Academy RFC came into existence in February 1975 following an extraordinary General Meeting of Belfast Royal Academy (Former Pupils) Rugby and Cricket Clubs, and Owls Ladies Hockey Club, at which Academy Sports Club was formed.
BRA(FP)RFC had been formed in 1945 and played in the Junior League with considerable success until 1967 when promotion to the Ulster Senior League was gained. During this period several players gained representative honours with Junior Ulster, and there were several victories in the McCrea Cup, Past Players Cup and Junior Leagues. Only the Junior Cup eluded some fine senior teams.
Following promotion to the Senior League, BRA(FP) RFC continued to produce many fine players and enjoyed considerable success. At one stage in the early 1970s the club regularly fielded 7 teams. As a result of financial pressures and a reduction in the playing strength in 1991 a decision was taken by the club to relinquish Senior Status and re-apply for admission to the Junior Leagues once again.
Since 1992 the club has consolidated its position within Ulster rugby. Recently Academy gained promotion to Kukri Ulster League Section 2 where it has competed well. Short term aspirations for the club are centred around further promotion to Section 1, with the medium term goal reinstatement within the All Ireland League.
While Academy RFC welcomes members from all walks of life, it continues to promote a strong historic link with former pupils of Belfast Royal Academy. Indeed most of the current growth within the club is attributable to this link. In addition the club has a progressive committee which currently working on a number of exciting projects including a new club house development.
Academy Rugby Football Club 