Barnard Castle Rugby Club targets further growth after historic year

These are exciting times for rugby in Barnard Castle and, with the season starting this weekend, Nick Raper reveals how the club aims to build on recent achievements and expand its reach within the community.

Barnard Castle RUFC is preparing for an exciting 2026/27 campaign after a remarkable season of success both on and off the field.

The club enters the new season in a strong position following one of the most successful years in its recent history.

The first XV secured the Counties 2 North East title after completing an unbeaten campaign and also reached the semi-finals of the County Cup.

What’s more, the second XV finished an impressive fourth in their league, highlighting the growing strength and depth of senior rugby at the club.

However, Barney officials believe the real story lies in what comes next.

A major focus for the coming season will be continuing to strengthen the pathways that allow players of all ages and abilities to become involved in rugby.

Participation across the junior section continues to rise, with dedicated volunteer coaches helping to develop the next generation of players and ensuring young people enjoy the game in a safe, inclusive and supportive environment.

Barnard Castle RUFC is also investing heavily in community rugby initiatives.

Following the successful launch of both the walking rugby and Little Ruckers programmes, the club plans to expand these sections during the coming season.

The club is also launching an ambitious schools’ project this September, working with local schools to provide free tag rugby coaching sessions.

The initiative aims to improve young people’s health, wellbeing, fitness, confidence and social development while introducing more children to the values and enjoyment of rugby.

Another priority for the season ahead is the long-term development of women’s and girls’ rugby.

While the club does not currently field female teams, work is continuing behind the scenes to create sustainable pathways through partnerships with schools and community organisations.

Looking ahead, Barnard Castle RUFC’s ambitions for 2026/27 include maintaining strong performances across both senior teams, increasing junior participation, expanding its community programmes and making meaningful progress towards re-establishing women’s and girls’ rugby.

Club representatives say the success of recent years has been built on the dedication of players, coaches, volunteers and supporters, whose commitment has helped create a welcoming and ambitious environment.

With strong foundations now in place, the club believes it is well positioned to continue growing both competitively and as an important part of the local community.

As preparations continue for the new season, there is a clear sense of optimism around the club, with Barnard Castle RUFC determined to build on recent achievements and ensure rugby remains accessible to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities across the area.

With impressive performances in warm-up games and 48 players taking the field to represent the first and second teams last Saturday, competition for places in the coming season is expected to be fierce.

The season proper kicks off on Saturday at 3pm with both teams at home.

The Firsts host neighbours Darlington in Counties 1 North East and the Seconds take on Horden & Peterlee in the Candy League South.

With George O’Brien’s ‘Tuk In’ supplying hot beverages and food there will be plenty there to keep spectators happy so get yourselves down to cheer them on.