Beyond the Pitch

Image: (© IWM Q_002684)

Discover the Stories of Rugby Legends in the World Wars

Welcome to Beyond the Pitch, an extraordinary journey through history where rugby and bravery intertwine. Immerse yourself in the tales of rugby players who stood on both the field and the frontlines of the World Wars.

This captivating collection of stories, brought to you by the Commonwealth War Graves Foundation, pays homage to their courage and unwavering dedication, ensuring that their legacy lives on.

As you explore, you'll discover how you can visit the final resting places of these players, honouring their memory and making sure their stories aren’t forgotten.

Explore THE WAR GRAVES OF RUGBY LEGENDS

Our interactive map shows the final resting place of some of the rugby players who gave their lives in the World Wars and who are commemorated by Commonwealth War Graves cemeteries and memorials across France and Belgium.

Click the Filter icon on the map below (far left top corner) to view the different teams of the players we commemorate and their final resting places.

We Tell Their Stories

Second Lieutenant Eric Milroy

Scottish Rugby International 1910-1914 8th Black Watch - Killed in action, 18 July 1916

Serjeant David Gallaher

New Zealand International 1903-1906 2nd Auckland Regiment - Died of wounds, 4 October 1917

Lance Corporal John Abbott King

England Rugby International 1911-1913 10th King’s Liverpool Regiment - Killed in action, 9 August 1916

Find out more about these rugby players and how you can visit their final resting places.

Discover Their Stories

Download educational resource (ENG)Download educational resource (FR)

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By donating to the Commonwealth War Graves Foundation, you support projects like these to engage and educate people about the remarkable work of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC).