Without doubt, the period 1984 to 89 represented six seasons of major change for the Grafton Rugby Club.
By the start of ’84, most of the core players who carried the Club through the late 70s and early 80s had moved on.
Luckily during this transition Grafton benefited from an influx of new players and the return of “masterful” coach Paul McLennan.
Grafton fielded three grades in 1984 with a third-grade side adding strength to the playing depth. And in 1987, an under-19 side was established which enabled the Club to tap into up-and-coming players and future first graders.
Six premierships were collected during this period with first grade premierships in 1986 and 88, Thirds won four premierships on the trot coming within a whisker of creating an Australian record for consecutive victories.
There was also a change to the Club’s playing strip, official emblem and image. It was decided to change from the traditional red and white hoops to an all-red jersey.
The change provided the impetus for the now renown “Redmen” tag.
