The Eastbourne rugby club has a rich history. It was founded in 1921 in part by the All Black halfback and captain for two tests that year against South Africa, Teddy Roberts, who was living in Eastbourne at that time. Roberts brought the All Blacks there for a visit in September that year ahead of their second test with the Springboks at Athletic Park (which was drawn 0-0). Another early highlight for the club and the community was the 1924 All Blacks training and using the facilities before they departed for Britain and France in what became the ‘Invincibles’ tour. Over the years the club continuously fielded teams in the various Rugby Union competitions, enjoying a strong identity and success in various senior grades. Another feature is the long list of local residents of note who have been in involved with the club, such as former Wellington Rugby Football boss and representative coach Clarrie Gibbons joining in 1928, while more recently, former NZRU President David Rutherford has served as Chairman. Today, Eastbourne fields just an Under 85 team