History
The Bytown Blues were founded on October 31, 1971 when members of the Ottawa Indians RFC felt the need for a new club. On that Hallowe’en night, seven members were present to form the Bytown Blues Rugby Football Club. At the time of the meeting, it was decided that Doug McDonald would become the interim chairman until a general meeting could be held in the upcoming months. The first annual general meeting was held in Febuary of 1972, at which time McDonald was chosen president of the club. He held this position for the first five years of the club.
In the early years of the club, the Blues played their games within the Quebec Rugby Union. The 1st XV struggled in those first couple seasons, with the first league victory coming at the end of the 1973 season against Deep River by a score of 20-3. The 2nd XV began play with a winning record in their first season, 5 wins against 3 losses. The highlight of their campaign was a 62-10 victory over the Ottawa Irish 2nd XV. The Bytown Blues 3rd XV began play in the 1980 season. The squad were undefeated in league play for the year, with their only loss coming in an exhibition match.
Notable Tours
- 1974 – United Kingdom
- 1977 – New Zealand
- 1981 – United Kingdom
- 1985 – Kenya
Life Members
One of the highest honours that a Bytown Blue member can be given is that of the title ‘Life Member’. Over the course of time, there have been many players and contributors that have been entered into this special group.