Club History

Drew Rugby Football Club is formed as a men’s rugby team at Drew University in Madison, NJ — planting the roots of what would grow into one of the northeast’s most respected programs.

John Hinchcliff, a graduate student from New Zealand, mentors the team and teaches proper rugby fundamentals, transforming a group of enthusiastic former football players into skilled ruggers.

DRFC defeats Army at West Point — a landmark early victory that signals the program’s rising competitive standard.

DRFC defeats Princeton in the spring season to capture the Schaeffer Cup for the first time, beating Princeton and Rutgers en route. A defining moment in program history.

DRFC becomes an officially recognized student club at Drew University and joins full USA Rugby Union intercollegiate competition, traveling to matches and tournaments across the Atlantic Seaboard.

DRFC reaches its competitive peak, defeating D-I opponents and earning national recognition despite competing at the D-III level. The 1978–1979 team shuts out every college opponent they face. The club becomes a true powerhouse of northeast collegiate rugby.

The club ceases operations, but the alumni network remains active and proud. The Hall of Fame was established in 2022 to formally honor those who built the program. Efforts are now underway to bring rugby back to Drew University.