Our History
The formation of Samford and District RLFC
It all began in February 1970, after a lively discussion at the Golden Valley Hotel. For almost a year, a ragtag group of lads had been talking about forming a Rugby League team to compete in Brisbane's Metropolitan Competition, affectionately known as the Old Pub League. Their dream came to life when they entered the Grade C Metropolitan competition for the 1970 season. Initially, the team was called the Golden Valley Hotel Club, named after their major sponsor.
By 1971, the club had adopted the name Samford and chosen the national colors of the Kangaroos for their playing strip, officially registering with the league. The early games were played on what is now Alan Cash Oval, with some matches taking place at the Trotting training track on Davison Rd, Camp Mountain, and others at the Samford Showgrounds. The Cash family generously donated the land for Alan Cash Oval, allowing the team to have a home field. Back then, saplings from the surroundings served as goal posts, and it's unclear when the Stags became the club's mascot.
Changing Times and Configurations
Originally, the field ran in a north-to-south direction, with makeshift change rooms under the Farmers Hall. Today, the field runs east to west, a unique configuration as most grounds are oriented north to south to avoid one side running into the sun during late afternoon games. Post-game festivities were held at the Golden Valley Hotel, now known as The Samford Hotel, where wins and losses were celebrated long into the night.
The club's first clubhouse, constructed by passionate players and volunteers, was a modest Besser block building. It had no verandas or awnings, just walls, toilets, a bar, and a fireplace. Over time, it evolved into the vibrant hub it is today.
The club's first clubhouse, constructed by passionate players and volunteers, was a modest Besser block building. It had no verandas or awnings, just walls, toilets, a bar, and a fireplace. Over time, it evolved into the vibrant hub it is today.
Triumphs and Growth
The Samford Stags won their first President's Cup in 1971, followed by victories in 1972, 1974, 1977, 1978, 2010, 2016, and 2019. They also secured Minor Premierships in 1974 and 2019. The Stags celebrated major triumphs, being crowned Premiers in 1977, 1994, 2001, and 2010.
Initially focused on senior players, the club expanded to include junior competitions as the area grew. In 1994, the Samford and District RLFC fielded its first junior teams in the Under 8, 9, and 12 competitions, with Under 7s joining in 1997. The juniors celebrated their first successes in 2004 with a President's Cup win, followed by Grand Final victories in 2006 for both the Under 14 and 16 teams.
In 2017, the club introduced a League Tots program for our youngest Stags, ages 3-5, ensuring the love for Rugby League starts early and stays strong.
Initially focused on senior players, the club expanded to include junior competitions as the area grew. In 1994, the Samford and District RLFC fielded its first junior teams in the Under 8, 9, and 12 competitions, with Under 7s joining in 1997. The juniors celebrated their first successes in 2004 with a President's Cup win, followed by Grand Final victories in 2006 for both the Under 14 and 16 teams.
In 2017, the club introduced a League Tots program for our youngest Stags, ages 3-5, ensuring the love for Rugby League starts early and stays strong.
1970
Starting off
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First employees
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Phase two
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Phase two
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Phase two
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