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Our Story

A Proud Dual Sport Legacy in the Heart of Helensburgh

Welcome to Helensburgh Cricket and Rugby Football Club (HCRFC) a place where sport, community, and tradition come together in a vibrant, inclusive environment.

Nestled at Ardencaple beneath the scenic Argyll hills, our club has been a part of Helensburgh life for over 150 years. With cricket established in 1872 and rugby in 1963, we are proud to offer a home for players, families, supporters, and volunteers of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

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Two Sports, One Club, One Community

Although different in play, cricket and rugby at Helensburgh are united by shared values: teamwork, respect, commitment, and a love for the game.

 

We are more than a sports club; we are a community of friends, teammates, mentors, and supporters who believe in the power of sport to build confidence, character, and lifelong connections.

 

Whether you’re padding up for a summer afternoon on the cricket pitch or lacing your boots for a winter fixture in the mud, there’s always something happening at Ardencaple.

Cricket at Helensburgh

A Legacy That’s Still Growing

 

Helensburgh Cricket Club was founded in 1872, as cricket took root in the growing seaside town. For over a century and a half, the club has played a vital role in the local sporting community, with generations of players taking to the crease at Ardencaple, a ground that remains our cherished home.

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Today, the cricket section is a proud part of the wider Helensburgh Cricket and Rugby Football Club, offering opportunities for all ages and abilities:

  • Junior Cricket
    A welcoming introduction to the game, our Junior team focuses on developing skills, teamwork, and love for the sport in a supportive and fun environment.

  • Senior Cricket – 1st XI and 2nd XI
    Competing in the Western District Cricket Union (WDCU), our senior squads cater to experienced players and those returning to the game alike. Matches are competitive, but camaraderie is at the core of everything we do.

Cricket at Helensburgh is about more than results, it’s about friendships formed over long afternoons in the field, learning through play, and being part of a sporting tradition that stretches back over 150 years.

 

Whether you’re new to the game, a seasoned cricketer, or simply enjoy the social side, there’s a place for you here.

Rugby at Helensburgh

Tradition. Pathway. Passion.

 

Since its founding in 1963, Helensburgh Rugby has been a cornerstone of sport in the town. Built by generations of players, volunteers, parents and supporters, the rugby section has grown to become a dynamic, inclusive community grounded in values of respect, teamwork, and spirit.

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Our rugby programme supports development at every age and stage:

 

  • Bear Cubs (Under 4s)
    A gentle, fun-filled introduction to sport through movement and play for our youngest rugby stars.

  • Micros and Minis (P1–P7)
    These early years are focused on developing fundamental skills in a safe, exciting, and supportive environment where confidence and friendships grow.

  • Youth Rugby (U13s–U18s)
    A structured and competitive pathway for developing game understanding, strength, and character. Many of our current senior players started right here.

  • Senior Rugby (Men’s 1XV and 2XV)
    Our senior teams compete in regional leagues and are open to all whether you’re aiming for performance or just looking for a run-out and some post-match camaraderie. New and returning players are always welcome.

Helensburgh Rugby is proud to be a place where players of all backgrounds and abilities can thrive. Whether you’re learning the basics, chasing your first try, or returning after years away, there’s a place for you in our rugby family.

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More Than a Club

At Helensburgh Cricket and Rugby Football Club, we believe sport should be open to all. We are a proudly inclusive club that values diversity and encourages participation at every level. Whether you’re a player, coach, volunteer, supporter, or social member, you’ll find a warm welcome here.

  • Community at Our Core: We regularly host events, fundraisers, and open days that bring people together, strengthen local ties, and celebrate what makes our club special.

  • A Clubhouse Full of Life: Our clubhouse at Ardencaple is the heart of the club a place to connect after matches, share stories, and build friendships that last.

  • Volunteers & Supporters: From the sidelines to the kitchen, from coaching to committee roles, our club is powered by the passion and dedication of volunteers who make everything possible.

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Be Part of Our Story

With over 150 years of sporting heritage behind us and a dynamic future ahead, Helensburgh Cricket and Rugby Football Club continues to grow, evolve, and welcome new members.

 

Whether you’re picking up a bat, pulling on a jersey, helping out behind the scenes, or simply enjoying a drink on the sidelines, we invite you to join us and be part of something special.

 

This is your club. This is your community. This is Helensburgh. Become a Member now!

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