14 May 2026
A St Albans-based rugby club is on the verge of history, as OA Saints prepare for a landmark day at Twickenham that could cement their status as Hertfordshire’s most successful rugby club, across both the men’s and women’s game.
On Sunday May 24, both the OA Saints 1st XV and 2nd XV will compete in national finals at the home of English rugby in what is an unprecedented achievement for the club and a clear statement of their dominance in the women’s amateur game.
Based in St Albans, Old Albanians RFC and its women’s section, OA Saints, have long been central to rugby in Hertfordshire, widely recognised as a leading force in the county — particularly in the women’s game.
The 2nd XV booked their place in the Intermediate Cup Final with an emphatic victory over Liverpool St Helens and will face Ivybridge at 1pm.
The 1st XV followed with a dramatic 24–21 semi-final win over Cheltenham Tigers, setting up a blockbuster Championship Final against Richmond at 3pm.
This double appearance marks a major milestone. The 2nd XV became the first OA side to play at Twickenham in 2024, followed by the 1st XV in 2025. Now, in 2026, both teams will walk out together as a powerful reflection of the club’s growth and depth.
The Saints’ success extends beyond the senior teams. The Under 18s have also been crowned National Cup champions at Sixways, underlining the strength of a thriving junior pathway, with at least 10 Twickenham players coming through the youth ranks.
Founded in 1989 at St Albans Rugby Club the Saints remain deeply rooted in St Albans. With a history that includes Premiership rugby and current dominance in Championship 1, the 1st XV now aim to retain their 2025/26 national title-topped ranked amateur side in England.
Since relaunching the 2nd XV in 2019, the club has built a pathway for women and girls playing rugby locally. The 2nd XV winning their Championship 2 league this season.
Under head coach Sarah McKenna, a former England international and current Saracen, the Saints have developed a high-performance culture grounded in inclusivity and ambition. With three national titles across senior and junior levels, few clubs can match their success.
Yet challenges for women’s sport remain significant. Despite their achievements, players still contribute financially, all coaching is voluntary, and the team continues to wear kit dating back to 2018.
As OA Saints prepare to represent St Albans and Hertfordshire on rugby’s biggest stage, they do so as more than finalists, they are proof of what community, commitment and ambition can achieve. Could you support them? For sponsorship opportunities, please contact: Saints@oarugby.com
Photos by Chris Bateman
