A history of the South African Rugby Football Board (SARFB): early years, 1889–1914

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper recounts the early history of the South African Rugby Football Board (SARFB). The Board’s official records are investigated to shed light on its institutional character, functions and development from 1889 to 1914. The organisation’s inner workings on both a local and international level will be explored to open a window into the history of rugby administration in South Africa. This is an aspect of the sport, which, despite its general popularity, have hitherto remained largely unexplored.