TO HEAR A RECORDING OF THIS LECTURE 

Newcastle University RFC is, and always has been, one of the leading student clubs in the country.  There have been many fine achievements during a rich history which can be traced back to the end of the 19^th Century when, as part of Durham University, we were College of Science RFC. Student magazines and local newspapers have recorded many of the Club’s adventures. While they are of interest in themselves, they also illustrate the importance of the game in forming links between the University and the community, in developing well-rounded individuals and even in influencing political perspectives.

Professor Stewart Evans is a professional marine biologist but has been closely associated with the Rugby Club, serving in virtually every possible capacity, since the mid-1970s.  He is currently President of the Club.   A recent major initiative has been to re-juvenate the Club’s Vice-Presidents Association so that former players and supporters can renew acquaintances with one another and provide support for the Club.  Part of this has been the publication of a book ‘Pride in the Lion.  The History of Newcastle University Rugby Football Club’.