportive environment, it offers opportunities for both experienced players and those new to the game. The section is founded on a commitment to player development, inclusivity, and enjoyment, ensuring every member feels valued both on and off the pitch.

Regular training sessions focus on improving skills, fitness, and game understanding, while competitive fixtures provide the chance to test abilities and progress throughout the season.

Beyond rugby, the Women’s Section fosters lasting friendships and a strong sense of community, creating a welcoming atmosphere where players can build confidence, achieve personal goals, and be part of a thriving and ambitious team.

Our Colts programme is designed for players aged 16–18 and provides a vital pathway between junior and senior rugby.

It focuses on developing the technical skills, physical preparation, and game understanding required to progress confidently into the adult game, while also encouraging leadership, teamwork, and personal responsibility.

Players benefit from high-quality coaching, competitive fixtures, and a supportive environment that challenges them to reach their potential both on and off the pitch.

Whether aiming to step into senior rugby at the club, pursue opportunities at a higher level, or simply continue enjoying the game, the Colts programme equips young players with the experience, confidence, and foundations needed for the next stage of their rugby journey.

Every weekend, Haslams Lane comes alive with the sound of laughter, encouragement, and excitement as hundreds of young players and their families gather to enjoy rugby.

Our Mini and Junior sections are at the very heart of the club, providing a fun, safe, and welcoming environment where children can learn new skills, make friends, and grow in confidence.

From first-time players taking their earliest steps onto the pitch to more experienced youngsters developing their game, the focus is always on enjoyment, teamwork, and personal development.

Supported by dedicated coaches, volunteers, and parents, our Mini and Junior players embody the spirit of Derby Rugby Club—building memories, friendships, and a lifelong love of rugby that extends far beyond their playing years.

Our commitment to inclusion extends through Derby Touch Rugby and the Derby Bucks Mixed Ability team, ensuring that rugby remains accessible to everyone, regardless of age, experience, or ability.

These sections provide a welcoming and supportive environment where players can enjoy the social, sporting, and fitness benefits of rugby in a way that suits them.

Derby Touch Rugby offers a fast-paced, non-contact version of the game—ideal for improving fitness, having fun, and meeting new people in a relaxed and inclusive setting.

The Derby Bucks Mixed Ability team brings together players of all backgrounds and abilities to compete, develop, and celebrate the game together in a fully inclusive rugby environment.

Both programmes reflect the club’s belief that rugby is for everyone, fostering friendship, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging both on and off the field.

While rugby brings people through the gates, it is often the friendships and sense of belonging that keep them coming back.

Throughout the year, Derby RFC hosts a wide range of social events, fundraising activities, family days, celebrations, and community gatherings that bring members together both on and off the pitch.

Whether you are a player, parent, volunteer, sponsor, or supporter, there is always a place for you within the Derby Rugby Club family.

While rugby brings people through the gates, it's often the friendships and sense of belonging that keep them coming back.

Throughout the year, Derby RFC hosts social events, fundraising activities, family days, celebrations and community gatherings that bring members together both on and off the pitch.

Whether you're a player, parent, volunteer, sponsor or supporter, there is always a place for you within the Derby Rugby Club family.

At the centre of club life is Haslams Bar, a welcoming space where players, supporters and visitors come together to celebrate, socialise and enjoy everything that makes Derby RFC special.

From post-match gatherings and club dinners to summer events and rugby socials, the clubhouse remains the beating heart of the club.

Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers helps create the atmosphere and sense of community that members enjoy throughout the year.

As Derby Rugby Club continues to grow, our focus remains firmly on providing opportunities for people to enjoy rugby, build friendships and become part of a thriving community.

Whether you're an experienced player looking for a new challenge, a parent seeking a supportive environment for your child, someone interested in trying rugby for the first time, or simply looking for a friendly local club to support, Derby RFC offers a place to belong.

More than a rugby club, Derby RFC is a community built on shared experiences, lasting friendships and a passion for the game that has united generations for well over a century.

For further information on playing in a particular section please contact:

• Minis (Aged under 12 and below) – Dan Middleton on 07960 962916
• Junior Boys (Aged Under16 to Under 13) – Charles Binns on 07843 341817
• Women and Junior Girls (Under 18 to Under 13) - Matilda Cawdell on 07480 768765
• Men and Colts (Under 18 to Under16 Boys) - Charlie Barker on 07904 087420

Full details of key club contacts can be found on our Contact page.

For other rugby related matters, please contact our Head of Rugby, Rodger Mather, on 07719 708795.

For further information on playing membership, please contact Colin Cornfield on 07966 827596.

For further information on non-playing membership, please contact Charlie Walton on 07977 003730.