Bayside History

Founded in 1988 through the merger of Tsawwassen RFC, located on the north shore of the bay, and Semiahmoo Old Boys RFC, situated on the south shore, Bayside Rugby Football Club was born out of a shared passion for the game. This merger brought together two clubs with similar philosophies, and their union was met with optimism and excitement. Today, Bayside is proud to call South Surrey Athletic Park home, where we enjoy a prominent presence in the community.

Tsawwassen Rugby Club: In 1987 the team returned from a tour to the UK and Ireland, expecting the experience to strengthen the bonds within the club. Tours were meant to unify a team — shared jerseys, shared pints, shared stories. Instead, the opposite happened. When the squad came home, several key players stepped away from the game, and the club suddenly found itself thinner than it had expected. That same period saw Tsawwassen competing against Semiahmoo Rugby Club at what was officially labelled Division 1, though those who were there knew it was Division 2 in reality.

Semiahmoo Rugby Club: The 1987/88 season started with an influx of kiwi imports that played into the 2nd half of the season. When they left, the players that they had displaced didn’t come back. We began to forfeit a few games. Then began the talks with Tsawwassen. Our biggest problem was obviously our top talent leaving for first division clubs and they saw a Jr program and the opportunity to future growth in South Surrey.

The discussion: After a match between Tsawwassen & Semiahmoo, conversations over beers revealed that Semiahmoo was facing similar struggles. Both clubs liked each other, respected the game, and recognized that community rugby was stronger together than apart. Out of those honest, post-match discussions came the idea of a merger. At the same time, Tsawwassen Rugby Club was being pushed out of Delta, while Surrey’s parks board was seen as progressive and supportive of growing sport. As President, Matt Kelly worked to convince the membership that relocation was not only necessary, but an opportunity. It was no small task — moving a club means moving identity, history, and pride — but the vote passed at a Tsawwassen membership meeting in 1988. The decision was made to relocate and build something new in South Surrey.

The Merger: The name “Bayside” emerged from that pivotal moment, symbolizing both geography and a fresh start. The merger required key personnel to anchor the new side. Two central figures were Scott Hubich and Neil Van Fleet. The forward pack was formidable: Blackie and Monster up front, Ziggy from Semiahmoo, Ron Van Fleet and Warren Wozney in the second row. Tom Wilson and Wayne Marshall were slated for the flanks, with hopes of Neil at number eight and Scott at scrum-half. Tragically, the summer of 1988 changed everything. Neil suffered a serious injury, and Scott fell from a cliff and passed away. The loss devastated the club. What had been a strategic merger built around cornerstone players suddenly had to proceed without them. The emotional toll was heavy, but the commitment to continue was stronger.

Matt Kelly, alongside Steve Black, Mike McLennan, and Donny Wright, kept the club moving forward. Tom Wilson’s influence remained significant during those formative years. Coaching leadership from Charlie Minns — regarded as one of the best — alongside John Narbett, helped steady the rugby side. John Pye stood by the club through every challenge. Dave Kaye and Peter Johnson were standouts on the field, while Peter McBride contributed not only commitment but three sons to the program. The culture of the new club was built as much on character as on results. Chuck Wardell embraced club traditions with enthusiasm, Dave Matier brought personality (sometimes more than requested), and Pat Kelly — not Matt, but Pat — earned a reputation for toughness that symbolized the resilience of the entire group.

A Legacy of Growth and Excellence

As a club, we take immense pride in the development of our players and the strong rugby culture we've built over the years. Our mission is simple: to provide an environment where players of all ages can experience the joy of rugby in the true spirit of competition. It’s no accident that Bayside has earned a reputation as a breeding ground for emerging talent, with many of our players excelling at provincial and national levels. We look forward to continuing this proud tradition into the future, shaping the next generation of rugby stars.