On Saturday, 21st August 2005 the official opening of the new RRUFC clubhouse and revamped pitches took place.

Chairman, Mike Holden, "cut the tape" in the presence of Rochdale Rugby Union supporters - of all ages. The press were well represented by the Manchester Evening News and the Rochdale Observer. Chris Jones, of Sale Sharks and England, joined us later to add to the occasion.

Senior players representing Rochdale's First Team and all of the Senior Squad took on Blackburn in a well fought, good spirited, and entertaining friendly. Grateful thanks to Blackburn for contributing to a great occasion. The previous evening the Vets welcomed their Littleborough counterparts and, would you believe but Rochdale Club Secretary ended up in casualty for three hours and spent the rest of the weekend with his leg in plaster. I think we can say that the new clubhouse has been officially initiated.

Rochdale RUFC were the Euromanx South Lancs/Cheshire 1 Champions for 2004/05 and are looking forward to the new season in the Powergen North 2 West division

On Sunday, 21st August, visiting teams from Aldwinians, Bury, Leigh and Oldham gave a good account of themselves against Rochdale’s own teams in the Minis age groups (Under 8s to Under 12s) and in the Juniors and Colts up to Under 19s.

Rochdale has the second biggest Junior section in the North West of England and a great number of them turned out for the celebrations this weekend.

Thank you to all those that attended and good luck for the forthcoming season.

You can see the write up on the Rochdale Observer website