Woodford
Woodford
RUGBY CLUB
It has been quite a turnaround for Woodford Rugby Club this season; after narrowly avoiding
relegation last season they are competing at the top of the table this time around. Rugby Club
Magazine recently caught up with their Chairman Richard Porter to find out more.
He told us, “I’ve been a lifelong member at Woodford
since joining as a mini player when I was around eight years
old. I moved up through the youth system before moving
into the senior team back in 1988 when I was seventeen. I still
occasionally play for our third team although at 47 I think
retirement looms and being club Chairman and Head coach
for my sons U15’s team tends to fill my weekends nicely.”
“I became Club Chairman in the 2016/17 season so am now
into my third year. The first year was one of learning the ropes.
This was followed by last season lining up plans to make
change which we, the committee felt would bring benefit to
the membership and local community.
“This season has seen us implement a number of changes
which are proving very successful. Most challenging is finding
volunteers. We have many, certainly in the mini and youth
coaching set up but we can always welcome more, especially
in the more admin type of roles. Most rewarding is seeing the
changes we make bearing fruit.
“The atmosphere at the club is excellent this season. In only
April 2018 we won our last league game to avoid relegation.
This season we have done really well in the league which is
a huge turnaround and has completely lifted the club and
generated a positive vibe.
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10/07/2017 11:45:29
“I played for the club from the U6s up until the age of 39 when I had to face the reality of my injuries and listen to medical
advice. I played 2nd row and apart from time out for Uni played all the years either side. My main position was 2nd row and my
dad Martin who was a very good 2nd row forward back in the day also played. Martin also coached my U11s team and still is an
avid supporter.
I can’t speak highly enough about the club and in particular Richard Porter’s influence. Richard seems to be the gel that binds
the club together and is infectiously a real club stalwart who continually gives freely of himself.
My company, Foskett Marr Gadsby & Head LLP, have been principal sponsors of the club for the past two seasons and are
delighted to be part of the great success the teams are enjoying.”
Robin Cearns
www.rugbyclubmag.com
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