As we step into a new year, it feels right to pause and reflect on what was truly a landmark chapter in the proud history of Finchley Rugby Football Club. 2025 – our Centenary year – was not just about marking 100 years since our founding but about reaffirming who we are today and setting a clear direction for the future.

None of what we achieved would have been possible without the energy, commitment and goodwill of our members, volunteers, players, parents, coaches and supporters. This short review is a reflection on what we achieved together in 2025.

Centenary Highlights – A Year to Remember
Our Centenary celebrations captured everything that makes Finchley RFC special: heritage, friendship and a deep sense of community.

The successful Launch of our One club Vision and the FRFC100 Community Sport Fund launched - marked a defining moment for the club—uniting players, volunteers, partners and the wider community behind a shared ambition to strengthen participation, improve facilities and secure a sustainable future for the next generation.

The Summer Ball was a standout moment of the year — an unforgettable evening that brought together generations of Finchley members to celebrate our history in style.

A special centenary match at the home of rugby, Twickenham, against the Houses of Commons & Lords RFC delivered a truly unique sporting occasion, blending tradition, competition and fun in a way that felt unmistakably Finchley.

Lunch with Legends offered members the chance to hear stories, share laughter and reconnect with those who have shaped the club over decades — a fitting and heartfelt tribute to our past.

Each of these moments reinforced a simple truth: Finchley RFC has always been, and remains, a people-first club.

On the Pitch – Progress Built on Purpose
2025 was also a year of real achievement on the field.

Finchley`s Kelsey Clifford named in the England Roses World Cup squad - and went on to become a World Cup Winner!

The Phoenix Women’s 1st XV was successfully reformed and entered the league structure — a major milestone for women’s rugby at Finchley.

Lily Pereira Dos Santos made her England U18 debut, an outstanding achievement and a moment of huge pride for the club.

Six girls were selected for the Player Development Group of which four were selected for U18 England Development training camps, underlining the strength of our player pathway.

Our mini and youth sections continued to grow, with teams competing at every age group, providing a clear and sustainable route from youth rugby through to the senior game.

These successes reflect the dedication of our coaches, volunteers and safeguarding teams, and the supportive environment we work hard to create — one where players of all ages can thrive.

Club wide Events & Community Impact
Away from the pitch, 2025 showed Finchley RFC at its very best as a community club.

Saracens Takeover Day at StoneX Stadium was a major highlight, with our minis and youth players proudly representing Finchley RFC on a Premiership matchday — from flag-bearing to pre-match activities.

Finchley RFC was also proudly represented at England v France at Twickenham, with club volunteers supporting one of the biggest fixtures in the rugby calendar — a powerful reminder of our reputation within the wider game.

Back at Summers Lane, our Annual Fireworks Display once again brought the community together for an unforgettable evening of celebration, food, music and fireworks.

These moments underline something we know well: Finchley RFC is not just a rugby club — it is a true community hub.

Looking Ahead – Turning Momentum into Legacy
As we move into 2026, the energy of our Centenary year gives us real confidence for what comes next. Celebration has gone hand in hand with progress, and we now look ahead to delivering the next phase of our Centenary ambitions.

Over the coming months, we will continue to push forward our five key Centenary projects, designed to support long-term growth and sustainability. More on these and how you can continue to support the projects to follow.

Finally, a sincere thank you to every volunteer, coach, official, sponsor, parent and supporter who gave their time and energy during this exceptional year. Whether you coach, referee, fundraise, organise events or cheer from the sidelines — you are Finchley RFC.