The Richmond Heavies love touring—it's what unites the team and the club. This past weekend, they hosted Italian vets side Sorci Verdi from Florence for their first-ever tour.

After a Friday night welcome from some of the Super Heavies, Sorci Verdi arrived at the RAG. With their squad needing reinforcements, the Heavies lent them players before kicking off a fast-paced game. Early tries from Joe Clapson, Flynn, and Felix put Richmond ahead, but Sorci Verdi responded with two well-earned scores. Uncontested scrums saw back-row Heavies stepping up in the front row, and Cowboy David Te Brake added another try before halftime (4-2).

In the second half, despite the previous night’s festivities, Sorci Verdi defended well, but the Heavies added three more scores, including Flynn’s solo effort, Felix’s hat trick, and Duffus’ debut try. The game ended 39-12.

Post-match, both teams celebrated at the club, followed by a tour of Richmond's finest pubs. Their captain Marco said “I really don’t know how to thank you Heavies. We have found a wonderful club, filled with amazing people", to which Heavies Skipper Martyn Boden replied, “Just give us pizza and beers in Florence when we visit in May!”

The weekend wrapped up with a trip to Twickenham for the Six Nations. Sorci Verdi, dressed as Santas, didn’t see an Italian win but left with unforgettable memories. Florence in May awaits!

Matt Brown
Heavies HoSEr