Our Story
Est. 1991
Starting in 1991, Blackswans RFC was created by John Brogan and Jeff Wood Sr as a way to bring rugby culture to Stratford. During that year, they managed to bring together a group of both young highschool players, as well as a few old veterans to play their first game at the SERC water tower field against the Sarnia Saints. The match was lost but the Swans were far from defeated as that marked the beginning of 30 years of Blackswan rugby in Stratford. Over the many years of operation the Swans have hosted many touring sides as well as setting out on tours themselves.
Influenced by Scotland in the early days the Swans wore a blue jersey with a white collar. This quickly changed to a striped purple and black jersey after being influenced by Stratford England's Shottery RFC after a sister cities tour hosted in stratford. This marked the birth of the purple and black legacy that we know today.
In modern club history, the the colours of the Blackswans jersey have gone through many different variations and “eras”, as they each hold legacy in their history of what they achieved during use. Since the introduction of the throwback purple and black hooped jerseys, the team has created a culture of rugby around integrity and indebted hard work that comes with the territory of wearing the purple and black.
As the club evolves, the introduction of the Women’s team and junior program have become important parts of the growth and success of current day Swans. Now home to 4 teams of all different devisions and age groups, the Blackswans offer rugby for everyone.
In 2013, the Blackswans finished with a 9-0-1 record on the season. After returning home from tour, the Swans were ready for the NRU season to kickoff and hit the pitch in great form. This was the beginning of a large growth year for the club, as many young players were fighting for spots that longtime veterans held. You knew the club was going places as our numbers were strong and our team was growing. A great finish to the year was the night game win under the lights versus St. Catherine’s to solidify the title.
2019 was an overall great season for the Blackswans. Finishing the year unbeaten in exhibition, with an 8-0 record in the regular season, a Calcutta Cup win and the NRU playoff tournament championship marks the most successful season the Club has seen through its existence. A huge commitment by the players, coach and executive was the vital reason for the club’s success.
Notable Achievements
NRU “A” DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIPS x 2
NRU “B” CHAMPIONSHIPS x 3
NRU “C” CHAMPIONSHIPS x 3
1 WOMENS NRU TITLE - 2017
2 UNDEFEATED SEASONS – 2013/2019
2021 is the 30th anniversary of the Stratford Blackswans rugby club
Our Club has come a long way from its roots in 1991.
We are now a generational club with fathers and sons participating at the Sr level. The Woods (Jeff and Jeff Jr,) The Frayne’s (Marty and Declan), The Sinko’s (Frank and Brad) are the families the Swans have seen both Dad and Son pull over the Black and Purple and sometimes at the same time.
The NEST:
In 2013, the Blackswans began a partnership agreement with the ANAF Unit 261 to make the pitch behind their venue the new Swans home, or as it is referred to now: THE NEST.
It took the removal of 10 trees, constant seeding, rolling and new sod. This effort got the pitch ready for us to erect our goal posts and be ready for our Stratford day Kickoff in July 2014.
All of this is was accomplished by the hard work of Blackswans volunteers putting in constant hours to make our new home one of the best pitches in the province.
All of our members have the ability to use it at anytime and makes it a great place go for rugby, training or to just reflect.
******** This is where I really great photo of the field will go (DRONE SHOT) *********
Blackswans Code of Conduct
Code for Players
Play for enjoyment and become part of the rugby family. Respect the "Game of Rugby" and play within the laws of the Game. Accept the referee's decision and let your captain or coach ask any relevant questions. No exceptions!!!! – You will be substituted!! Play with control. Do not lose your temper. Always do your best and be committed to the game, your team and your club. Respect your opponent. Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Rugby is a team sport and make sure you co-operate with your coach; teammates and members of your club. Remember that the goals of the game are to have fun, improve your skills and feel good. Always remember that you owe a duty of care to your opponents. Tackle hard but fairly, do not intend to hurt your opponent. Winning and losing is part of sport: Win with humility - lose with dignity. As part of the team it is important that you attend training regularly and listen to your coach and help your team. As a team sport it is important to understand that all members are important to the team! Respect your fellow teammates, your coaches, your executive!!!! Remember you are representing your team, club, family and the Army and Navy and Air Force Veterans of Canada as well as the Game of Rugby.
Code for Parents/Supporters
Remember, young people play rugby for their enjoyment, not only yours. Encourage your child always to play by the Laws of the Game. Teach young children that honest endeavor is as important as winning, so that the result of each game is accepted without disappointment. Help young people to work towards skill improvement and good sportsmanship. Set a good example by applauding good play on both sides. Never ridicule, humiliate or shout at young players for making a mistake or losing a match. Do not place emphasis on winning at all costs. Do not force an unwilling child to participate in the playing of rugby. If the child is to play, he/she will do so in good time through your encouragement. Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from rugby. As a spectator do not use profane language or harass referees, coaches or players. Do not publicly question the referees' judgement and never their honesty. Recognize the value and importance of volunteer referees and coaches. Identify and acknowledge the good qualities of the Game of Rugby and uphold these values. Understand the value of team sport and the importance there of.
Code for Spectators
Remember that although young people play organized rugby they are not "miniature internationals". Be on your best behavior and lead by example. Do not use profane language or harass referees, players or coaches. Applaud good play by the visiting team as well as your own. Show respect for your team's opponents. Without them there would not be a match. Condemn the use of violence in all forms at every opportunity. Verbal abuse of players or referees cannot be accepted in any shape of form. Players or referees are not fair targets for ignorant behavior. Encourage young players to play by the Laws of the Game. Spectators can contribute to the enjoyment of the event and all involved. Be proud of your club and the Game of Rugby.
