Senior Squad
Our Motto
“One Club… One Heart… One Beat!”
Origins
& Early Years
- Founded in 1969 under a streetlamp at the corner of Hospital & Old Main Road, with the official rugby journey launching in 1970
- Initial practices took place at Highbury Prep, with meetings at the Hillcrest Hotel, affectionately known as “the Big House”
- In 1973, their playing field was established at Hillcrest Sports Club; they entered the KZNRU leagues starting in Division 7, soon earning promotion by winning Division 6 the following year
- In 2011 moved to Durban Shongweni Club which we continue to call “Home”
Community Growth & Development
- The club has remained a hallmark of family-driven, amateur rugby, focused on nurturing local talent from juniors through senior teams (U7’s to opens) with a current membership of in excess of 500 players.
- Our junior program has produced notable players like Craig Burden (Stade Français), Tyler Fisher (SWD Eagles), Geoff Appleford (England) and Ayron Schramm (Germany), Bryce Calvert & Lyle Mathews (Sharks U21) and Ethan Hooker (Springboks)
Competitive Highlights
Facilities & Sponsorship
- Due to growth, the club moved to the Durban Shongweni Club, boasting excellent facilities, night-lit fields, and family amenities
- Strong backing from sponsors like Dynamo Sports
Club Culture & Community Ethos
- Known for its clubmanship, the Villagers maintain an inclusive culture—senior, junior, veterans, and social members unite in support and camaraderie
- Facilitate many coaching workshops for several less priveleged development clubs in and around KZN
- Annual Charity / Fund Raising Initiative for a family / individual in need within the community
In essence, Hillcrest Villagers Rugby Club stands as a testament to community-based rugby—progressing from a village streetlamp meeting to a fully integrated, competitive club with a thriving legacy across all ages.