A Brief History of United Rugby

words by Doc Sidey

Rugby Football in the Hawarden Waikari region had its origins in 1883, when a team known as the Hawarden Football Club played in the North Canterbury competition. After WW1, some local enthusiasts headed by the local storekeeper, Harry Saundercock set out to lead the revival of the game and the new club was now known as the Waikari-Hawarden United Football Club. Officially formed in 1921, the Club stayed in the North Canterbury competition until 1924 when it left to join the Hurunui Sub Union. The final year in competition had been very successful with both the senior team and the junior team winning their grades.

In 1924 the United Club built its first pavilion at Waikari. A much improved pavilion was constructed in 1952 at the Waikari Domain and lasted as a sports pavilion for tennis and cricket until its recent demolition. Playing against the Culverden, Waiau, Cheviot and Kaikoura clubs ensured an even and well contested competition throughout the seasons and the appearance of a Hanmer team added to the experience when their numbers allowed.

The Hurunui Sub Union teams have been disadvantaged by not having the total player numbers enjoyed by the Ellesmere and North Canterbury Clubs, who had twice the numbers to pick from. This was highlighted by the fact that their towns were increasing in population, whereas our numbers were static.

The Culverden and Glenmark clubs have both been able to highlight the All Blacks they have produced, many of whom have been home grown. In contrast, United can boast only one. However, the success of any club is to provide teams to play for that are competitive and well-coached and managed.

Throughout its proud history, the combined efforts of many enthusiasts for the game have ensured that this has occurred. Concerns were expressed by many with regard to the Waikari Domain playing surface in the late 1970’s. After much discussion and to the disappointment of Waikari residents, a majority decision was made to shift to the Hawarden Memorial Park. For those Waikari residents who resolved never to travel up to Hawarden to watch United teams play, we can happily say that this protest lasted a whole fortnight!

A major undertaking was the building of the Rugby/Squash pavilion and clubrooms at Hawarden. The enormous fundraising efforts of hay carting, hay selling, tree felling, firewood sales, crutching and shearing resulted in a total $200,000 being raised, and that in today’s terms was no mean feat. It must be noted that the teamwork and comraderie built up by club players also showed on the rugby field. It was a very memorable era.

Even though it was 2014 when a United Club last fielded a team (U7’s), the club still has an active committee and wonderful facilities. We look forward every season to putting on a Club Day for the Hurunui Club. Last year due to other fields suffering the effects of bad weather the United grounds were used on 3 separate occasions.

The Centennial of the Club, which has been delayed for two years due to Covid outbreaks, will be celebrated with a Centennial Dinner on Friday 19th May. The next day all club teams of all ages will play their games at Hawarden.