The latest edition of Field Magazine features an engaging article on Rugby School and Thomas Arnold’s impact on modern sports. The piece delves into Pierre de Coubertin's journey to becoming the father of the Modern Olympic Games. Enjoy reading a summary of Rugby School's influence on the revival of the Olympic Games below, and grab yourself a copy of the latest Field Magazine to read the full article!

Rugby School and the Modern Olympic Games 

In the 19th century, under the headmastership of Thomas Arnold (1828-1842), Rugby School became a model for educational reform, particularly in the integration of sports into the curriculum.

Thomas Arnold played a crucial role in shaping the character and moral values of his students through a balanced approach to education that combined intellectual pursuits with physical activities. Arnold believed that sports were essential for developing discipline, teamwork, and moral integrity. This philosophy promoted the idea that physical exercise was not just beneficial for the body but also for the spirit and character.

Pierre de Coubertin, a French educator and historian, visited Rugby School in the 1880s. He was deeply impressed by Arnold's educational methods and the school's emphasis on physical education. De Coubertin admired Arnold's vision of using sports to build character and instill values such as fair play, perseverance, and respect for others. He saw these principles as vital for personal development and societal progress.

De Coubertin's visits to Rugby School and his exposure to Arnold's ideas were instrumental in shaping his own views on the importance of sports. He was also inspired by the ancient Greek ideal of a well-rounded individual who excels in both mind and body. Combining these influences, de Coubertin became convinced that organized sports could play a significant role in education and international peace.

This conviction led de Coubertin to propose the revival of the Olympic Games, an ancient Greek tradition that celebrated athletic excellence and promoted unity among competing city-states. In 1894, he founded the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and two years later, the first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens, Greece.

Thomas Arnold's educational reforms at Rugby School, emphasizing the importance of sports in developing character and mental strength, had a profound impact on de Coubertin. This influence is evident in the values and ideals that underpin the modern Olympic movement, which seeks to promote physical fitness, cultural exchange, and international goodwill throug