Shoulders: Rugby’s Hardest Man & Hilarious Criminal
Discover the story of Simon “Shoulders” Baker, the unwavering heart of Old Brockleians RFC for nearly four decades. This isn’t just about rugby; it’s a testament to dedication. From managing the bar to coaching the first XV, Baker embodies grassroots rugby. news Directory 3 highlights Baker’s remarkable journey, from joining the club in 1982 to captaining the team and becoming a vital leader off the field.Learn how Baker’s varied roles and dedication funded a new industrial lawnmower for the club. Explore the impact and the future of this rugby stalwart.Discover what’s next for “Shoulders”.
Simon Baker: The Heart of Grassroots Rugby at Old Brockleians
Updated June 25, 2025
Nestled in South-east London, where the South Circular, A20, and A2 converge, lies Old Brockleians RFC. This club, a testament to grassroots rugby, thrives next to Mottingham’s Middle Park estate. At its heart is Simon “Shoulders” Baker, a man synonymous with the club for nearly 40 years.
Baker’s roles are manifold. He manages the bar, maintains the grounds, coaches the first XV, and even fills in on the field when needed.His dedication embodies the spirit of grassroots rugby, making him a legend in his own right.
Rugby World caught up with Baker as he prepared the clubhouse for the club’s 100th-anniversary celebration.He recounted how he first joined Old Brockleians in 1982 at age 11. he played for his school on Saturday mornings and then for the club’s lower teams in the afternoon. “I’ve never left,” Baker said.
Baker progressed through the ranks, captaining the first XV in the 2000s before taking on more administrative roles. He became the bar manager,leveraging his experience as a publican in nearby Lewisham and Ladywell.
“I’ve been the bar manager here since the early 2000s because I was a publican as my day job,” Baker said. “I ran the bar, ordered the stock, brokered deals with breweries for the beer, stuff like that.”
He also took on the role of groundsman after discovering the club was paying £14,000 annually for grass cutting.Baker secured a deal with Old Colfeians, a private school, to rent the ground, which funded a new industrial lawnmower.
What’s next
Baker continues to be a driving force at Old Brockleians, ensuring the club remains a vibrant hub for grassroots rugby in South-East London.