Rugby at Isipathana College is more than just a sport, it is a way of life. Even from a young age, students play improvised versions of rugby during their free time, laying the foundation for a culture of passion, teamwork, and excellence on the field.
In the late 1950s, Mrs. Geddes, an English teacher and rugby enthusiast, sought to introduce rugby at Greenlands College, the former name of Isipathana College. Although her efforts were initially unsuccessful, her passion planted the seeds for the sport’s future at the school.
By 1961, Headmaster Mr. H. T. de Silva, with the help of Peterite alumni including Mr. Jayantha Fernando, formed the school’s first rugby team. Randy C. Keller, son of a former Havelocks player, became the team’s first captain. The team played its first interschool match in 1963 against St. Anthony’s College, Katugastota, winning 8 to 0. Dayalu Perera scored the first try, converted by Tony Maathara, marking a historic start for Pathana rugby.
In 1965, Isipathana was officially recognized by the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union (SLRFU). Under coaches Frankie David and leaders like Juraghan Savanghan and Thajone Savanghan, the team achieved remarkable unbeaten runs. By 1969, Isipathana had earned the reputation of the “Kings of Schools Rugby”, with rivals Royal and Trinity refusing to face them. Key players such as Hafi Abdeen and Sriyantha Rajakaruna also represented Sri Lanka Schools.
A brief setback occurred in 1972 due to a Union suspension, but Nalin de Silva revived the team. He personally coached and handpicked players to rebuild a winning squad by 1973, even facing international teams such as the British ‘Nomads’.
The arrival of O. W. R. Perera as 1st XV coach in 1978 marked a golden era. Under his guidance, rugby became a true tradition at Isipathana College. Highlights included:
By the 1990s, Isipathana achieved unprecedented success. In 1992, the team won six out of seven major trophies, including the Under-19 Triple Crown, Under-15 and Under-17 league titles, and the Under-13 Mini Rugby championship. In 1997 and 1999, Isipathana became the first school to win the Under-19 Grand Slam, triumphing in the League, President’s Trophy, Sevens, and WP 10s.
Isipathana has produced many national-level players, including:
The school also achieved international recognition, earning awards for “Most Outstanding Team” in Bangkok between 1979 and 1982 and “Best Overseas Team” in Malaysia in 1991.
Rugby at Isipathana College thrives because of the dedication of students, staff, parents, and alumni. Pioneers such as Randy Kellar, H. T. de Silva, Jayantha Fernando, Frankie David, O. W. R. Perera, and members of Havelock Sports Club helped establish and sustain the sport. Today, rugby continues to symbolize Pathana pride, inspiring generations with its spirit of determination, teamwork, and excellence.