It is fitting that we play Blackheath for a fixture steeped in so much history. We welcome all the players, staff, supporters and committee members from Blackheath for what will be a special day.

Richmond will receive the National League 1 trophy after the game on the pitch. This is a fantastic achievement and we are very proud of everyone from within the playing and coaching staff who have helped realise this. It’s been a true team effort. Our strength has been the connection and unity of the group which has grown stronger and stronger since we assembled for pre season training way back
In the first week in July.

You can spend a very long time without ‘winning’ anything in sport and everybody involved in this should reflect on this season fondly and with pride. The commitment given should not be underestimated. There have been many set backs and sacrifices along the way to realise our goal and I want to thank everyone for their significant efforts in making this happen.

We look forward to the challenges of Championship rugby. It will be a challenge but one which we will relish. We will continue to work hard for each other, and do it in the Richmond Way ensuring we maintain the integrity and values of this wonderful club.

I would like to thank the supporters who have cheered us on both home and away, and hope you have enjoyed the journey. We have tried to play an entertaining brand of rugby which hopefully has made you proud of along the way.

Our women have had an equally fantastic season. Having won their championship semi final play off, they now face Old Albanians with the privilege of a final at Twickenham on Sunday 18th May 1700 kick off. We hope to see many of you there to cheer the women on to victory.

In true Richmond style the men have a 45 person strong touring party heading to Japan in May. Touring is part and parcel of Richmond rugby. There are few clubs at any level who would attempt such an adventure, and we very much look forward to a fantastic experience in the coming weeks.

I hope today is a fantastic celebration of a brilliant season and we look forward to welcoming you all back to the RAG next season for championship rugby!

Enjoy the game,
Rob