Hughenden, Glasgow facts for kids

The Hughenden playing fields, where many sports are played.

Hughenden is a well-known sports ground located in the Hyndland area of Glasgow, Scotland. Since 1924, it has been the home of the Hillhead Sports Club. This club is a private place where people can play different sports like cricket, rugby union, and tennis. Hughenden is most famous for rugby. It is the home field for the Hillhead Jordanhill RFC rugby team. The professional Glasgow Rugby team also played their home games here from 1996 to 2005, and again from 2006 to 2007. The main rugby field at Hughenden can hold up to 6,000 people.

Hughenden's Sporting Story

How the Club Started

The Hillhead Sports Club began in 1902. It was created for students who used to go to Hillhead High School. The club offered many sports, including football, cricket, hockey, and athletics. A rugby team, called Hillhead High School Former Pupils RFC, started in 1904. This team later became known as Hillhead RFC.

Finding a Home at Hughenden

At first, the club used the Scotstoun Showgrounds for their games. After the First World War, they wanted a permanent home. In 1922, they bought land at Hughenden. The club's new home officially opened on May 24, 1924. The main building, called the pavilion, was designed by W. Hunter McNab.

Hughenden's Sports and Growth

Since it opened, Hughenden has hosted many different sports. These include hockey, cricket, and tennis. However, it is most famous for rugby. The first big sports event held at the club was the West of Scotland Tennis Championship in 1925.

The Rugby Grandstand

The rugby team became very popular. Because of this, a large seating area called a grandstand was built next to the pitch in 1934. It was designed by local engineers FA MacDonald. This grandstand was special because it was made of strong concrete with a roof that stuck out without needing extra support. This design was quite unusual for its time. It was first used in September 1934 for a rugby match between Hillhead and Glasgow Academicals. The floodlights at the ground were also improved in 1977.