Applicants to Durham must be in no doubt about the high level of academic commitment expected of students, but there is clear evidence that where a student sensibly prioritises his time, then high attainment in both sport and academic work can be achieved.

'The 3 years I spent with DURFC were immensely beneficial to me. The strength in depth of Durham rugby enabled me to constantly develop as a player and undoubtedly helped me to be capped by England U21s and also to gain a professional contract with Newcastle Falcons. Moreover the student run structure of the club equips its players with many of the tools required for life away from the university and outside of rugby. I will forever remember my time with the DURFC with great fondness and would recommend Durham university to any aspiring rugby player wishing to combine high level academic studies with elite rugby'

Ben Woods
Premiership,England saxons and U21 player

Prospective applicants may wish to know something of the Club’s relationship with Newcastle Falcons.  Whilst all Durham students are expected to play for the University Club when so asked to do, nevertheless, the University enjoys a well cultivated relationship with the Falcons.  The club respects the University’s long tradition of academic primacy and, in turn, the University recognise the significant benefit to players of playing through association with the Falcons.

Currently, Durham graduates  Ollie Phillips, Ben Woods, Tom Dillon and Rob Vickers are contracted to the club; many others benefit from association at various levels.  One of our former students Mark Laycock helps to direct the junior academy.

The huge expansion of University rugby has stretched current playing facilities, but a programme is now in hand to install a huge rubber crumb training area and the University enjoys a supportive alliance with Durham City Rugby Club which allows us to utilise their beautifully appointed ground.

 For more infomation on the club contact Club Captain James Dennis at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it