Richmond has today announced the five players from its Men’s Championship squad who have confirmed their retirements following the conclusion of the 2021/22 campaign.

First-team captain Cameron Mitchell, centre Ronnie Mclean, flankers Jack Allcock and Jake Parker, and prop Kurt Schonert have all called time on their highly decorated rugby careers.

The club would like to thank all five players for their incredible contribution and loyalty, and wish them all the very best for their successful careers away from rugby.

CAMERON MITCHELL:

First XV Caps: 132
Player Sponsor: Richard Carswell
Position: Outside Centre
Former Clubs: Darlington Mowden Park
Honours: England Counties

Cam said: “It feels very strange to think I’m hanging up my boots. Both rugby and Richmond have been such a massive part of my life and I feel very lucky to have played for and represented such a special club. The last seven years have been incredible and I’ve made memories that will stay with me forever; from getting promoted to the Championship, to touring all over the world. I’ve made friends for life through the club and although my time as a player has come to an end, I will continue to be a part of Richmond for the rest of my life. I’m hugely grateful to everyone that has made my time playing for the club so special, there are too many to name but I’m truly thankful.”

RONNIE MCLEAN:

First XV Caps: 113
Player Sponsor: Dennis Yapp
Position: Inside Centre
Former Clubs: Ealing Trailfinders, Birmingham & Solihull, Coventry
Honours: USA Eagles (1 cap)

Ronnie said: “It doesn’t feel real to be retiring. I’m normally getting ready for a few weeks off and then heading into preseason, but that’s not the case this time round. It’s been a long and enjoyable career. I’ve been blessed with not many injuries, I’ve played a lot of rugby and made friends for life at some amazing clubs. Thank you to everyone who has made my time along the way so incredibly rewarding. To my Richmond teammates, coaches, staff and supporters, you have been a huge inspiration to me and I look forward to catching up with you at the RAG next season.”

JACK ALLCOCK:

First XV Caps: 81
Player Sponsor: Paul O’Donnell
Position: Flanker
Former Clubs: Darlington Mowden Park, Northampton Saints
Honours: England Counties

Jack said: “Playing for Richmond has been a blast. I’ve loved my time representing this club, making fantastic memories on and off the pitch and playing alongside so many great players. Thank you to my teammates, coaches and everyone at Richmond. I look forward to following the club next season from the sidelines.”

JAKE PARKER:

First XV Caps: 74
Player Sponsor: Stewart & Liz Barlow
Position: Flanker
Former Clubs: Cornish Pirates, Loughborough University
Honours: England U16, U18

Jake said: “I have loved every minute at Richmond. I feel very lucky to have played for such a great club, making mates for life and meeting so many brilliant people. There is no better feeling than winning at the RAG with your mates and the supporters cheering you on. Thank you to everyone for making this chapter of my rugby career so special.”

KURT SCHONERT:

First XV Caps: 22
Player Sponsor: Peter Moore
Position: Prop
Former Clubs: London Scottish, Durban Sharks

Kurt said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time playing at Richmond. I’ve made great friends and have so many fantastic memories. I would like to thank Richmond for being so supportive towards my family and throughout my three seasons at the club. Thank you to my teammates, coaches and supporters for making my time at the Athletic Ground so enjoyable.”