Eric Stephens

Early life and education Eric Stephens was born in August 1939 in a 'nursing home on Clarence Street', Gloucester. He was the only son of four children born to his parents, Eric James 'Jim' Stephens and Ivy Ethel Stephens. He had a primary education at the Calton Road Primary school and a secondary education at the Crypt Grammar School.

Pre–1966 Stephens's rugby career started at his high-school, the Crypt School, and he also played for the Old Cryptians team. He went to London from 1962–63 and temporarily played for the Saracens Club. In 1970 Stephens did not play in September but managed to play 46 games as outside half and then left wing with Ron Etheridge at full back. When Etheridge was injured, Stephens reverted to fullback. He made his county debut in the final at full back against Surrey at Kingsholm. Stephens scored 363 points that season. at Coundon Road. He started the club season on the left wing but again reverted to full back when Ron Etheridge was injured and stayed there for the remainder of the season. playing against Moseley, Stephens missed a conversion in the first half but in the second half scored a penalty kick. Stephens played as fullback

In 1972–73 Peter Butler became first choice for full back for club and county.