This year we are celebrating the centenary of Rugby at Ipswich School.  That's right, it's 100 years ago that Sherwood introduced Rugby to the School.

The School has produced some impressive Rugby professionals, including the likes of England Men's Rugby internationals Colin Simpson 933 (OI 1955-61) & Mark Bailey 1088 (OI 1972-79). Also, Keith Wilkinson (OI 1955-67) who emigrated to Canada and won three caps playing for Canada vs Barbarians June 1976  vs France September 1978 and vs France October 1978. Keith sadly passed away in January 2022.

Jeremy Barr (OI 1946-56) recalls in 1955 (70 years ago this year) that Ipswich School attended the Rosslyn Park 7s tournament for the very first time. This was after a last minute invitation to attend and as the 1st team captain he was sent to knock on players doors at their homes to sign them up to travel and play. The Rosslyn Park ground was at that time in Old Deer Park, Richmond, they subsequently relocated to Roehampton, the venue for the present tournament. The scratch team also included one of the 1954/5 Colts side, Ray Hagger (OI 1951-59).  He went on to captain a very successful 1st XV and claimed to have been instrumental in the replacement of the stripes to plain blue for the 1st XV. 

More recently Eduardo Todaro (OI 2021-25) had played internationally for Italy, and recently made his Premiership debut for Northampton Saints against Exeter Chiefs, crossing the line not once, but twice - an unforgettable introduction to the big stage!

On Saturday 11th October 2025 we invited OI's to join us at the School for a casual lunch, followed by heading to Notcutts to watch the 1st XV play Oundle. Colin Simpson and Mark Bailey were in attendance, along with Rugby players from many year groups.  A few of the 1st XV even popped in to meet Colin and Mark. It was great to hear the enthusiastic chatter as everyone caught up and discussed their experience of Rugby at Ipswich School.  You can see all the images from the day by viewing the photo gallery.