Sarnia Saints R.F.C.

Be safe everyone 🤍🤍🤍

The Club is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Saints Hall of Fame member Ray Rothenbury. Ray was a friend & builder of Sarnia Rugby and our game all across Ontario.

Ray was instrumental in guiding the club as a player for Sarnia 1sts, 2nds & the SOB's (Sarnia Old Boys), The Golden Beavers, as well as representing Hamilton RFC and Rugby Ontario.

His contributions to grass-roots rugby in Sarnia and SWORU are unparalleled, and included the following roles:
- high-school rugby coach
- Lambton College Men’s Rugby program coach for several years
- Sarnia Saints Club Captain
- Sarnia Saints Club President
- member of the Sarnia Rugby Executive, holding every position at least once
- SWORU President
- member of SWORU Executive
- member of SW Ontario Referees Society

Ray served in every Sarnia & SWORU executive position at least one year each and many for several years.

Off the pitch, he was often known to lead a Rugby-song or three or four. It’s been said that he had a sharp wit in the club-house, and sharp elbows in the lineout!

It's fair to say that rugby in Sarnia would not be what it is today without Ray's contributions.
He was a great supporter of the Sarnia Saints Rugby Club and our game.

Pictured above is a classic photo of Ray (second Saint from the left) in peak line-out form for the time, circa early-1980’s; he may have been into his 50’s in this image. Playing alongside him are other Saints players from the era, left to right; Kevin Bradd, Matt Groombridge, Jan With, and Chris Groombridge.

In honour of Ray, please bring your memories and stories to share at our clubhouse. The Saints value our Legacy/Alumni members to relate stories of our club’s history.

Trying to relive the excitement of last night, in preparation for a big day tomorrow 💗✨🏉