From Our Roots to Our Rise: Why Now is the Time to Back the Markham Irish Canadian Rugby Club

As the summer comes to a close, we’re called to reflect on our proud past, celebrate our resurgence, and look ahead to an even greater future.

Our story spans three legacies: the Irish Canadian Rugby Club founded in 1950, the Markham Rugby Football Club founded in 1980, and the uniting of both into the Markham Irish Canadian Rugby Club in 2010. Over the decades, these clubs have produced champions, hall-of-famers, and international players and referees alike. We have lifted McCormick Cups, won league championships, and created memories that have lasted generations.

After COVID, the club faced one of its hardest hits yet. We had one Men’s team with no wins, no Women’s program, no Juniors beyond Minis, and only 75 registered players. Many clubs might not recover from a hit like that.

We did.

With Austin Drive becoming our full-time home, we invested in rebuilding programs and connecting with the local community. Today we have two competitive men’s sides with the first placing 3rd in the McCormick Championship division after moving up from the TRU in 2024, a women’s team that placed 5th in the TRU Premiership, multiple youth sides from U6 to U12, shared teams at U14, U16, and U18, and 230 registered players, a 315 percent increase since 2022.

Our vision is clear: competitive teams at every age and gender, more opportunities for players, referees, and supporters, the removal of financial barriers, and tours that connect us with the rugby world.

This is where our alumni and club supporters come in. You or a loved one may have worn our jersey, played for our crest, and know what it means to belong to this club. Now is the time to help the next generation feel that same pride. Whether through a monetary donation, corporate sponsorship, providing accommodation for players, or simply giving what you can, your support will make a lasting difference.

The Markham Irish Canadian Rugby Club is rising again. Let us rise together.

Learn How to Get Invovled

Markham Irish Teams of 2025

New Around the Clubhouse