Rugby

Rugby in the Royal Navy

The Royal Navy Rugby Union (RNRU) was formed in 1906. For many, Royal Navy Rugby became known for just one game each May at Twickenham: the Army v Navy match. Today, Royal Navy rugby is much more than that. Although the 1st XV, quite rightly, is the focus of everyone's attention during the Inter Service Championship, the RNRU exists to facilitate rugby at all levels, from the 1st XV to teams on the smallest ship.

How we play:

Apart from the various Royal Navy representative teams (1st XV, A, U21, Women and Veterans) the RNRU organises a number of competitions during the season for both fifteen- and seven-a-side games. Three knockout cups (mini, midi and maxi) are run exclusively for the ships of the Fleet, and the middle of December always sees the final of the RNRU Knockout Cup. This competition is open to all establishments, ships and Royal Marines Units, and provides a fitting finale to the first half of the season.

The Blakeney Cup:

Another important competition in the Royal Navy Rugby season is the Blakeney Cup. Here the five Commands of the Fleet Air Arm, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Royal Marines and Scotland compete over a week for the right to be called RNRU Command Champions and the opportunity to represent the RNRU at an overseas tournament. The Command teams provide a great opportunity for many more rugby players to enjoy the challenges offered by representative rugby.

Our vested interest in the game:

Because the RNRU is a constituent body of the Rugby Football Union, it has an important role in the evolution of the game in England. As well as the playing of rugby, the RNRU also has responsibilities in developing the game through coaching seminars and courses, administrating the game and officiating through the provision of referees and touch judges.

Current Jobs

Royal Marines Officer

We are the UK’s elite amphibious force. We use Royal Navy ships as a base and we launch operations from the sea, land or air. What makes us unique is our ability to operate in any location or environment. We’re...

More info

Marine Engineering Officer

At sea, you'll lead a team of skilled technicians, with responsibility for the ships, hull, engines, power and water, air and hydraulics systems. On, shore, you could join an integrated project team, reviewing and improving the performance of our ships,...

More info

Air Engineering Technician

As a vital part of our air operations team, you’ll take charge of scheduled maintenance and pre- and post-flight servicing and inspections for the Fleet Air Arm’s aircraft. You could serve on board a frigate, destroyer, helicopter carrier, at a...

More info