Richmond Rugby Club President James Foster is no stranger to the field, but his recent appearance for the Normans demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the club and its teams. Foster, who usually plays loosehead prop for the Heavies, joined the Normans when they were short on players—a decision that perfectly encapsulates his ethos of supporting every corner of the club.

“It was a great honour to play for the Normans,” Foster shared. “As President, I believe I should be there for all the teams in the club and this was a great way to meet them and see them play.”

The Normans, led by their captain Zac Yardley, played with enthusiasm and determination. Foster’s presence added both experience and passion. Nick Darke, Normans’ head coach, reflected on the day: “We were short of players, so we contacted the Heavies, who said James was available. He played very well, the full 80 minutes, and got stuck in, making some good tackles. It was a really good day.”

Foster’s rugby journey is a rich one. Joining Richmond in 1990, he has played over 150 games for the first team, including two seasons at the start of the professional era, and roughly 250 games for the Heavies. This season alone, he has managed four appearances for the Heavies, along with a Vets 10-a-side tournament in Dubai, despite the demands of his Presidential duties.

“The role of President is really as a figurehead of the club,” Foster explained. “Traditionally, it’s about representing the club at men’s first team games, attending pre-game lunches, entertaining the opposition committee, writing program notes, and giving speeches. But I’m trying to broaden it by attending as many women’s games as possible, helping out at minis and youth festivals, and highlighting walking rugby. Ultimately, my main responsibility is to ensure all members of the club enjoy their experience at Richmond.”

One of the highlights of the Normans’ game was Foster’s reunion with Eddy Cuthbert. “It was especially nice to play with Eddy, whose father, Andy Cuthbert, I used to play with in the first team, and whose mother, Michelle Cuthbert, was our physio then as she still is now,” Foster said.

At 57, Foster’s dedication to rugby remains undiminished. “I was only Man of the Match because I am old,” he joked. “The usual front row I play with in the Heavies consists of Jeremy Tozer, 56, Ian Grundy, 58, and myself. On Saturday, the other two front-rowers were both around 19. It’s no wonder they made me look good!”

Foster’s leadership, both on and off the field, exemplifies the spirit of Richmond Rugby Club—a club that thrives on passion, inclusivity, and a shared love for the game. Whether donning the jersey for the Heavies or the Normans, he sets an example through his involvement across the club.