Rugby in Tameside: Ultimate Guide to Local Clubs, Training & Youth Development
Discover Tameside’s vibrant rugby scene, stretching from Ashton-under-Lyne to Hyde, where historic clubs and modern facilities offer rugby opportunities for all ages. The borough’s rich sporting heritage, set against the backdrop of the Pennines, continues to nurture both rugby league and union talent.
Premier Rugby Clubs in Tameside
Aldwinians RUFC
Based at Audenshaw Park, Aldwinians stands as Tameside’s premier rugby union club. Their facilities include:
- Two full-size pitches with floodlighting
- Modern clubhouse and gymnasium
- Professional coaching setup
- Teams from U6 to senior level
Droylsden Rugby League Club
Located at Droylsden Academy, offering:
- Community rugby league programs
- Youth development pathway
- All-weather training facilities
Youth Rugby Development
Mini Rugby Programs
Comprehensive youth rugby across Tameside includes:
- Tots Rugby (Ages 2-4) at Aldwinians
- Mini Rugby (Ages 5-11) at multiple locations
- Junior Development Centers in Ashton and Hyde
- School holiday rugby camps
School Partnerships
Active rugby programs at:
- Hyde Community College
- Audenshaw School
- Droylsden Academy
- Copley Academy
Women’s and Girls’ Rugby
Growing female participation includes:
- Aldwinians Women’s Team
- Girls’ development squads (U13, U15, U18)
- Beginners’ touch rugby at Richmond Park
- Ladies fitness rugby sessions
Rugby Facilities Across Tameside
Main Training Grounds
- Audenshaw Park – Primary rugby complex
- Richmond Park – Community pitches
- Lord Sheldon Playing Fields
- Hyde United FC Complex (shared facility)
Indoor Training Venues
- Active Tameside Medlock Centre
- Active Ken Ward
- Tameside Wellness Centre
Rugby Equipment and Shops
Local rugby equipment retailers:
- Sports Direct – Ashton Arcades
- JD Sports – Crown Point North
- Club shops at major grounds
Rugby in Key Tameside Districts
Ashton-under-Lyne
Central hub for rugby development with multiple facilities and training programs.
Hyde
Growing rugby community utilizing Hyde United’s facilities and local schools.
Denton
Regular training sessions at Denton Community College.
Dukinfield
Community rugby initiatives at Astley Sports Village.
Getting Started with Rugby in Tameside
Multiple entry points for new players across the borough include:
- Beginner sessions for all ages
- Touch rugby introductions
- Walking rugby for over 50s
- Private coaching options
Special Programs
Unique rugby opportunities include:
- Corporate team building
- School holiday camps
- Rugby fitness classes
- Birthday party packages
Contact individual clubs for current training schedules and membership information. Most Tameside clubs offer free taster sessions and beginner-friendly introduction packages. The borough’s strong community focus ensures a welcoming environment for players of all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced athletes.