NSRFC played its inaugural game against Royal
High RFC on the 17th March 1984. This, coincidentally, was the same date the Scottish national
team clinched their second Grand Slam beating France 21-12 at Murrayfield. The Newton Stewart line up contained
many local legends. Brian and David Allan, Dr. John Mc Donald, Donald Cameron, Neil Howie, Andy Vance and
captain Mike Henderson filled the Newton Stewart ranks with the home - grown talent that has laid the foundations for what
the club is today.
Newton Stewart started their life in the lowly Glasgow District leagues.
They stayed there for some time until the fruits of their hard work began to ripen, winning promotion in season 1996-97.
Life in the National leagues did not bring immediate success. Starting in National league division
5, after some SRU league re-structuring, Newton Stewart battled until 2003 before gaining promotion. Success
was achieved again in 2004. Triple promotion campaigns have taken the Machars outfit to
another level. Currently in National league division 2, the Red army travel the length and breadth of Scotland
competing at this higher standard of rugby football. It has taken real commitment from players, coaches,
supporters, sponsors and club officials alike.
Life at Newton Stewart
is not all serious. In the summer of 2002 the club successfully completed a pre-season tour to the United
States. £30,000 was raised and 30 of the lads toured to the state of Colorado to compete in a variety
of tournaments and matches. The tour of 2002 proved to be a winning formula as the club has experienced
unrivalled fortune since those heady days.
In 2009 club
membership is at its highest level with a 1st and 2nd XV being fielded most weeks. All
home matches are well supported and the team has a strong following to away games.
In 2010, the Newton
Stewart RFC dream will continue.
