The club was formed in 1983 in the back of a carpet van on the way back from Brentwood Rugby Club by Rodney Baxter. Geoff Reid, landlord of The Blacksmith's Arms at Mistley Heath was appointed President because of his money raising skills and the snug of the Blacksmiths Arms became HQ to Mistley RUFC. Rodney Baxter and Natalie Tweedie [Club Secretary] approached Suffolk RFU to register the Club with just one player! Roger Wright was recruited from Colchester RUFC to coach the backs while Rodney coached the forwards.
The first matches were played at Manningtree School, but space for a pitch was soon found in the field adjacent to our current facilities. A "portacabin' served as changing rooms, and our post-match socialising took place at the old Thorn Hotel.
The club has grown significantly in size and stature since those humble beginnings – it now boasts a large and successful Youth Section, a growing Women’s Section and, thanks to a huge effort by members and volunteers, a recently opened purpose built club house. Only fitting for a club that in 2019 saw a large crowd witness one of the finest matches to grace Furze Hills, as Mistley 1st XV won Suffolk Plate with a last gasp penalty that set off scenes of jubilation from players and spectators alike.
The club has come a long way in the last 40 years but, despite the increase in size, in spirit it remains a village rugby club with the community at its heart. Some claim it is the “biggest village rugby club in England”… we just think it’s the best! And whether on the field or socialising off it, you will always see plenty of Passion, Spirit and Strength.
