The start of the modern era was due to several former pupils of Hayward School, who formed a team to play on Saturdays calling themselves the 'Old Haywardians'.

Hayward School colours were used as the basis of the maroon and white hooped shirts, and the start of a second team brought the need for the more normal club type structure, with fund raising, and social activities.

Saturday 3 September 1988 saw the first competitive game played at the new purpose-built facilities versus Greater Manchester Fire Service.

The new club house was officially opened on Sunday 4 September 1988, with a second game versus a president's invitational XV.

Today, Bolton RUFC operate 3 senior men's teams, a large junior/mini section and support a number of local initiatives.