The early part of the decade saw foundational changes both for Scottish rugby and down at Ardencaple. The SRU introduced what we know now as ‘league rugby’ starting in season 1973-74 (before that bigger club 1st XVs played in what was known as the ‘unofficial Club Championship’) consisting of National Leagues (Divisions 1 to 7) with a regional set-up below that.
Burgh were assigned to the Glasgow and District League but had far more reason to celebrate when, in spring 1972, they amalgamated with the town’s cricket club to form – wait for it! – Helensburgh Cricket and Rugby Football Club.
This union eventually paved the way for a spanking new clubhouse, completed in 1974, and through the middle part of the 1970s Helensburgh RFC were formidable opponents, gaining promotion to National League division seven in 1977, albeit a short-lived stint.
A Colts team was established at this time and soon mini- and midi-rugby had arrived thanks to the foresight of guys like Peter Elles, Fred Prime and John McNeill. Helensburgh’s Youth section – which has been thriving ever since – has long been the conveyor belt underpinning the senior teams’ rises and falls through the ages.
The madcap 1980s was a decade of consolidation for the club and though no further promotions to the Nationals followed, Helensburgh became a firm fixture in the Glasgow District scene, respected for hosting fine Sevens, 10s and Over-30s tournaments that always rounded off each season in style among old friends and new.