About the club
Our Legacy — Over 130 Years
The Nanaimo Hornets were originally formed under the name of Nanaimo Rovers in the year 1888, one of 3 Vancouver Island teams in that year.
The name was changed later that century. Up until the mid 1970's, the Hornets have moved their home pitch to numerous venues finally building our own Hornets' Nest at May Bennett Park. The club built a 3500 square foot log building that houses a main hall, licensed bar, kitchen, change rooms, and more.
The building is situated overlooking the international size rugby pitch that was a labour of love for our members. We are fortunate to have a great working relationship with the City of Nanaimo with respect to the maintenance and usage of the field (the Hornets cleared and built the field shortly after the clubhouse was finished).
The Nanaimo Hornets field 2 Men's teams, 1 women's team, a Masters level team (the Yoos Too Bees) and a flourishing Jr. and Minis program.
Timeline
1888
Founded as Nanaimo Rovers
One of just three Vancouver Island rugby teams that year.
Late 1800s
Renamed the Nanaimo Hornets
The club adopts the name — and the black & gold — it still wears today.
Mid-1970s
The Hornets' Nest is built
After years on borrowed pitches, members build a log clubhouse and international-size pitch at May Bennett Park.
Today
A club for everyone
2 Men's teams, 1 Women's team, Masters (the Yoos Too Bees), and flourishing Junior & Minis programs.
Looking to the future
Strategic Plan
The Hornets Executive board has developed a strategic plan, key areas of focus on how to grow the club into an inclusive, successful, and sustainable community-based rugby club.
View 2024–2027 Strategic PlanReview the plan and provide feedback to Paul Cleaver at pcleaver1970@yahoo.com.
Why we play
Mission Statement
“We are committed to developing and growing rugby in the Nanaimo community. We do so by embracing an inclusive culture with opportunities for players and members of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds both on and off the field.”