The Briars Sports Club has a unique and rich history, originating from a group of young boys with a passion for sport.
On August 7, 1918, a remarkable meeting took place in a disused fowl-yard at Bob Clark’s place. Fourteen boys, aged 9 to 13, came together to form a sporting club. The idea for the club was proposed by Jack Stone and the club’s name “The Briars Sporting Club” was chosen after Jack’s house, which was named “The Briars.” The initial color for the club was red, but it was changed to maroon due to the “bashfulness” of some members. Maroon and gold have been the club’s colors ever since. In 1920, the club adopted its motto, “Virtus Animusque Praesens” (Courage and Presence of Mind), which was suggested by a neighbor of one of the members.
In its early days, the club’s activities were centered around cricket and football (rugby), which were played in backyards and local paddocks. The Briars entered its first official competition in 1922, fielding a cricket team in the Western Suburbs Cricket Association. In 1923, they entered the 2nd Grade N.S.W. Junior Rugby Union competition. The club’s first rugby premiership was won in 1925 by the 1st XV. By this time, the club had grown significantly and even had members, such as Mal Blair and Billy Mann, who went on to play for Australia.
Throughout its history, Briars Sports has expanded to include a wide range of sports. Hockey was introduced in 1946 and squash in 1956. The club leased its first premises in Burwood, New South Wales, in 1929 and eventually purchased the property in 1950, securing a liquor license in 1954.
Today, Briars Sports is a thriving multi-sport club with a strong presence in the inner west of Sydney, with a sporting program that includes rugby, cricket, hockey, squash, netball, lawn bowls, and touch football. It remains dedicated to the ideals of amateur sport and provides opportunities for both senior and junior athletes.
