Dewsbury Rams
Encyclopedia
Dewsbury Rams RLFC is a professional rugby league
club based in the West Yorkshire
town of Dewsbury
. They are arguably most famous for becoming Champions in 1972-73 after finishing the regular season in 8th place. In the playoffs they beat Featherstone away, Warrington away, and then Leeds in the Championship Final, 22-13 at Odsal, Bradford. They were captained that season by Mike 'Stevo' Stephenson who scored twice in the final. They play their home games at the Tetley's Stadium
, on Owl Lane.
On 20 November 1875, the first recorded match of Dewsbury Athletic and Football Club took place when they played Heckmondwike Church Society XV and lost by one goal, six tries and eight touch downs to nil. The first home game, it is generally held, took place on 4 December 1875 in a field off Sugar Lane, opposite the future Crown Flatt. In a 13-a-side "scratch" game, the two outfits - one selected by the Captain and the other by the Vice-Captain - fought out a draw. The club soon realised they needed a ground and the following year secured a sub tenancy at Crown Flatt
for £200.
During the course of the 1879/80 season the club colours changed from blue and cardinal to black, crimson and yellow.
On 27 March 1880, the Yorkshire Cup semi-final against Wakefield Trinity
drew an estimated 16,000 supporters to Crown Flatt which the local newspaper claimed to be the largest assemblage ever seen on a football ground in Yorkshire.
1881 saw the club's first success in the Yorkshire Challenge Cup
beating Huddersfield
, Bradford and Halifax
before an Alfred Newsome drop goal gave them victory over Wakefield Trinity
in the final.
When York paid a visit to Crown Flatt on 25 September 1886, the home team took to the field wearing white jerseys that incorporated the borough's coat of arms.
The Yorkshire Senior Competition was formed in 1892 and Dewsbury immediately became members. They made their Senior Competition début at Liversedge
on 10 September 1892, Dewsbury were beaten 2-10. The club struggled and finished in the bottom three due to financial problems. The arrival of competitive leagues meant that attendances were increasing connected to on-field success. Dewsbury failed to adapt to the new era: attendances from then onwards topped 2,000 only on rare occasions.
By 1895, Dewsbury were sporting blue and white. At the famous meeting at the George Hotel in Huddersfield, Dewsbury were the only members of the Yorkshire Senior Competition not to resign from the Rugby Football Union
instead requesting permission to consult further. At a special meeting convened at the King’s Arms Hotel, Market Place, on 2 September, they elected to remain in the Senior Competition and marginally improved their position in the league to 10th. Next season however they were back at the bottom.
On 22 November 1897, the General Committee of Dewsbury and Savile Cricket and Football Club elected to abandon rugby union with immediate effect. Of the 12 league matches contested by the club that season, all but one - and that a draw - were lost. In reply to the 156 points conceded, the team registered just two tries. The 0-5 loss to Otley
on 13 November 1897 was the final rugby union game played at Crown Flatt. By the time of its demise, the football section had contested more than 500 matches. They withdrew from the league concentrating on soccer instead.
club. The question was discussed at some length and over £100 in donations was promised. Ironically it was local rivals Batley
who helped Dewsbury gain election to the Northern Union. They were fully supportive of Dewsbury's bid and obviously looked forward to rekindling the rivalry, as well as their pockets, with the derby matches and also to thank the old Dewsbury supporters who had switched their support to Batley's Mount Pleasant ground during the two or three preceding seasons.
At a subsequent discussion at the parish church school on 5 May, it was announced that members of the committee had met with Mr Lipscomb, agent to Lord Savile, and had signed an agreement to lease the Crown Flatt estate as from 1 July 1898. Red, amber and black were adopted as club colours during June 1898.
On 3 September 1898, the players travelled to Normanton
for their Northern Union match, they were beaten 3-16. The first home game took place the very next Saturday with visitors Kinsley emerging victorious by a margin of 13-5. During the rest of the season the team played in Yorkshire No. 2 Competition.
In 1901-02 the Lancashire and Yorkshire leagues were combined to form a second division. Dewsbury was one of the new teams to join the second division.
The club's first major success came in 1912, when they beat Oldham
8-5 in the Challenge Cup
final at Headingley.
They beat the visiting Australasian team of the 1921-22 Kangaroo tour 13-6.
When, in 1922, the Northern Union renamed itself the Rugby Football League, the club adopted the title of Dewsbury Rugby Football Club.
In 1929, Dewsbury also had the honour of playing in the first Wembley Challenge Cup final, losing 13-2 to Wigan.
Managed by Eddie Waring
, Dewsbury enjoyed huge success during the Second World War when their side was boosted by the inclusion of a number of big-name guest players. Dewsbury won the Wartime Emergency League in 1941-42 and again the following season, though that championship was declared null and void when it was discovered they had played an ineligible player. They were also runners-up in 1943-44.
was player/coach at Dewsbury from 1944-47. James "Jimmy" Ledgard
left Dewsbury for a record fee of £2,650 in January 1948, bought by Leigh
.
In 1972, Maurice Bamford
arrived at Dewsbury as a coach. Tommy Smales was the coach in 1973. Dewsbury's only championship title came in the 1972–73 season when they beat Leeds
in the play-off final at Bradford Northern's Odsal Stadium
22-13. They had been hammered 36-9 by the same opposition in the Yorkshire Cup final earlier that season. Dewsbury, captained by Mike Stephenson
finished 8th in the league but the title was to be decided through a series of play-offs in which they also defeated Oldham
, Featherstone Rovers
and Warrington
on their way to glory.
Many people argued about the validity of the centenary celebrations held in 1975, holding that the centenary should not have been held until 1998. On 13 September 1988, at about 4pm, three youths deliberately set fire to the historic wooden stand erected in 1914. The stand was in excellent condition, the club having just spent £25,000 bringing it up to the required safety standards. The club also lost everything gathered over the past 113 years; programmes, records and memorabilia. However, the fire enabled the club to build a new state of the art stadium at Owl Lane, Shaw Cross, Dewsbury and on the 14 April 1991 Dewsbury played their last home game at Crown Flatt against Barrow
. As a result, they arranged to play their home games at Batley
's Mount Pleasant while the new ground was being built.
The club played their first home game at the new Crown Flatt stadium (often erroneously called New Crown Flatt) on 6 September 1994 in front of a full-house against Barrow. Dewsbury finished 7th that season in the 16-team second division with the likes of Eddie Rombo and Les Holliday wowing the fans at their new home under coach Norman Smith.
Smith was replaced towards the end of that season by Tony Fisher whose time in charge of the first team will be remembered for the recruitment of several South African players. Having coached the national side during the 1995 world cup, Fisher brought Jaco Booysen, Kobus Van Deventer, Tim Fourie, Guy Coombe and Pierr Van Wyk to Dewsbury. Despite the hype surrounding their arrival, the imports failed to make a lasting impression at the club and returned home the following year.
That season, Rugby League's centenary year, the teams outside the Premiership were divided into two divisions. Dewsbury competed in the first division but finished bottom - A New Year's Eve victory over local rivals Huddersfield and the form of New Zealand prop Glen Bell being two of the season's few highlights.
A momentous shift in the sport, triggered by significant investment from Rupert Murdoch
's News Corporation
brought about the formation of the Super League
and a switch to summer rugby. Despite finishing bottom the previous season, Dewsbury retained their place in the first division and, in the first season of a new era for the sport, the team, now coached by former player Neil Kelly, finished 9th.
Rams On The Charge
It was under Kelly that the club would eventually blossom. Increased investment over the next three years saw the club steadily climb the league table season upon season. A 6th place finish in 1997 was bettered the following year when the newly named Dewsbury 'Rams' finished 3rd, narrowly missing out on the division's play-off final.
With Richard Agar
and Barry Eaton
guiding the team around the park and Australians ralians Brett Patterson and Brendan Williams giving the Rams real strike power, the club's on-the-pitch fortunes had hit a 15 year peak. Hopes were high of a push for a place in the Super League over the next few seasons, with Neil Kelly and chairman Bob McDermott pressing on with an ambitious recruitment drive.
In 1999, the Rams finished top of the Northern Ford Premiership, the league below the Super League
, reaching the Grand Final at Headingley
which unfortunately ended in a narrow defeat to local rivals Hunslet Hawks
. The following year the Rams came back even stronger, winning the Trans-Pennine Cup
with victory over Leigh Centurions
and topping the league for the second season in a row. The club, once again, reached the Grand Final - this time taking on Leigh at Bury FC's Gigg Lane
stadium. A dramatic, late drop-goal from man of the match Richard Agar won the day for the Rams giving players, supporters and officials genuine hope of a place in Super League.
Unable to meet the minimum stadium requirements for Super League (as part of Rugby Football League
's new 'framing the future' guidelines), the Rams proposed a ground share with Sheffield Eagles
, playing home games at their Don Valley Stadium
while their own stadium was improved. This proposal was turned down by the RFL and the club was left in a precarious position, having invested heavily in playing staff in the hope of taking their place among the sport's elite. The Rams withdrew their application following this initial rejection and were resigned to remaining in the lower leagues.
Into the 21st Century
The new century brought with it a gradual decline in the Rams' fortunes on and off the pitch. After being denied entry into Super League, the club's head coach, Neil Kelly, who had guided the team to its recent success moved onto ambitious rivals Widnes Vikings
. Kelly took with him many of the heroes of the 2000 grand final winning squad and, over the two seasons that followed, his multiple-trophy winning side was gradually broken-up to help ease the club's soaring wage bills. The failure to bring Super League to the town came at a heavy price and chairman Bob McDermott left the club in a sorry state, having failed to stabilise it financially.
Roy Sampson and Andy Fisher both had spells coaching the club during this period but neither could do much to halt the Rams' inevitable decline. Dewsbury finished a respectable 6th in 2001 but found themselves in a relegation play-off the following season. The Rams beat Workington Town
25-16, thanks, in no small part, to a hat-trick from wily hooker Jimmy Elston, and, as a result, took their place in National League 1
.
Despite fantastic performances from Danny Brough
, Jimmy Elston, Frank Watene
and the vastly experienced Richard Slater, the Rams were relegated the following year. Andy Fisher's position as player coach had become increasingly tenuous and it was felt a new start was needed to get the club heading in the right direction again.
The financial constraints the club was under by this point were so great that incumbent chairman Mark Sawyer had suggested that the side would be better suited to "take a year out" in order to find its feet financially. The club instead opted to field a side made up predominantly of local amateurs and, under new coach Andy Kelly
, found the going tough in 2004, as their final lowly league position suggested. Plus points during an otherwise forgettable season were the return to the club of popular second rower Kevin Crouthers
and the 15 tries of half back Adam Thaler.
After a season in the wilderness, the club was now ready to stage a fightback. A head turning recruitment drive saw the Rams bring in several local ex-Super League stars in the shape of Francis Maloney
, Ryan Sheridan
, Darren Rogers
and Warren Jowitt
. The arrival of such big names galvanised the club and, with further recruitment from the local amateur scene, coach Kelly guided the Rams to a 2nd place finish. The season ended with a narrow defeat in the divisional play-off final to local rivals Batley Bulldogs
which would consign them to another season in National League 2. Despite the campaign ultimately ending in disappointment, Dewsbury had come a long way in just 12 months and hopes were high of going one better in 2007.
Happily, these hopes became a reality the following season as the Rams clinched promotion to National League 1
, completing a remarkable turnaround for the club. Under Andy Kelly's guidance, with outstanding contributions coming from the returning Frank Watene and veteran Francis Maloney, Dewsbury won 19 of their 22 matches to be crowned champions. The following year the Rams consolidated their position in the league above, finishing 7th with Dean Lawford and Josh Weeden the stand-out performers in Dewsbury colours.
2008 began with high hopes following the acquisition of highly rated Australian prop Aaron Trinder, Cook Islands international Tere Glassie and Super League full-back Mark Field. The season, however, was blighted with injuries to key players whilst several others did not perform to expectations. Coach Kelly left the club by mutual consent midway through the season with the Rams languishing at the foot of the table. Former fans favourite Warren Jowitt was brought in to try to turn the club's season around. Despite a brief revival, the Rams' fate was sealed with two games remaining and Dewsbury, once again, had to plan for life in the third tier of professional Rugby League in the newly named Championship 1
.
An end of season clear out of the club's high earners by coach Jowitt greatly reduced the Rams' wage bill allowing him to bring in Rob Spicer from York City Knights
, Adam Hayes from Sheffield Eagles
and several more young, lesser known players. The campaign that followed will long be remembered by Dewsbury supporters. The club winning all 18 league matches, becoming only the second team in rugby league history to do so. Following an outstanding 2009, the club have been promoted and are now preparing for life in the Championship
.
Dewsbury Rams play their home games at the Tetley's Stadium on Owl Lane in Dewsbury. The current name reflects a sponsorship deal with Tetley's Brewery
that's been in place since 2005. Previously the ground was known as 'Ram Stadium' and, before that, 'New Crown Flatt'.
The stadium was opened in 1994 and consists of a standing and seated stand. It has an official capacity of 3,000, although extra space is often utilised on the grass bankings behind both sets of posts in the summer.
, received a Testimonial match
, were international representatives before, or after, their time at Dewsbury, or are notable outside of rugby league.
Rugby league
Rugby league football, usually called rugby league, is a full contact sport played by two teams of thirteen players on a rectangular grass field. One of the two codes of rugby football, it originated in England in 1895 by a split from Rugby Football Union over paying players...
club based in the West Yorkshire
West Yorkshire
West Yorkshire is a metropolitan county within the Yorkshire and the Humber region of England with a population of 2.2 million. West Yorkshire came into existence as a metropolitan county in 1974 after the passage of the Local Government Act 1972....
town of Dewsbury
Dewsbury
Dewsbury is a minster town in the Metropolitan Borough of Kirklees, in West Yorkshire, England. It is to the west of Wakefield, east of Huddersfield and south of Leeds...
. They are arguably most famous for becoming Champions in 1972-73 after finishing the regular season in 8th place. In the playoffs they beat Featherstone away, Warrington away, and then Leeds in the Championship Final, 22-13 at Odsal, Bradford. They were captained that season by Mike 'Stevo' Stephenson who scored twice in the final. They play their home games at the Tetley's Stadium
Crown Flatt
Crown Flatt, known as the Tetley's Stadium for sponsorship purposes, is a rugby league stadium on Owl Lane in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, England. It is the home of Dewsbury rugby league club...
, on Owl Lane.
Dewsbury Athletic and Football Club
The idea of establishing a rugby football club in Dewsbury originated among a few friends at a meeting at the Little Saddle Inn in 1875. Established with immediate effect, Dewsbury Athletic and Football Club enrolled between 30 and 40 members.On 20 November 1875, the first recorded match of Dewsbury Athletic and Football Club took place when they played Heckmondwike Church Society XV and lost by one goal, six tries and eight touch downs to nil. The first home game, it is generally held, took place on 4 December 1875 in a field off Sugar Lane, opposite the future Crown Flatt. In a 13-a-side "scratch" game, the two outfits - one selected by the Captain and the other by the Vice-Captain - fought out a draw. The club soon realised they needed a ground and the following year secured a sub tenancy at Crown Flatt
Crown Flatt
Crown Flatt, known as the Tetley's Stadium for sponsorship purposes, is a rugby league stadium on Owl Lane in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, England. It is the home of Dewsbury rugby league club...
for £200.
During the course of the 1879/80 season the club colours changed from blue and cardinal to black, crimson and yellow.
On 27 March 1880, the Yorkshire Cup semi-final against Wakefield Trinity
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats are a professional rugby league club that plays in the European Super League and is based in Wakefield. They achieved promotion in 1999 and have remained in the League since. They are known to their fans as Wakey, Trinity, Wildcats, or historically The Dreadnoughts...
drew an estimated 16,000 supporters to Crown Flatt which the local newspaper claimed to be the largest assemblage ever seen on a football ground in Yorkshire.
1881 saw the club's first success in the Yorkshire Challenge Cup
Yorkshire Cup (rugby union)
The Yorkshire Cup is an English Rugby Football Union competition founded in 1878. It is open to all eligible clubs in the Yorkshire area. It was initially known as the Yorkshire Challenge Cup.-History:...
beating Huddersfield
Huddersfield Giants
Huddersfield Giants are a professional rugby league club from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire who play in the European Super League competition. They play their home games at the Galpharm Stadium which is shared with Huddersfield Town F.C....
, Bradford and Halifax
Halifax RLFC
Halifax RLFC is one of the most historic rugby league clubs in the game, formed over a century ago, in 1873 in the Yorkshire town of Halifax. Known as 'Fax', the official club colours are blue and white hoops, blue shorts and blue socks . They share The Shay stadium with football club FC Halifax Town...
before an Alfred Newsome drop goal gave them victory over Wakefield Trinity
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats are a professional rugby league club that plays in the European Super League and is based in Wakefield. They achieved promotion in 1999 and have remained in the League since. They are known to their fans as Wakey, Trinity, Wildcats, or historically The Dreadnoughts...
in the final.
When York paid a visit to Crown Flatt on 25 September 1886, the home team took to the field wearing white jerseys that incorporated the borough's coat of arms.
Dewsbury and Savile Cricket and Football Club
Crown Flatt was rapidly gaining the reputation as one of the best-equipped ground in Yorkshire. This was further enhanced when the club purchased the famous "Noah's Ark" stand at a cost of £250. In 1888, the club amalgamated with Savile Cricket Club and United Clerks’ Cricket Club to form Dewsbury and Savile Cricket and Football Club.The Yorkshire Senior Competition was formed in 1892 and Dewsbury immediately became members. They made their Senior Competition début at Liversedge
Liversedge
Liversedge is a township in the former parish of Birstall, in the metropolitan borough of Kirklees, West Yorkshire, England. Liversedge lies between Cleckheaton and Heckmondwike about southwest of Leeds.-Settlements within Liversedge:...
on 10 September 1892, Dewsbury were beaten 2-10. The club struggled and finished in the bottom three due to financial problems. The arrival of competitive leagues meant that attendances were increasing connected to on-field success. Dewsbury failed to adapt to the new era: attendances from then onwards topped 2,000 only on rare occasions.
By 1895, Dewsbury were sporting blue and white. At the famous meeting at the George Hotel in Huddersfield, Dewsbury were the only members of the Yorkshire Senior Competition not to resign from the Rugby Football Union
Rugby Football Union
The Rugby Football Union was founded in 1871 as the governing body for the sport of rugby union, and performed as the international governing body prior to the formation of the International Rugby Board in 1886...
instead requesting permission to consult further. At a special meeting convened at the King’s Arms Hotel, Market Place, on 2 September, they elected to remain in the Senior Competition and marginally improved their position in the league to 10th. Next season however they were back at the bottom.
On 22 November 1897, the General Committee of Dewsbury and Savile Cricket and Football Club elected to abandon rugby union with immediate effect. Of the 12 league matches contested by the club that season, all but one - and that a draw - were lost. In reply to the 156 points conceded, the team registered just two tries. The 0-5 loss to Otley
Otley
-Transport:The main roads through the town are the A660 to the south east, which connects Otley to Bramhope, Adel and Leeds city centre, and the A65 to the west, which goes to Ilkley and Skipton. The A6038 heads to Guiseley, Shipley and Bradford, connecting with the A65...
on 13 November 1897 was the final rugby union game played at Crown Flatt. By the time of its demise, the football section had contested more than 500 matches. They withdrew from the league concentrating on soccer instead.
New club formed
On 21 April 1898 an historic meeting was held at the Black Bull public house to consider the possibility of forming a new Northern UnionRugby Football League
The Rugby Football League is the governing body for professional rugby league football in England. Based at Red Hall in Leeds, it administers the England national rugby league team, the Challenge Cup, Super League and the Rugby League Championships...
club. The question was discussed at some length and over £100 in donations was promised. Ironically it was local rivals Batley
Batley Bulldogs
Batley Bulldogs are an English professional rugby league club from Batley, West Yorkshire. They currently play in the Co-operative Championship. Batley is one of the original twenty-two rugby football clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895...
who helped Dewsbury gain election to the Northern Union. They were fully supportive of Dewsbury's bid and obviously looked forward to rekindling the rivalry, as well as their pockets, with the derby matches and also to thank the old Dewsbury supporters who had switched their support to Batley's Mount Pleasant ground during the two or three preceding seasons.
At a subsequent discussion at the parish church school on 5 May, it was announced that members of the committee had met with Mr Lipscomb, agent to Lord Savile, and had signed an agreement to lease the Crown Flatt estate as from 1 July 1898. Red, amber and black were adopted as club colours during June 1898.
On 3 September 1898, the players travelled to Normanton
Normanton
Normanton is the name of several places:In England:*Normanton, Derbyshire*Normanton, Leicestershire*Normanton, Lincolnshire*Normanton, Nottinghamshire*Normanton, Rutland*Normanton, West Yorkshire**Normanton...
for their Northern Union match, they were beaten 3-16. The first home game took place the very next Saturday with visitors Kinsley emerging victorious by a margin of 13-5. During the rest of the season the team played in Yorkshire No. 2 Competition.
In 1901-02 the Lancashire and Yorkshire leagues were combined to form a second division. Dewsbury was one of the new teams to join the second division.
The club's first major success came in 1912, when they beat Oldham
Oldham Roughyeds
Oldham Roughyeds is an English professional rugby league club based in Oldham, Greater Manchester. They currently play in the Championship One. Oldham is one of the original twenty-two rugby clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895....
8-5 in the Challenge Cup
Challenge Cup
The Challenge Cup is a knockout cup competition for rugby league clubs organised by the Rugby Football League. Originally it was contested only by British teams but in recent years has been expanded to allow teams from France and Russia to take part....
final at Headingley.
They beat the visiting Australasian team of the 1921-22 Kangaroo tour 13-6.
When, in 1922, the Northern Union renamed itself the Rugby Football League, the club adopted the title of Dewsbury Rugby Football Club.
In 1929, Dewsbury also had the honour of playing in the first Wembley Challenge Cup final, losing 13-2 to Wigan.
Managed by Eddie Waring
Eddie Waring
Edward Marsden "Eddie" Waring was a British rugby league football coach, commentator and television presenter....
, Dewsbury enjoyed huge success during the Second World War when their side was boosted by the inclusion of a number of big-name guest players. Dewsbury won the Wartime Emergency League in 1941-42 and again the following season, though that championship was declared null and void when it was discovered they had played an ineligible player. They were also runners-up in 1943-44.
Post World War Two
Vic HeyVic Hey
Vic Hey born Liverpool, New South Wales, was an Australian rugby league national and state representative five-eighth and later a successful first-grade and national coach. His Australian club playing career commenced with the Western Suburbs Magpies and concluded with the Parramatta Eels. In...
was player/coach at Dewsbury from 1944-47. James "Jimmy" Ledgard
Jimmy Ledgard
James "Jimmy" A. Ledgard was a Rugby League World Cup winning for; Dewsbury, Leigh, England, and Great Britain,He left Dewsbury for a record fee of £2,650 in January 1948, bought by Leigh, .Ledgard made 334 appearances for Leigh after joining the club from Dewsbury in 1948, scoring a record 1,043...
left Dewsbury for a record fee of £2,650 in January 1948, bought by Leigh
Leigh Centurions
Leigh Centurions is an English professional rugby league club based in Leigh, Greater Manchester who play in the Co-operative Championship.The club was founded in 1878 as Leigh Rugby Football Club and is one of the original twenty-two clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in...
.
In 1972, Maurice Bamford
Maurice Bamford
Maurice Bamford is a former rugby league player and coach. He also went on to write several books on rugby league.-Playing career:He attended Sacred Heart Roman Catholic School in Leeds...
arrived at Dewsbury as a coach. Tommy Smales was the coach in 1973. Dewsbury's only championship title came in the 1972–73 season when they beat Leeds
Leeds Rhinos
Leeds Rhinos is an English professional rugby league football club based in Leeds, West Yorkshire. The club won the 2011 Super League and became the most successful club in the Super League era, beating St Helens 32-16 on 8th October 2011. Formed in 1890, Leeds competes in Europe's Super League...
in the play-off final at Bradford Northern's Odsal Stadium
Odsal Stadium
Odsal Stadium is a stadium situated in Odsal, Bradford in West Yorkshire, England. The venue is used for rugby league and has been the home ground of Bradford Bulls/Bradford Northern since 1934...
22-13. They had been hammered 36-9 by the same opposition in the Yorkshire Cup final earlier that season. Dewsbury, captained by Mike Stephenson
Mike Stephenson
Michael "Mike" Stephenson, also commonly known as Stevo, is an English Rugby League World Cup winning Rugby League, and presenter/commentator on British satellite television channel Sky Sports who also represented Great Britain in the sport.Stevo, the nickname that he is commonly known as on TV...
finished 8th in the league but the title was to be decided through a series of play-offs in which they also defeated Oldham
Oldham Roughyeds
Oldham Roughyeds is an English professional rugby league club based in Oldham, Greater Manchester. They currently play in the Championship One. Oldham is one of the original twenty-two rugby clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895....
, Featherstone Rovers
Featherstone Rovers
Featherstone Rovers are a semi-professional rugby league club, based in Featherstone, West Yorkshire, England. They currently play in the Championship. The Rovers are one of the last vestiges of "small town teams" that were once common in rugby league during the early twentieth century...
and Warrington
Warrington Wolves
Warrington Wolves are a professional rugby league football club based in Warrington, England that competes in Super League. They play at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, having moved there from Wilderspool in 2003....
on their way to glory.
Many people argued about the validity of the centenary celebrations held in 1975, holding that the centenary should not have been held until 1998. On 13 September 1988, at about 4pm, three youths deliberately set fire to the historic wooden stand erected in 1914. The stand was in excellent condition, the club having just spent £25,000 bringing it up to the required safety standards. The club also lost everything gathered over the past 113 years; programmes, records and memorabilia. However, the fire enabled the club to build a new state of the art stadium at Owl Lane, Shaw Cross, Dewsbury and on the 14 April 1991 Dewsbury played their last home game at Crown Flatt against Barrow
Barrow Raiders
Barrow Raiders are an English professional rugby league team from Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, who are coached by Dave Clark. Formed in 1875 as Barrow Football Club, the club is the oldest of the current professional sports teams in Cumbria....
. As a result, they arranged to play their home games at Batley
Batley Bulldogs
Batley Bulldogs are an English professional rugby league club from Batley, West Yorkshire. They currently play in the Co-operative Championship. Batley is one of the original twenty-two rugby football clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895...
's Mount Pleasant while the new ground was being built.
New Stadium, New Era
TransitionThe club played their first home game at the new Crown Flatt stadium (often erroneously called New Crown Flatt) on 6 September 1994 in front of a full-house against Barrow. Dewsbury finished 7th that season in the 16-team second division with the likes of Eddie Rombo and Les Holliday wowing the fans at their new home under coach Norman Smith.
Smith was replaced towards the end of that season by Tony Fisher whose time in charge of the first team will be remembered for the recruitment of several South African players. Having coached the national side during the 1995 world cup, Fisher brought Jaco Booysen, Kobus Van Deventer, Tim Fourie, Guy Coombe and Pierr Van Wyk to Dewsbury. Despite the hype surrounding their arrival, the imports failed to make a lasting impression at the club and returned home the following year.
That season, Rugby League's centenary year, the teams outside the Premiership were divided into two divisions. Dewsbury competed in the first division but finished bottom - A New Year's Eve victory over local rivals Huddersfield and the form of New Zealand prop Glen Bell being two of the season's few highlights.
A momentous shift in the sport, triggered by significant investment from Rupert Murdoch
Rupert Murdoch
Keith Rupert Murdoch, AC, KSG is an Australian-American business magnate. He is the founder and Chairman and CEO of , the world's second-largest media conglomerate....
's News Corporation
News Corporation
News Corporation or News Corp. is an American multinational media conglomerate. It is the world's second-largest media conglomerate as of 2011 in terms of revenue, and the world's third largest in entertainment as of 2009, although the BBC remains the world's largest broadcaster...
brought about the formation of the Super League
Super League
Super League is the top-level professional rugby league football club competition in Europe. As a result of sponsorship from engage Mutual Assurance the competition is currently officially known as the engage Super League. The League features fourteen teams: thirteen from England and one from...
and a switch to summer rugby. Despite finishing bottom the previous season, Dewsbury retained their place in the first division and, in the first season of a new era for the sport, the team, now coached by former player Neil Kelly, finished 9th.
Rams On The Charge
It was under Kelly that the club would eventually blossom. Increased investment over the next three years saw the club steadily climb the league table season upon season. A 6th place finish in 1997 was bettered the following year when the newly named Dewsbury 'Rams' finished 3rd, narrowly missing out on the division's play-off final.
With Richard Agar
Richard Agar
Richard Agar is a British rugby league football coach and former player. He is the head coach of Super League side Hull. Richard is the son of retired player coach, Allan Agar.Agar played for Featherstone, Dewsbury and Widnes....
and Barry Eaton
Barry Eaton
Barry Eaton is a former Welsh international rugby league player who is currently assistant coach at Crusaders. He was a .Barry Eaton played in all but three of Widnes Vikings' 28 matches in their first season in Super League...
guiding the team around the park and Australians ralians Brett Patterson and Brendan Williams giving the Rams real strike power, the club's on-the-pitch fortunes had hit a 15 year peak. Hopes were high of a push for a place in the Super League over the next few seasons, with Neil Kelly and chairman Bob McDermott pressing on with an ambitious recruitment drive.
In 1999, the Rams finished top of the Northern Ford Premiership, the league below the Super League
Super League
Super League is the top-level professional rugby league football club competition in Europe. As a result of sponsorship from engage Mutual Assurance the competition is currently officially known as the engage Super League. The League features fourteen teams: thirteen from England and one from...
, reaching the Grand Final at Headingley
Headingley
Headingley is a suburb of Leeds in West Yorkshire, England. It is approximately two miles out of the city centre, to the north west along the A660 road...
which unfortunately ended in a narrow defeat to local rivals Hunslet Hawks
Hunslet Hawks
Hunslet Hawks is a professional rugby league club based in Hunslet, West Yorkshire, England. The club, sometimes known as 'the Parksiders' after their former stadium, are currently champions of Championship One.-History:-Early years:...
. The following year the Rams came back even stronger, winning the Trans-Pennine Cup
Trans-Pennine Cup
The Trans-Pennine Cup was a short-lived competition for professional British rugby league clubs outside Super League. It was played for during the period in which all non-Super League professional clubs were grouped into a single competition, the Northern Ford Premiership: 1998-2001.The competition...
with victory over Leigh Centurions
Leigh Centurions
Leigh Centurions is an English professional rugby league club based in Leigh, Greater Manchester who play in the Co-operative Championship.The club was founded in 1878 as Leigh Rugby Football Club and is one of the original twenty-two clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in...
and topping the league for the second season in a row. The club, once again, reached the Grand Final - this time taking on Leigh at Bury FC's Gigg Lane
Gigg Lane
Gigg Lane is an all-seater football stadium in Bury, Greater Manchester, England. Historically within Lancashire, it was built for Bury F.C. in 1885, and has been their home ever since.-History:...
stadium. A dramatic, late drop-goal from man of the match Richard Agar won the day for the Rams giving players, supporters and officials genuine hope of a place in Super League.
Unable to meet the minimum stadium requirements for Super League (as part of Rugby Football League
Rugby Football League
The Rugby Football League is the governing body for professional rugby league football in England. Based at Red Hall in Leeds, it administers the England national rugby league team, the Challenge Cup, Super League and the Rugby League Championships...
's new 'framing the future' guidelines), the Rams proposed a ground share with Sheffield Eagles
Sheffield Eagles
Sheffield Eagles RLFC are an English rugby league club based in the South Yorkshire city of Sheffield. They currently play in the Co-operative Championship. Their home games are played at Bramall Lane after leaving Don Valley Stadium in late 2009....
, playing home games at their Don Valley Stadium
Don Valley Stadium
The Don Valley Stadium is a stadium in Sheffield, England and is the home of Rotherham United F.C.. The stadium is an athletics stadium which has hosted major UK Athletic events and the 1991 World Student Games. Sheffield Eagles RLFC and Parramore Sports FC also use the stadium. It was designed by...
while their own stadium was improved. This proposal was turned down by the RFL and the club was left in a precarious position, having invested heavily in playing staff in the hope of taking their place among the sport's elite. The Rams withdrew their application following this initial rejection and were resigned to remaining in the lower leagues.
Into the 21st Century
The new century brought with it a gradual decline in the Rams' fortunes on and off the pitch. After being denied entry into Super League, the club's head coach, Neil Kelly, who had guided the team to its recent success moved onto ambitious rivals Widnes Vikings
Widnes Vikings
Widnes Vikings RLFC are an English professional rugby league club based in Widnes, Cheshire. They currently play in the Engage Super League, the top tier of European rugby league, after being awarded a license to compete in the top-flight Super League from 2012 onward...
. Kelly took with him many of the heroes of the 2000 grand final winning squad and, over the two seasons that followed, his multiple-trophy winning side was gradually broken-up to help ease the club's soaring wage bills. The failure to bring Super League to the town came at a heavy price and chairman Bob McDermott left the club in a sorry state, having failed to stabilise it financially.
Roy Sampson and Andy Fisher both had spells coaching the club during this period but neither could do much to halt the Rams' inevitable decline. Dewsbury finished a respectable 6th in 2001 but found themselves in a relegation play-off the following season. The Rams beat Workington Town
Workington Town
Workington Town is a professional rugby league club playing in Workington in West Cumbria. They play in the Championship 1. Their stadium is called Derwent Park, which they share with Workington Comets, a speedway team....
25-16, thanks, in no small part, to a hat-trick from wily hooker Jimmy Elston, and, as a result, took their place in National League 1
National League 1
National League 1, , is the third level of domestic rugby union competition in England.This is the lowest level of the English rugby union league system which is nationwide...
.
Despite fantastic performances from Danny Brough
Danny Brough
Danny Brough is a Dewsbury born English international rugby league footballer.Danny Brough plays for the Huddersfield Giants in Super League. He has also played for the Scotland...
, Jimmy Elston, Frank Watene
Frank Watene
Frank Watene is a professional rugby league footballer who at has played for the Auckland Warriors, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Castleford Tigers, Dewsbury Rams, and Halifax RLFC at club level, playing at Prop forward or Second-row forward.-Early years:...
and the vastly experienced Richard Slater, the Rams were relegated the following year. Andy Fisher's position as player coach had become increasingly tenuous and it was felt a new start was needed to get the club heading in the right direction again.
The financial constraints the club was under by this point were so great that incumbent chairman Mark Sawyer had suggested that the side would be better suited to "take a year out" in order to find its feet financially. The club instead opted to field a side made up predominantly of local amateurs and, under new coach Andy Kelly
Andy Kelly
Andy Kelly is a former American football quarterback in the Arena Football League. He played in the AFL for fifteen seasons. He also played for two seasons for the Rhein Fire of the former World League of American Football....
, found the going tough in 2004, as their final lowly league position suggested. Plus points during an otherwise forgettable season were the return to the club of popular second rower Kevin Crouthers
Kevin Crouthers
Kevin Crouthers is a former professional rugby league footballer who at club level has played for Bradford Bulls, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Sheffield Eagles, London Broncos, Warrington Wolves, Chorley Lynx, Dewsbury Rams, and Batley Bulldogs, playing at , or /, i.e...
and the 15 tries of half back Adam Thaler.
After a season in the wilderness, the club was now ready to stage a fightback. A head turning recruitment drive saw the Rams bring in several local ex-Super League stars in the shape of Francis Maloney
Francis Maloney (rugby league)
Francis Maloney is an English rugby league player for the Batley Bulldogs in National League One. He plays as a stand-off and can operate as a centre...
, Ryan Sheridan
Ryan Sheridan
Ryan Sheridan is a former rugby league player.Sheridan was an Ireland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.Leeds Career :Ryan Sheridan was one of the most influential players in the late 1990s for the Rhinos...
, Darren Rogers
Darren Rogers
Darren J. Rogers is an English former professional footballer who played 91 games in the Football League representing West Bromwich Albion, Birmingham City, Wycombe Wanderers and Walsall. He played as a defender.-Career:...
and Warren Jowitt
Warren Jowitt
Warren Jowitt is a professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s, and coach of the 2000s who at club level has played for Stanley Rangers, Bradford Bulls, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Salford City Reds, Hull, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at , i.e...
. The arrival of such big names galvanised the club and, with further recruitment from the local amateur scene, coach Kelly guided the Rams to a 2nd place finish. The season ended with a narrow defeat in the divisional play-off final to local rivals Batley Bulldogs
Batley Bulldogs
Batley Bulldogs are an English professional rugby league club from Batley, West Yorkshire. They currently play in the Co-operative Championship. Batley is one of the original twenty-two rugby football clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895...
which would consign them to another season in National League 2. Despite the campaign ultimately ending in disappointment, Dewsbury had come a long way in just 12 months and hopes were high of going one better in 2007.
Happily, these hopes became a reality the following season as the Rams clinched promotion to National League 1
National League 1
National League 1, , is the third level of domestic rugby union competition in England.This is the lowest level of the English rugby union league system which is nationwide...
, completing a remarkable turnaround for the club. Under Andy Kelly's guidance, with outstanding contributions coming from the returning Frank Watene and veteran Francis Maloney, Dewsbury won 19 of their 22 matches to be crowned champions. The following year the Rams consolidated their position in the league above, finishing 7th with Dean Lawford and Josh Weeden the stand-out performers in Dewsbury colours.
2008 began with high hopes following the acquisition of highly rated Australian prop Aaron Trinder, Cook Islands international Tere Glassie and Super League full-back Mark Field. The season, however, was blighted with injuries to key players whilst several others did not perform to expectations. Coach Kelly left the club by mutual consent midway through the season with the Rams languishing at the foot of the table. Former fans favourite Warren Jowitt was brought in to try to turn the club's season around. Despite a brief revival, the Rams' fate was sealed with two games remaining and Dewsbury, once again, had to plan for life in the third tier of professional Rugby League in the newly named Championship 1
Championship 1
Championship 1, known as The Co-operative Championship 1 due to sponsorship by The Co-operative Group, is a rugby league competition based in the United Kingdom. It acts as the country's third-tier competition behind the Championship, with which it has a system of promotion and relegation. It is...
.
An end of season clear out of the club's high earners by coach Jowitt greatly reduced the Rams' wage bill allowing him to bring in Rob Spicer from York City Knights
York City Knights
York City Knights Rugby League Club is a British professional rugby league club hailing from York. They play at the Huntington Stadium, situated to the north of York city centre...
, Adam Hayes from Sheffield Eagles
Sheffield Eagles
Sheffield Eagles RLFC are an English rugby league club based in the South Yorkshire city of Sheffield. They currently play in the Co-operative Championship. Their home games are played at Bramall Lane after leaving Don Valley Stadium in late 2009....
and several more young, lesser known players. The campaign that followed will long be remembered by Dewsbury supporters. The club winning all 18 league matches, becoming only the second team in rugby league history to do so. Following an outstanding 2009, the club have been promoted and are now preparing for life in the Championship
Championship
Championship is a term used in sport to refer to various forms of competition in which the aim is to decide which individual or team is the champion.- Title match system :...
.
Current Season
After a poor string of results during the 2011 season the club finished in a relegation spot, but have survived in the Championship due to Barrow being demoted after a points reduction.Current Table
2012 Squad
- Jermaine Akaidere
- Ed Barber
- Dwayne Barker
- Luke Blake
- Austin Buchanan
- James Claire (dual-registration loan from Castleford Tigers)
- Craig Cook
- James Craven
- Steve Crossley
- Ryan Esders
- Ayden Faal
- George Flanagan
- Nick Fozzard
- Billy Harris (season-long loan from Castleford Tigers)
- Ben Jones
- Daniel Gaunt
- Matt Nicholson (season-long loan from Leeds Rhinos)
- Derrell Olpherts
- Danny Samuels
- Cain Southernwood (season-long loan from Bradford Bulls)
- Scott Spaven
- Rob Spicer
- Andy Smith
- Matthew Tebb
- Josh Tonks
- Michael Wainwright
- Pat Walker
Stadium
- See also Crown FlattCrown FlattCrown Flatt, known as the Tetley's Stadium for sponsorship purposes, is a rugby league stadium on Owl Lane in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, England. It is the home of Dewsbury rugby league club...
Dewsbury Rams play their home games at the Tetley's Stadium on Owl Lane in Dewsbury. The current name reflects a sponsorship deal with Tetley's Brewery
Tetley's Brewery
Tetley's Brewery was a large brewery in Leeds, West Yorkshire, England. The main product was Tetley's Bitter, although Skol and other beers were also made there.-History:...
that's been in place since 2005. Previously the ground was known as 'Ram Stadium' and, before that, 'New Crown Flatt'.
The stadium was opened in 1994 and consists of a standing and seated stand. It has an official capacity of 3,000, although extra space is often utilised on the grass bankings behind both sets of posts in the summer.
Major Honours
- Division Two Championship Champions: 1904/05
- Rugby League Challenge CupChallenge CupThe Challenge Cup is a knockout cup competition for rugby league clubs organised by the Rugby Football League. Originally it was contested only by British teams but in recent years has been expanded to allow teams from France and Russia to take part....
Winners: 1911/12, 1942/43 (2 times) - Yorkshire CupRugby league county cupsHistorically, British rugby league clubs competed for the Lancashire Cup and the Yorkshire Cup, known collectively as the county cups. The leading rugby clubs in Yorkshire had played in a cup competition for several years prior to the schism of 1895...
Runners-up: 1918-19, 1921–22, 1940–41, 1972–73 (4 times) - Yorkshire CupRugby league county cupsHistorically, British rugby league clubs competed for the Lancashire Cup and the Yorkshire Cup, known collectively as the county cups. The leading rugby clubs in Yorkshire had played in a cup competition for several years prior to the schism of 1895...
Winners: 1925/26, 1927/28, 1942/43 (3 times) - Championship Champions: 1972–73
- Yorkshire LeagueYorkshire LeagueYorkshire League may refer to*One of the rugby league county leagues which ran between 1895 and 1970 as the premier rugby league competitions in the United Kingdom.*The CMS Yorkshire league, an amateur rugby league competition in the United Kingdom....
: 1975/76 - BBC2 Floodlit TrophyBBC2 Floodlit TrophyThe BBC2 Floodlit Trophy was a competition for British rugby league clubs held between 1965 and 1980. It was designed specifically for television, and the then director of BBC2, broadcaster David Attenborough, was instrumental in its creation...
Finalists: 1975/76 - Northern Ford Premiership Grand Finalists: 1999
- Northern Ford Premiership League Leaders: 1999, 2000 (2 times)
- Northern Ford Premiership Champions: 2000
- Trans-Pennine CupTrans-Pennine CupThe Trans-Pennine Cup was a short-lived competition for professional British rugby league clubs outside Super League. It was played for during the period in which all non-Super League professional clubs were grouped into a single competition, the Northern Ford Premiership: 1998-2001.The competition...
Winners: 2000 - National League Two Runners-Up: 2005
- National League Two Champions: 2006
- Championships Club of the year: 2006, 2009
- Championship 1Championship 1Championship 1, known as The Co-operative Championship 1 due to sponsorship by The Co-operative Group, is a rugby league competition based in the United Kingdom. It acts as the country's third-tier competition behind the Championship, with which it has a system of promotion and relegation. It is...
Champions: 2009
Players earning International Caps while at Dewsbury
- Alan BatesAlan Bates (rugby league)Alan Bates is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1960s and '70s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, and at club level for Dewsbury, playing at , i.e...
(1972/73 Rugby Football League Championship Winner) won caps for Great Britain while at Dewsbury 1974 - Glenn BellGlenn BellGlenn Bell is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1980s and '90s who at representative level has played for Scotland, and at club level for Featherstone Rovers, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at , i.e. number 11 or 12.-International honours:...
won a cap for Scotland while at Dewsbury Rams in 1997 against France - Harry BeverleyHarry Beverley (rugby league)Glynn Harry Beverley is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1970s and '80s who at representative level has played for England, and at club level for Dewsbury, Workington Town, and Fulham RLFC, playing at , i.e...
won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1975 Australia, while at WorkingtonWorkington TownWorkington Town is a professional rugby league club playing in Workington in West Cumbria. They play in the Championship 1. Their stadium is called Derwent Park, which they share with Workington Comets, a speedway team....
1979 Wales - Harry BradshawHarry Bradshaw (rugby league)Harry Bradshaw is an English former professional Rugby League World Cup winning footballer of the 1950s who at representative level has played for England, and at club level for Dewsbury, and Huddersfield, playing at , i.e...
won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1953 Other Nations won caps for Great Britain while at HuddersfieldHuddersfield GiantsHuddersfield Giants are a professional rugby league club from Huddersfield, West Yorkshire who play in the European Super League competition. They play their home games at the Galpharm Stadium which is shared with Huddersfield Town F.C....
(World Cup 1954 Squad 0-caps) - Geoffrey "Geoff" ClarkGeoffrey ClarkGeoffrey "Geoff" Clark is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at representative level has played for England, and at club level for Dewsbury.-International honours:...
won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1949 Other Nations, 1951 Other Nations - Leonard "Len" ConstanceLeonard ConstanceLeonard "Len" Constance was a Lieutenant in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and a Welsh rugby union and professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at representative level played rugby union for , and at club level for Bristol, Portsmouth, Royal Navy, and Combined Services,...
won caps for Wales while at St. Helens, and Dewsbury 1948…1951 3-caps - Barry EatonBarry EatonBarry Eaton is a former Welsh international rugby league player who is currently assistant coach at Crusaders. He was a .Barry Eaton played in all but three of Widnes Vikings' 28 matches in their first season in Super League...
won caps for Wales while at 1999…2001 1-cap + 4-caps (sub)
- Frank GallagherFrank Gallagher (rugby league)Frank Gallagher is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1920s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, England, and Yorkshire, and at club level for Dewsbury, Batley, and Leeds, playing at /, /, , or /, i.e...
won caps for England while at BatleyBatley BulldogsBatley Bulldogs are an English professional rugby league club from Batley, West Yorkshire. They currently play in the Co-operative Championship. Batley is one of the original twenty-two rugby football clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895...
1923 Other Nations, 1924 Other Nations, 1925 Wales (2 matches), 1926 Wales, Other Nations, 1927 Wales, while at LeedsLeeds RhinosLeeds Rhinos is an English professional rugby league football club based in Leeds, West Yorkshire. The club won the 2011 Super League and became the most successful club in the Super League era, beating St Helens 32-16 on 8th October 2011. Formed in 1890, Leeds competes in Europe's Super League...
1928 Wales, and won caps for Great Britain while at Dewsbury 1920 Australia (3 matches), 1921–22 Australia, while at BatleyBatley BulldogsBatley Bulldogs are an English professional rugby league club from Batley, West Yorkshire. They currently play in the Co-operative Championship. Batley is one of the original twenty-two rugby football clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895...
1924 Australia (3 matches), New Zealand (3 matches), 1926-27 New Zealand (2 matches) - Nathan GrahamNathan GrahamNathan Graham is a former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who at representative level has played for Scotland, and at club level for Bradford Bulls, Dewsbury Rams, Featherstone Rovers, and Batley Bulldogs.-International honours:...
won caps for Scotland while at Bradford Bulls, Dewsbury, Featherstone Rovers, and Batley Bulldogs1998…2004 7-caps + 3-caps (sub) - Jeff GrayshonJeff GrayshonJeffrey "Jeff" Grayshon MBE is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1970s, '80s and '90s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, and England, and at club level for Dewsbury, Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Bradford, Leeds, Featherstone Rovers, and Batley,...
(1972/73 Rugby Football League Championship Winner) won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1975 Wales, France, New Zealand, Australia, Australia, 1977 Wales, while at BradfordBradford BullsBradford Bulls is a professional rugby league club based in the city of Bradford, West Yorkshire, England. They play in the European Super League and are currently joint 10th in the league....
1979 Wales, France, 1980 Wales (sub), France, 1981 Wales, and won caps for Great Britain while at BradfordBradford BullsBradford Bulls is a professional rugby league club based in the city of Bradford, West Yorkshire, England. They play in the European Super League and are currently joint 10th in the league....
1979 Australia (2 matches), New Zealand (3 matches), 1980 New Zealand (2 matches), 1981 France (2 matches), 1982 Australia (2 matches), while at LeedsLeeds RhinosLeeds Rhinos is an English professional rugby league football club based in Leeds, West Yorkshire. The club won the 2011 Super League and became the most successful club in the Super League era, beating St Helens 32-16 on 8th October 2011. Formed in 1890, Leeds competes in Europe's Super League...
1985 New Zealand (2 matches) - Roy LambertRoy LambertRoy Lambert is a Welsh former professional rugby league footballer of the 1950s who at representative level has played for Wales, and at club level for Neath RLFC, Dewsbury, and Warrington.-International honours:...
won caps for Wales while at Neath, Dewsbury, and Warrington 1950…1952 7-caps - James "Jimmy" LedgardJimmy LedgardJames "Jimmy" A. Ledgard was a Rugby League World Cup winning for; Dewsbury, Leigh, England, and Great Britain,He left Dewsbury for a record fee of £2,650 in January 1948, bought by Leigh, .Ledgard made 334 appearances for Leigh after joining the club from Dewsbury in 1948, scoring a record 1,043...
won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1947 France (2 matches), Wales, while at LeighLeigh CenturionsLeigh Centurions is an English professional rugby league club based in Leigh, Greater Manchester who play in the Co-operative Championship.The club was founded in 1878 as Leigh Rugby Football Club and is one of the original twenty-two clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in...
1948 Wales, 1949 France, Other Nations, 1951 Wales, France, 1952 Other Nations (2 matches), Wales, 1953 Wales, 1955 Other Nations, and won caps for Great Britain while at Dewsbury 1947 New Zealand (2 matches), while at LeighLeigh CenturionsLeigh Centurions is an English professional rugby league club based in Leigh, Greater Manchester who play in the Co-operative Championship.The club was founded in 1878 as Leigh Rugby Football Club and is one of the original twenty-two clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in...
1948 Australia, 1950 Australia (2 matches), New Zealand, 1951 New Zealand, 1954 France (2 matches), Australia, New Zealand (World Cup 1954 4-caps, 1-try, 13-goals) - Richard "Dicky" Evison LockwoodRichard Lockwood (rugby)Richard "Dicky" Evison Lockwood was a rugby union and professional rugby league footballer of the 1880s and '90s who at representative level played for England from 1887 to 1894, and was captain in January and February 1894, and at club level for Dewsbury , Heckmondwike /, and Wakefield Trinity...
won caps for England (RU)England national rugby union teamThe England national rugby union team represents England in rugby union. They compete in the annual Six Nations Championship with France, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, and Wales. They have won this championship on 26 occasions, 12 times winning the Grand Slam, making them the most successful team in...
while at Dewsbury 1889 New Zealand NativesNew Zealand Maori rugby union teamNew Zealand Māori is a rugby union team that traditionally plays teams touring New Zealand. A prerequisite for playing in this team is that the player is to have Māori whakapapa or genealogy. In the past this rule was not strictly applied. In the past non-Māori players who looked Māori were often...
02/02/1889 The Spa in Gloucester
- Ryan McDonaldRyan McDonaldRyan James McDonald is a Canadian actor born 5 August 1984 in New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada. He is sometimes mistakenly credited as Ryan MacDonald.-Filmography:* "The Ballad of Jack and Rose" * "Terry"...
won caps for Scotland while at Dewsbury Rams, and Halifax 2001…2005 1-cap + 1-cap (sub) - Joseph "Joe" MahoneyJoseph MahoneyJoseph "Joe" Mahoney is a Welsh former professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at representative level has played for Wales, and at club level for Oldham, and Dewsbury.-International honours:...
won caps for Wales while at Oldham, and Dewsbury 1948…1950 5-caps - Daniel "Danny" McKelvieDaniel McKelvieDaniel "Danny" McKelvie is a professional rugby league footballer who at representative level has played for Scotland, and at club level for Dewsbury Rams, playing at , i.e. number 8 or 10.-International honours:...
won a cap for Scotland while at Dewsbury Rams in 1997 against France (sub) - Thomas "Tommy" MilnerThomas Milner (rugby league)Thomas "Tommy" Milner was an English professional rugby league footballer of the 1910s who at representative level played for England, and at club level for Dewsbury.-International honours:...
won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1914 Wales - Gilbert "Gil" MorganGilbert Morgan (rugby league)Gilbert "Gil" Morgan was a Welsh professional rugby league footballer of the 1930s. Gilbert was born and brought up in Llanhilleth and moved to Yorkshire in the mid-1930s...
won a cap for Wales while at Dewsbury 1938 1-cap - Roy PollardRoy PollardRoy Pollard is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, England, and at club level for Dewsbury, playing at , i.e...
(Son of Wakefield TrinityWakefield Trinity WildcatsWakefield Trinity Wildcats are a professional rugby league club that plays in the European Super League and is based in Wakefield. They achieved promotion in 1999 and have remained in the League since. They are known to their fans as Wakey, Trinity, Wildcats, or historically The Dreadnoughts...
's Charles "Charlie" PollardCharles Pollard (rugby league)Charles "Charlie" A. Pollard was an English professional rugby league footballer of the 1910s, 20s and '30s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, and at club level for Wakefield Trinity, playing at , i.e...
) won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1949 France, 1950 Wales, and won caps for Great Britain while at Dewsbury 1950 New Zealand - Bryn PowellBryn PowellBryn Powell born 5 September 1979 is a rugby league player for the Dewsbury Rams in National League One.Bryn Powell's position of choice is in the .Powell is a Welsh international.He has previously played for Salford City Reds in the Super League....
won caps for Wales while at Salford, Featherstone Rovers, and Dewsbury 2004…2006 (5?)6-caps 4(3?)-tries 16(12?)-points
- William "Billy" RhodesWilliam Rhodes (rugby league)William "Billy" Rhodes is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1920s and coach of the 1920s, '30s, '40s and '50s, who at representative level has played for England, and at club level for Dewsbury, and at club level has coached for Castleford.-International honours:Billy...
won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1921 Wales, Other Nations - Harry RoyalHarry RoyalHarry Royal is a Welsh former professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s who at representative level has played for Wales, and at club level for Dewsbury.-International honours:Harry Royal won caps for Wales while at Dewsbury 1948 2-caps....
won caps for Wales while at Dewsbury 1948 2-caps - William StaddenWilliam StaddenWilliam James Wood "Buller" Stadden was a Welsh international rugby union half back who played club rugby for Cardiff and Dewsbury. Stadden won eight caps for Wales over a period of seven years and is most remembered for scoring the winning try in 1890 to give Wales their first victory over England...
1-cap for Wales (RU)Wales national rugby union teamThe Wales national rugby union team represent Wales in international rugby union tournaments. They compete annually in the Six Nations Championship with England, France, Ireland, Italy and Scotland. Wales have won the Six Nations and its predecessors 24 times outright, second only to England with...
while at Dewsbury 1890 - Mike 'Stevo' StephensonMike StephensonMichael "Mike" Stephenson, also commonly known as Stevo, is an English Rugby League World Cup winning Rugby League, and presenter/commentator on British satellite television channel Sky Sports who also represented Great Britain in the sport.Stevo, the nickname that he is commonly known as on TV...
(1972/73 Rugby Football League Championship Winner) won caps for Great Britain while at Dewsbury in 1971 against New Zealand, in 1972 against France, and in the 1972 Rugby League World Cup against Australia, France, New Zealand, and Australia (World Cup 1972 4-caps, 3-tries) - Nigel StephensonNigel StephensonNigel Stephenson is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1960s, '70s and '80s, and coach of the 1980s and '90s who at representative level has played for England, and Yorkshire, and at club level for , Dewsbury , Bradford Northern, Carlisle, Wakefield Trinity, and York,...
(1972/73 Rugby Football League Championship Winner) won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1975 Australia - Harry StreetHarry StreetHarry Street is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s, and coach of the 1950s, '60s, and '70s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, and England, and at club level for Dewsbury, Wigan, and Leeds, playing at , or /, i.e...
won caps for England while at Dewsbury 1950 Wales (2 matches), France, while at WiganWigan WarriorsWigan Warriors is an English rugby league club based in Wigan, Greater Manchester. The club's first team squad competes in the engage Super League and the team are the current Challenge Cup holders as of the 27th August 2011....
1951 France, 1952 Wales, 1953 France, and won caps for Great Britain while at Dewsbury 1950 Australia (3 matches), New Zealand
Other Notable Players
These players have either; won the Rugby Football League Championship, won the Challenge CupChallenge Cup
The Challenge Cup is a knockout cup competition for rugby league clubs organised by the Rugby Football League. Originally it was contested only by British teams but in recent years has been expanded to allow teams from France and Russia to take part....
, received a Testimonial match
Testimonial match
A testimonial match or testimonial game, often referred to simply as a testimonial, is a practice in some sports, notably football and especially in the United Kingdom, where a club puts on a match in honour of a player for service to the club....
, were international representatives before, or after, their time at Dewsbury, or are notable outside of rugby league.
- Allan AgarAllan AgarAllan Agar is an English former rugby league footballer and coach. Allan Agar is also the father of Richard Agar.A /, i.e. number 7, he played in the 1972–73 Northern Rugby Football League season's championship final for Dewsbury, helping them to victory....
(1972/73 Rugby Football League Championship Winner) - Richard AgarRichard AgarRichard Agar is a British rugby league football coach and former player. He is the head coach of Super League side Hull. Richard is the son of retired player coach, Allan Agar.Agar played for Featherstone, Dewsbury and Widnes....
- Greg Ashcroft ex-Pontypridd RFCPontypridd RFCPontypridd Rugby Football Club, known as Ponty, are a rugby union team from Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales, currently playing in the British and Irish Cup, Principality Premiership, and are the current SWALEC Cup champions....
(1972/73 Rugby Football League Championship Winner) - Kevin AshcroftKevin AshcroftKevin Ashcroft is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1960s and '70s, and coach of the 1970s, '80s, and '90s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, and at club level for Rochdale Hornets, Dewsbury, Leigh, Warrington, and Salford, playing at , or , i.e...
- Dennis BaileyDennis Bailey (rugby league)Dennis Bailey is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s who at club level has played for Dewsbury, playing at , i.e. number 2 or 5.-External links:********...
- Damian BallDamian BallDamian Ball is a former British Rugby League player and now a coach.Ball was the captain at Halifax from 2006. He usually played at loose forward, but could also operate at second row. He signed for Halifax after a six month sabbatical from the game...
- Maurice BamfordMaurice BamfordMaurice Bamford is a former rugby league player and coach. He also went on to write several books on rugby league.-Playing career:He attended Sacred Heart Roman Catholic School in Leeds...
- John Bates (Testimonial matchTestimonial matchA testimonial match or testimonial game, often referred to simply as a testimonial, is a practice in some sports, notably football and especially in the United Kingdom, where a club puts on a match in honour of a player for service to the club....
1976) (1972/73 Rugby Football League Championship Winner) http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/rugby-league/Pain-of-defeat-serves-Dewsbury.3782205.jp - Nathan BattyNathan BattyNathan Batty is a professional rugby league footballer who at club level has played for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Dewsbury Rams, and Featherstone Rovers, playing at , i.e. number 1.-External links:*********...
- Luke BlakeLuke BlakeLuke Blake is a professional rugby league footballer who at club level has played for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, and Dewsbury Rams.-External links:****...
- Danny BroughDanny BroughDanny Brough is a Dewsbury born English international rugby league footballer.Danny Brough plays for the Huddersfield Giants in Super League. He has also played for the Scotland...
- Archibald "Archie" BrownArchie Brown (rugby)Archibald "Archie" Brown was a Welsh rugby union and professional rugby league footballer of the 1910s and '20s who at representative level played rugby union for Wales, and at club level for Cross Keys RFC, Risca RFC, and Newport RFC, playing at Scrum-half, i.e...
- Austin BuchananAustin BuchananFor the minor U.S. television character, see Austin Buchanan Austin Buchanan is a rugby league player for the Dewsbury Rams....
- David "Dave" BusfieldDavid BusfieldDavid "Dave" 'Bussy' Busfield is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1970s and '80s, and coach of the 1980s who at club level has played for Featherstone Rovers, Halifax, Hull, Dewsbury, Huddersfield, and Wakefield Trinity, playing in the Backs, or Forwards, and at club level has...
- Chris ChapmanChris ChapmanChris Chapman is a former rugby league player. He played for the Leeds Rhinos in European Super League and also Sheffield Eagles and Dewsbury Rams. He played as a centre or on the wing.-External links:**...
- Leonard ConstanceLeonard ConstanceLeonard "Len" Constance was a Lieutenant in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and a Welsh rugby union and professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at representative level played rugby union for , and at club level for Bristol, Portsmouth, Royal Navy, and Combined Services,...
- Mark ConwayMark ConwayMark Conway is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1980s and '90s who at club level has played for Stanley Rangers ARLFC, Leeds, Wakefield Trinity, and Dewsbury, playing at /, i.e. number 7, and occasionally /, i.e. number 6...
- Bert CookBert CookBert Cook is a New Zealander former rugby union and professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at representative level has played rugby union for New Zealand Army, and at representative level has played rugby league for Other Nationalities, and at club level for Leeds,...
- Ged CorcoranGed CorcoranGed Corcoran born 28 March 1983 is an Irish rugby league player for Toulouse Olympique. He plays as a prop and can play in the second-row. He is the elder brother of Rochdale Hornets player Wayne Corcoran....
- Kenneth "Ken" Crabtree
- Kevin CrouthersKevin CrouthersKevin Crouthers is a former professional rugby league footballer who at club level has played for Bradford Bulls, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Sheffield Eagles, London Broncos, Warrington Wolves, Chorley Lynx, Dewsbury Rams, and Batley Bulldogs, playing at , or /, i.e...
- Sid DomicSid DomicSid Domic is an Australian rugby league footballer of Aboriginal descent who plays for Dewsbury Rams. Sid is both a dependable rugby league player and a promising artist. He is proud of his heritage and has produced some beautiful pieces of Aboriginal Artwork. Much of his own knowledge in this area...
- Alan Edwards (rugby)
- Kane EpatiKane EpatiKane Epati is a rugby league player. Orgininally a rugby union player in his native Samoa he now plays Rugby league for Dewsbury Rams in Championship 1 in England following stints at Doncaster Lakers, Hull Kingston Rovers where he was part of the Northern Rail Cup winning squad in 2005 and French...
- Mark FieldMark Field (rugby league)Mark Field is an English rugby league footballer who at club level has played for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at . He was released from Wakefield Trinity Wildcats in 2007-External links:**...
- Liam FinnLiam Finn (rugby league)Liam Finn is a professional rugby league footballer for the Featherstone Rovers of the Championship League. An Ireland international representative hooker, scrum-half or stand-off, he has previously played for Halifax and the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats of Super League, as well as Dewsbury RamsHe...
- Andy FisherAndy FisherAndy Fisher is a professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s, and coach of the 2000s who at club level has played for Hull, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at , or , i.e...
- Adrian FlynnAdrian FlynnAdrian Flynn is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who at club level has played for Wakefield Trinity, Castleford Tigers, Dewsbury Rams, and Featherstone Rovers, playing at , i.e. number 2 or 5.-External links:***...
- Roy Francis (rugby)
- Tere GlassieTere Glassie-Playing career:Glassie learned his trade with South Sydney, playing 3 first grade games with the Rabbitohs before further stints with Balmain Tigers, Newtown Jets and Wests Magpies. He then moved to the United Kingdom and played for Oldham, Leigh, Castleford Tigers and the Dewsbury Rams...
- Nathan GrahamNathan GrahamNathan Graham is a former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who at representative level has played for Scotland, and at club level for Bradford Bulls, Dewsbury Rams, Featherstone Rovers, and Batley Bulldogs.-International honours:...
- Chris Green
- Tyssul GriffithsTyssul GriffithsTyssul "Tuss" Griffiths is a Welsh former rugby union and professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at club level has played rugby union for Newport RFC, playing at Fullback, i.e. number 15, and at representative level has played rugby league for Wales, and at club level...
- Harry Hammond
- Vic HeyVic HeyVic Hey born Liverpool, New South Wales, was an Australian rugby league national and state representative five-eighth and later a successful first-grade and national coach. His Australian club playing career commenced with the Western Suburbs Magpies and concluded with the Parramatta Eels. In...
- Paul HicksPaul HicksPaul Hicks is a professional rugby league footballer who at club level has played for Wakefield Trinity, Batley Bulldogs, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at , i.e. number 8 or 10.-External links:****...
- Les HollidayLes HollidayLeslie "Les" W. Holliday is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, and at club level for Swinton, Halifax, Widnes, and Dewsbury, playing at , or /, i.e...
- John "Jack" Holt
- Sylvain HoulesSylvain HoulesSylvain Houles born in France is a rugby league player for Toulouse Olympique in the Co-operative Championship.Houles has previously played for Huddersfield, London Broncos and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats in the European Super League. He also played for Dewsbury RamsHe is a French international...
- David Morgan JenkinsDavid Morgan JenkinsDavid "Dai" Morgan Jenkins was a Welsh dual-code international rugby union and professional rugby league footballer of the 1920s and '30s. As an amateur union player he represented Kenfig Hill, Treorchy, and Glamorgan Police RFC, while as a professional rugby league footballer he played for...
- Warren JowittWarren JowittWarren Jowitt is a professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s, and coach of the 2000s who at club level has played for Stanley Rangers, Bradford Bulls, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Salford City Reds, Hull, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at , i.e...
- Brian Kelly circa-1940s/50s
- Neil Kelly
- Richard KellyRichard Kelly (rugby league)Richard Kelly is a former professional Rugby League playerRichard Kelly played for Wakefield Trinity from 1982-1992 & Dewsbury Rams in 1993. & 1994.Richard played stand off No 6, centre No 4 and full back No 1...
- Joe Kirkham/Joseph Kirkham (to Featherstone RoversFeatherstone RoversFeatherstone Rovers are a semi-professional rugby league club, based in Featherstone, West Yorkshire, England. They currently play in the Championship. The Rovers are one of the last vestiges of "small town teams" that were once common in rugby league during the early twentieth century...
in 1921) - Chris LangleyChris LangleyChris Langley is an English rugby league player for the Dewsbury Rams in National League One. He plays as a centre. He has previously played for the Huddersfield Giants in the European Super League and also had spells with Bradford, Featherstone Rovers, York and Doncaster.-External links:**...
- Dean LawfordDean LawfordDean Lawford is a rugby league half back for Dewsbury Rams. He has played for Sheffield Eagles, Leeds Rhinos, Bramley Buffaloes, Huddersfield Giants, Halifax, Widnes Vikings, Dewsbury Celtic, and Batley Bulldogs....
- Davide LongoDavide LongoDavide Longo is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who at club level has played for Bradford Bulls, Swinton Lions, Keighley Cougars, Batley Bulldogs, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at /, i.e. number 6.-External links:******...
- Ryan McDonaldRyan McDonald (rugby league)Ryan McDonald born in Cumbria, England is a rugby league player for Whitehaven in National League One. He plays as a prop. He has previously played for the Widnes Vikings in the European Super League and has had spells at Leeds, Dewsbury, Halifax and the York City Knights.-External links:**...
- Dominic MaloneyDominic MaloneyDominic Maloney is an English rugby league player who currently plays for Halifax of the Co-operative Championship. He previously his club football for Hull F.C. of the Super League competition. His position of choice is at prop forward....
- Tony MarchantTony Marchant (rugby league)Tony Marchant is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1980s and '90s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, and Yorkshire, and at club level for Castleford, and Dewsbury, playing at , or , i.e...
- David MycoeDavid MycoeDavid Mycoe is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who at club level has played for Sheffield Eagles, Wakefield Trinity, Dewsbury Rams, Gateshead Thunder, and Hunslet Hawks, playing at , i.e. number 6.-External links:...
- Evan ReesEvan ReesEvan B. Rees was a Welsh rugby union and professional rugby league footballer of the 1910s who at representative level played rugby union for Wales, and at club level for Swansea RFC, playing at Centre, i.e...
- Donald "Don" Richardson (Testimonial matchTestimonial matchA testimonial match or testimonial game, often referred to simply as a testimonial, is a practice in some sports, notably football and especially in the United Kingdom, where a club puts on a match in honour of a player for service to the club....
1986) - Gus RismanGus RismanAugustus "Gus" John F. Risman was a Welsh rugby league footballer of the 1920s through to the 1950s.A devastating three-quarter who also played at , and /, Risman was born in Cardiff, brought up in Barry where he went to Barry County School, and played rugby union in South Wales as a schoolboy...
- Darren RogersDarren Rogers (rugby league)Darren Rogers is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who at representative level has played for England, and at club level for Salford City Reds, Castleford Tigers, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at , i.e. number 2 or 5....
- E. Rogers circa-1920
- Ronald "Ron" RylanceRonald RylanceRonald "Ron" Rylance is a former professional Rugby League World Cup winning footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at representative level has played for England, and Yorkshire, and at club level for Wakefield Trinity, Dewsbury, and Huddersfield, playing at , or , i.e...
- Derrick SchofieldDerrick SchofieldDerrick Schofield was an English professional rugby league footballer of the 1940s and '50s who at representative level played for Great Britain, England, and Lancashire, and at club level for Rochdale Hornets , Halifax, Castleford and Dewsbury, playing at , or , i.e...
- Charlie Seeling, Jr Captain circa-1930s son of Charlie SeelingCharlie SeelingCharles Edward "Bronco" Seeling was a New Zealand international rugby football player of the early 20th century. He played in the forwards for the original All Blacks, appearing in 11 tests.Seeling then signed with English rugby league club, Wigan in 1910...
- Andy SpeakAndy SpeakAndy Speak is a professional rugby league footballer who at club level has played for Stanley Rangers, Leeds Rhinos, Sheffield Eagles, Halifax, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Castleford Tigers, Dewsbury Rams, Doncaster, and Batley Bulldogs, playing at , i.e. number 9.-External links:***...
- Tim Spears
- Rob SpicerRob SpicerRob Spicer is a professional rugby league footballer who at club level has played for Stanley Rangers, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, York City Knights, and Dewsbury Rams, playing at , or /, i.e. number 2 or 5, 3 or 4, 11 or 12, or 13.-External links:*****...
- Christopher "Chris" Squires (Testimonial matchTestimonial matchA testimonial match or testimonial game, often referred to simply as a testimonial, is a practice in some sports, notably football and especially in the United Kingdom, where a club puts on a match in honour of a player for service to the club....
1991) - William StaddenWilliam StaddenWilliam James Wood "Buller" Stadden was a Welsh international rugby union half back who played club rugby for Cardiff and Dewsbury. Stadden won eight caps for Wales over a period of seven years and is most remembered for scoring the winning try in 1890 to give Wales their first victory over England...
- William StocksWilliam StocksJ. William "Willie" Stocks is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1920s and '30s who at representative level has played for England, and Yorkshire, and at club level for Huddersfield, and Dewsbury, playing at , i.e...
- Angus StuartAngus StuartAngus John Stuart also known as Angus Stewart was a Scottish-born rugby union forward who played club rugby for Cardiff and Dewsbury. Although never capped at international level in his own country, in 1888 Stuart was chosen to tour New Zealand and Australia as part of the first British Isles team...
- Mick SullivanMick SullivanMichael "Mick" Sullivan is an English former professional Rugby League World Cup winning footballer of the 1950s and 60s. He holds the record for the most appearances for the Great Britain Lions with 46.Sullivan signed with Huddersfield in 1952 as an 18 year-old right winger...
circa-1966 - Brian Taylor http://www.totalrl.com/features/content.php?feat_id=269&featcat_id=32 circa-1965
- Lance ToddLance ToddLancelot Beaumont "Lance" Todd was a New Zealand-born rugby league footballer and manager of the early 20th century. As a player he represented his country in 1907 and 1908 and played in England for the Wigan and Dewsbury clubs...
circa-1914 - Aaron TrinderAaron TrinderAaron Trinder is a rugby league player who currently plays for the Norths Devils in the Queensland Cup. He plays as a prop.-Playing career:In 2001 Trinder played for the Newtown Jets in the NSWRL First Division....
- Frank WateneFrank WateneFrank Watene is a professional rugby league footballer who at has played for the Auckland Warriors, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Castleford Tigers, Dewsbury Rams, and Halifax RLFC at club level, playing at Prop forward or Second-row forward.-Early years:...
- John "Johnny" Wolford
Team Records
- Biggest victory: 90-5 vs BlackpoolBlackpoolBlackpool is a borough, seaside town, and unitary authority area of Lancashire, in North West England. It is situated along England's west coast by the Irish Sea, between the Ribble and Wyre estuaries, northwest of Preston, north of Liverpool, and northwest of Manchester...
on 4 April 1993 - Biggest defeat: 74-16 vs St. Helens on 18 July 1999
- Highest attendance:
- Crown Flatt: 26,584 vs HalifaxHalifax RLFCHalifax RLFC is one of the most historic rugby league clubs in the game, formed over a century ago, in 1873 in the Yorkshire town of Halifax. Known as 'Fax', the official club colours are blue and white hoops, blue shorts and blue socks . They share The Shay stadium with football club FC Halifax Town...
in the Yorkshire Cup on 30 October 1920 - The Tetley's Stadium: 3,995 vs BatleyBatley BulldogsBatley Bulldogs are an English professional rugby league club from Batley, West Yorkshire. They currently play in the Co-operative Championship. Batley is one of the original twenty-two rugby football clubs that formed the Northern Rugby Football Union in 1895...
on 26 December 1994
- Crown Flatt: 26,584 vs Halifax
Individual Records
- Season
- Goals: 170 by Barry EatonBarry EatonBarry Eaton is a former Welsh international rugby league player who is currently assistant coach at Crusaders. He was a .Barry Eaton played in all but three of Widnes Vikings' 28 matches in their first season in Super League...
in 2000 - Tries: 40 by Dai ThomasDai Thomas (rugby league)David "Dai" Thomas was a Welsh professional rugby league footballer of the 1900s who at representative level played for Other Nationalities, and at club level for Oldham, playing at , i.e...
in 1906/07 - Points: 398 by Barry EatonBarry EatonBarry Eaton is a former Welsh international rugby league player who is currently assistant coach at Crusaders. He was a .Barry Eaton played in all but three of Widnes Vikings' 28 matches in their first season in Super League...
in 2000
- Goals: 170 by Barry Eaton
- Match
- Goals: 13
- Greg Pearce vs Blackpool GladiatorsBlackpool PanthersBlackpool & The Fylde Panthers RLFC was an English professional rugby league club based in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire. They played at Woodlands Memorial Ground owned by Fylde rugby union club...
on 4 April 1993. - Francis MaloneyFrancis Maloney (rugby league)Francis Maloney is an English rugby league player for the Batley Bulldogs in National League One. He plays as a stand-off and can operate as a centre...
vs Hunslet HawksHunslet HawksHunslet Hawks is a professional rugby league club based in Hunslet, West Yorkshire, England. The club, sometimes known as 'the Parksiders' after their former stadium, are currently champions of Championship One.-History:-Early years:...
on 25 March 2007
- Greg Pearce vs Blackpool Gladiators
- Goals: 13
-
- Tries: 8 by Dai ThomasDai Thomas (rugby league)David "Dai" Thomas was a Welsh professional rugby league footballer of the 1900s who at representative level played for Other Nationalities, and at club level for Oldham, playing at , i.e...
vs Liverpool on 13 April 1907 - Points: 32 by Les HollidayLes HollidayLeslie "Les" W. Holliday is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s who at representative level has played for Great Britain, and at club level for Swinton, Halifax, Widnes, and Dewsbury, playing at , or /, i.e...
v BarrowBarrow RaidersBarrow Raiders are an English professional rugby league team from Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, who are coached by Dave Clark. Formed in 1875 as Barrow Football Club, the club is the oldest of the current professional sports teams in Cumbria....
on 11 September 1994
- Tries: 8 by Dai Thomas
- Career
- Goals: 863 by Nigel StephensonNigel StephensonNigel Stephenson is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1960s, '70s and '80s, and coach of the 1980s and '90s who at representative level has played for England, and Yorkshire, and at club level for , Dewsbury , Bradford Northern, Carlisle, Wakefield Trinity, and York,...
(1967–78 and 1984–86) - Tries: 144 by Joe Lyman (1913 to 1931)
- Goals: 863 by Nigel Stephenson
Sources
- Rams:history and facts
- http://64.233.183.104/search?q=cache:cIsu22geB9IJ:www.nowthen.org/documents/18_01.rtf+Rochdale+Hornets+1871+merger+rugby&hl=en&ct=clnk&cd=8&gl=uk