About Us

A charity dedicated to the sport

The Rugby Fives Association is the national governing body for Rugby Fives, a registered charity (1136872) and limited company (04837244). Interested in growing the officiating community? Discover how to organize your own referee training course in our latest guide: How to host a Rugby Fives referee training course. Led by President David Bawtree and General Secretary Phil Atkinson, the RFA works to promote playing and coaching at schools, universities and throughout the community.

Discover how targeted flexibility can enhance your performance on the court. Stretching routines that support Rugby Fives players The Rugby Fives Association serves as the heart of the sport in the United Kingdom, bringing together players, coaches, schools, and clubs under one unified governing body. As a registered charity, the organisation is dedicated to ensuring that Rugby Fives remains accessible, vibrant, and well-supported for generations to come. From its headquarters, the RFA coordinates a busy calendar of competitive events, championships, and tournaments that span the length and breadth of the country. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or someone discovering the game for the first time, the association provides a welcoming pathway into the sport, connecting newcomers with established playing communities and helping to grow participation at every level.

The competitive calendar is one of the most exciting aspects of the RFA's work, with events running throughout the year across all regions of the country. National championships, regional tournaments, and school competitions are organised with care, ensuring that players of all ages and abilities have opportunities to test themselves against worthy opposition. The association maintains rankings and statistics that track the progress of competitors, adding a layer of depth and narrative to the sporting year. From the early months of the season through to its climax, the fixture list offers something for everyone, with events hosted in venues from the south coast to the eastern counties and beyond.

Schools have always been central to the story of Rugby Fives, and the association places a strong emphasis on supporting the next generation of players. Working closely with educational institutions across the country, the RFA helps to develop coaching programmes, introduce the sport to new pupils, and nurture emerging talent. The school competitions and inter-school fixtures are a highlight of the calendar, often producing some of the most passionate and closely contested matches of the season. By investing in junior participation and fostering a love of the game in young people, the association ensures that the future of Rugby Fives remains in safe hands.

Beyond the competitive arena, the RFA is committed to promoting the wider benefits of the sport, from physical fitness and mental wellbeing to teamwork and personal discipline. The association works with coaches and volunteers to deliver sessions that are inclusive, engaging, and rewarding for participants of all backgrounds. Community outreach and collaboration with local partners help to bring the game to people who might not otherwise encounter it, widening the sport's appeal and strengthening its grassroots foundation. This broader mission reflects the charitable nature of the organisation and its genuine desire to make a positive difference through sport.

The association is guided by a dedicated team of directors, officers, and volunteers who give their time generously to support the sport they love. From the president and general secretary to the many committee members who organise events and manage day-to-day operations, the governance of the RFA is built on a foundation of passion and expertise. Clear policies and a strong sense of accountability ensure that the organisation operates transparently and effectively. This commitment to good governance underpins everything the association does, from its charitable activities to its management of national competitions and its engagement with the wider sporting community.

Membership of the Rugby Fives Association offers individuals and organisations a range of benefits, from access to competitions and rankings to regular updates on news, fixtures, and results. The association communicates with its community through its website, social media channels, and publications, keeping members informed and connected throughout the season. Whether you are a player, a coach, a parent, or simply a fan of the sport, becoming part of the RFA community is a rewarding experience. The association welcomes engagement from all quarters and is always keen to hear from those who wish to contribute to the ongoing development of Rugby Fives.

The history of Rugby Fives is rich with memorable moments, legendary players, and fiercely contested matches, and the association works to preserve and celebrate this heritage. Archives, galleries, and historical records are maintained so that the achievements of past champions and the evolution of the game are never forgotten. At the same time, the sport continues to evolve, with new talent emerging each season and records being rewritten. This blend of tradition and progress gives Rugby Fives its unique character, and the RFA is proud to act as the custodian of the game's legacy while looking forward to its future.

Spectators and supporters play an important role in the life of the sport, and the association encourages fans to attend events, follow the action online, and share in the excitement of championship day. The atmosphere at major tournaments is electric, with close matches, dramatic rallies, and outstanding individual performances providing entertainment for all who watch. The association works to make events accessible and enjoyable for spectators, with clear information about schedules, venues, and how to follow the action. Whether watching in person or following from afar, supporters are an essential part of the Rugby Fives community and are always made to feel welcome.

Looking ahead, the Rugby Fives Association continues to explore new ways to grow the sport and enhance the experience of everyone involved. Plans for the coming seasons include expanding participation programmes, strengthening relationships with schools and universities, and developing new initiatives to engage the wider public. The association also remains attentive to the needs of its existing community, listening to feedback and refining its offerings to ensure they remain relevant and valuable. With a clear sense of purpose and a dedicated team behind it, the RFA is well placed to build on its achievements and take Rugby Fives confidently into the future.

Where to Play

Courts across the country

Rugby Fives is played at schools, universities and clubs throughout the UK. Whether you are a seasoned competitor or picking up a glove for the first time, the RFA can help connect you with local venues and fellow players.

Fixtures & Tournaments

The competitive calendar

The RFA calendar includes championships, open tournaments, and school and university matches. Major events have included the National Open Singles, the South West Open, the London Open, the Scottish Open, and the Owers Trophy — alongside representative fixtures against schools and clubs.