Old Boys’ Boxing Day Rugby Fixture - A Celebration of Tradition, Rivalry and Impact

The annual Old Boys’ Boxing Day Rugby Match once again brought together alumni, families and friends for one of AKS Lytham’s most cherished sporting traditions. Held at Fylde RFC’s Woodlands Memorial Ground on 26th December, the fixture between the Old Arnoldians' and Old Lidunians' was a celebration not only of rugby, but of shared heritage, enduring friendships and a collective commitment to supporting future generations

Played in true festive spirit, the match delivered an entertaining and competitive contest. This year, the Old Arnoldians' reclaimed the title with a well earned 27 to 10 victory. Yet, as ever, the scoreline told only a small part of the story. From the first whistle to the final handshake, the afternoon was defined by sportsmanship, camaraderie and a genuine sense of occasion, with players spanning multiple generations of AKS and its heritage schools taking to the field.

Beyond the action on the pitch, the day achieved something truly remarkable off it. Thanks to the generosity of those who attended, supported and donated, £5,039 was raised on the day and subsequently match funded to an outstanding £10,078 for the Gamechanger Campaign. These vital funds will go directly towards providing fully funded sports scholarships and bursaries, ensuring talented young people can access the outstanding sporting and educational opportunities at AKS, regardless of background.

The success of the event was made possible by the collective efforts of many. Our sincere thanks go to Fylde RFC for once again hosting the fixture and providing such a welcoming home for this much-loved tradition. We are also extremely grateful to King Street Dental Surgery (Blackpool) for their generous sponsorship of the players’ post match refreshments, a contribution very much appreciated by those who took part.

Special thanks are extended to Mort and Pal Video Production and Editing (Old Arnoldians), for capturing the spirit and drama of the day so beautifully, allowing the wider AKS and OAKS community to relive the occasion through the video highlights. Their work ensures this tradition continues to be shared well beyond the touchline.

Above all, thank you to every alumnus who pulled on a shirt, every supporter who braved the winter weather and everyone who contributed to making the day such a success. The Old Boys’ Boxing Day Match remains a powerful reminder of what makes the AKS and OAKS community so special, pride in our past, enthusiasm in the present and a shared determination to create opportunities for the future.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back again next year for the next chapter of this enduring Boxing Day tradition.