This Sunday promises to be a standout day at the Richmond Athletic Ground, with two of the club’s sides taking centre stage in what are set to be their biggest fixtures of the season.

Colts take centre stage in season finale
The Richmond Colts will round off their campaign in style, stepping onto the grandstand pitch for a special double-header on Sunday morning.

Gates open at 11:15am, with Richmond U17s kicking things off against Ruts at 11:30am, followed by the U18s taking on Twickenham at 12:40pm.

This day is about far more than just the final games of the season. For many of these players, it marks the culmination of years of commitment in Richmond colours. Six members of the Colts squad have played together since Under-6s, making this a defining moment in their rugby journey at Richmond.

Allowing the group to play on the 1XV pitch and experience the same environment as Champ Rugby players is a fitting tribute to their years of growth and hard work through the Minis and Youth age groups.

Head Coach Ollie Cross said:
“The U18s are finishing their journey of playing youth rugby. I can't think of a better way for the club to celebrate its loyal player group than by rewarding them with an opportunity to play on the 1XV pitch.”

There’s also plenty on the line on the pitch. The U17s face long-time rivals Ruts, a fixture that has been played annually for over a decade. Earlier this season, Richmond came out on top in a thrilling 54 - 33 encounter.

The U18s, meanwhile, meet familiar opposition in Twickenham. Having faced their postcode neighbours three times already this year, resulting in two losses and a draw. This is the perfect opportunity to finish the season on a high.

Colts player Lewis summed up what the occasion means:
“After being at this club for almost a decade, it has become a real home for me. To get a chance to play on the first XV pitch at the RAG will be a dream come true.”

Valkyries chasing silverware in semi-final clash
Later in the day, the Richmond Valkyries take to Pitch 2 in the semi-final of the Women’s Junior Cup, kicking off at 2:00pm against Old Halesonians Women.

The Valkyries come into the fixture in formidable form.
• 10 wins from 10 league games
• Promotion already secured
• 905 points scored (62 per game average)

Their dominance has extended into the cup, where they have scored 297 points and conceded just 5 across five matches.

Their opponents, Old Halesonians, compete in Women’s NC 2 Midlands (West) and currently sit fifth in their league, with seven wins from thirteen games. While they represent a different regional challenge, the Valkyries will be confident heading into the tie given their exceptional form this season.

With a Colts finale full of emotion and a Valkyries side pushing for silverware, Sunday at the RAG has all the ingredients for a brilliant day of rugby.

The Murray Judd Bar and canteen will be open throughout the day - and best of all, entry is completely FREE.