Richmond
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the 1st XV to its current success, improving the league position
each year of his tenure.
Hill said: “Although the boys are well looked after in terms of
coaches, medical and physio support, and the rest, they all have
day jobs. So the move up a level is a major step for them, but an
opportunity to test themselves in Championship rugby.
“But each and every one of them wants it, so I’ve challenged
them to give it everything for a period of ten months to see what
a squad of part-time rugby players can achieve in a full-time
professional league.
Peter Moore added: “We’re realistic about our chances and
we know it will be tough both mentally and physically, but we
genuinely have a great side which will give a good account of
itself, and in the true Richmond way, that’s all we ask.
“Always remembering that for the players, rugby has to be
enjoyed not endured.”
Richmond’s History
Formed in 1861 and a founder
member of both the RFU and the
FA, Richmond became one of the
first clubs of the professional era in
1996 but were obliged to call in the
administrators in 1999 following
the withdrawal of the main backer
and losses of £5 million. From
playing in the Heineken Cup the
year previously, a harsh penalty
was imposed for the financial
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collapse which meant the club was
removed from the RFU leagues
in 1999-2000 and readmitted the
following season only at Level 9 –
Herts and Middlesex 1.
However,
four
stalwart
members banded together and
rescued the club by injecting their
own money and guaranteeing
debt. On the field RFC won 83
consecutive games, and the many
bad mismatches proved the
absurdity of the punishment, but
also propelled the club rapidly up
the leagues. In 2002, administration
ended and a continuing period
of sensible financial control
and careful management has
meant that Richmond Rugby
is today on a firm footing, with
major development plans under
consideration.