White Gold: Swansea RFC 1872-1887

Swansea RFC, founded in 1872, is one of Wales' oldest and most illustrious rugby clubs. It was the first to beat the big three touring teams of New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa and enjoyed multiple Welsh Cup and Merit Table successes. White Gold, a meticulously researched book by club historian David Dow, tells the story of the club's first 15 years, including how it created an open, running playing style that quickly became known and revered around the rugby world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 580 pages
Publication date: 08 June 2023
Publisher: St David's Press

Swansea RFC, a founding member of the Welsh Rugby Union, holds a prestigious place among Wales' oldest and most illustrious rugby clubs. With a rich history spanning over 150 years, the club has achieved remarkable feats, including defeating the formidable touring teams of New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. Throughout its early years, Swansea RFC enjoyed numerous Welsh Cup and Merit Table triumphs, solidifying its position as a dominant force in Welsh rugby.

The club's origins trace back to 1872 when it was initially formed as an association football team. However, in 1874, the club underwent a transformation and adopted the sport of rugby football. The story of Swansea RFC's formative years is captivating, as it revolves around a group of Swansea cricketers who established a football club for winter recreation. They found a home at St. Helen's and quickly developed an open, running playing style that gained recognition and admiration throughout the rugby world.

Lavishly illustrated with numerous previously unpublished photographs, "White Gold: The First 150 Years of Swansea RFC" has been meticulously researched by club historian David Dow. This comprehensive study stands as the most thorough examination of the early days of rugby in Swansea ever published. It delves into rugby politics, both within and outside of Wales, exploring the social attitudes of the time and their profound influence on Welsh rugby and society.

In addition to its historical significance, "White Gold" offers extensive appendices that provide detailed information about the players, the club's first internationals, complete fixture lists, club captains, and point-scorers of the period. This added depth enhances the reader's understanding and appreciation of the club's rich heritage.

Swansea RFC's legacy continues to inspire and captivate rugby enthusiasts worldwide, and "White Gold" serves as a testament to the club's enduring spirit and contributions to the sport. Its pages are filled with stories of passion, dedication, and triumph, making it a must-read for anyone with an interest in rugby history and the remarkable journey of Swansea RFC.

Weight: 986g
Dimension: 244 x 170 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781904609070