Denstone's rugby is steeped in history with the 1st XV honours boards aligning the North wing corridor of the main school dating back to 1899.

There are a number of former internationals first dating all the way back to 1909, H. L. Crutwell (England), Noel Forbes Humphreys (British Lions, 1910 South Africa, 1st Official Lions Tour), Mark Sugden (28 Caps for Ireland 1924-31), Thomas Arthur Kemp (England 5 caps, Captain, 1940-48, R.F.U. President 1971-72, Cambridge University Blue 1936), W. P. C. Phil Davies (England 1954-57, British Lions 1955 South Africa, Alastair Hignell CBE (England, 14 caps 1975-79, Cambridge University Blue 1974-77).

There has only been one unbeaten season in the history of the school, 1966, and the members of that squad held a 40 year re-union in honour of the sides achievements and fellow players at the College in 2006.

Each year the Old Denstonian 1st XV players return to play the Colleges 1st XV on the last Wednesday of the Michaelmas Term.

The amateur values and traditions are still upheld by the new generation of Denstonian rugby players as the game continues to move forward in the professional era.