Club History

The Rats Tradition

After experiencing many difficult years with many humiliating defeats the players were reminded by Doug Leslie Snr (a Rat of Tobruk), that to give up in the face of adversity is never an option. The tradition of the Rats of Tobruk, of bonding together and making commitments in the true spirit of mateship should always be remembered and will prevail just in the same way as the Desert Rats of Tobruk prevailed. From that time on the Club became known as the Green Rats and their long held friendship with the 'Rats of Tobruk Veterans Association' and their legacy is honoured by a memorial on the hill at the southern end of 'Rat Park'.

Values of Warringah Rugby Club

At Warringah, our inherited values have shaped a proud rugby tradition that spans more than 40 years. A clear understanding of those values will help us meet the obligation we have to preserve and enhance what we have inherited, especially the Warringah name and all it represents. It also enables us to pass on a Club that will continue to strive to reach its highest potential for future generations of players, members and sponsors.

Although the Club operates in an ever-changing environment, our values remain constant. They don't shift with time or circumstances. They don't yield to whim or convenience. They apply to all areas, and are clearest when viewed in relation to these elements: players, members, sponsors and community.

The Importance of Our Players

Our players are the Club's most important resource. Their efforts contribute directly to the Club's success and lead it towards the future. The Club is a partnership built upon mutual trust and respect. To maintain this relationship, the Club must be committed to upholding certain principles on every level. The first and most important principal is that every player's contribution is valuable. Each individual is necessary to the success of the Club as a whole. In recognition of that principle the Club is committed to helping each player reach his or her full potential by providing training and advancement on the basis of merit, without bias or discrimination. As individuals, we must be committed to upholding high standards of personal conduct and to carry out our responsibilities in the best possible manner. In addition we must treat our fellow players and members with trust respect and dignity. We are committed to providing an environment for all players to develop their skills and abilities. As partners, the Club and players must be sensitive to each other's needs and concerns. We believe in recognising the achievements of individual players. We will also show sensitivity to the needs of the Club's members and sponsors at all times. Finally the Club and players will work together to make Warringah Rugby Club a safe, healthy place to work and play.

The Importance of Members and Sponsors

The trust, respect and loyalty of members and sponsors are vital to the Club's success. We earn and maintain these attributes by making the Club's success our number one priority – on and off the field. On the field we will strive to win, playing to the best of our ability, strictly adhering to the ARU code of conduct. Off the field we totally commit ourselves to our members and sponsors, by developing relationships based on trust and mutual respect; and by championing the success of their activities or business.

Our Club and Our Community

The Club believes that it has a responsibility to work for the betterment of the community. When the Club and community work together, there are significant benefits for all parties. To reinforce this commitment, the Club will operate in an ethical manner, carefully observing all laws and regulations; will be sensitive to community needs; will act in partnership with other businesses, agencies of government, and civic organisations to improve the quality of life for everyone in our community. Accordingly, the Club encourages individual player, member and sponsor involvement in community activities at all levels. Using Club resources, we will engage in a selected range of philanthropic activities in our community, seek leadership roles, and remain in close contact with other private sector and governmental leaders.

Junior Development

Warringah has one of the largest numbers of registered junior players in Australia. The solid foundation of village clubs from Collaroy, Dee Why, Narrabeen, Newport, Pittwater House, St Augustine's, Terrey Hills and Wakehurst field over 50 teams ranging in age groups from under 7 years to under 17 years.

A sound knowledge base of learn to play, an emphasis on skills without the win at all costs attitude is provided from an early age and treated as a priority throughout all age groups. Walla and Mini Rugby are held at one venue each week for Under 7's, 8's and Under 9's age groups. From the Under 10's up, the fifteen-a-side game comes into play on the full size playing field. This progression builds confidence and provides good team experience.

The junior competition runs from March to the end of August each year.

During the season all village clubs combine to form representative teams from the Under 10's to the Under 17's age groups. These teams represent Warringah in the various NSW State Championships and have been very successful over the years. Players can represent Sydney at Under 15 and 16 levels and this can lead to even greater honours with State and National representation