A Glorious Day of Sport, Camaraderie and Honour at Richmond
On Sunday 20th September, the City Solicitors’ Livery Company proudly fielded not one, not two, but three teams at the Festival of Sports in Richmond: Football, Rugby Sevens and Tag Rugby.
The weather, perhaps sensing the importance of the occasion, decided to cooperate magnificently. Bathed in glorious sunshine, we enjoyed a prime position within the grounds, our tent serving as both headquarters and social hub throughout the day.
The Rugby Sevens team faced a particularly stern challenge. Many of the players had only just met each other, which is not usually the preparation recommended by leading rugby coaches. Nonetheless, they bravely threw themselves into battle, competed with enormous pride, and most importantly safeguarded the honour of the Company with remarkable determination.
Our Tag Rugby team enjoyed great success, reaching the Quarter-Final of the Plate Competition, before eventually losing to Barclays Legal. This was helped in no small part by the sight of the Master Simon Davis and Past Master Ed Parker – raising the average age by about 30 years-battling shoulder-to-shoulder on the pitch. It was a fine demonstration that Livery service extends well beyond the dinner table and into the sporting arena.
The Football team also reached the Plate Competition, after an excellent run through the knockout stages, displaying skill, teamwork and resilience. Sadly, in keeping with one of the great English sporting traditions, the journey ended in an unsuccessful penalty shootout against Field Fisher. Some habits, it seems, are impossible to escape.
Results, however, tell only part of the story. The real victory was the opportunity to spend a wonderful day with members of the Company, meet many young solicitors of the future and enjoy the tremendous spirit, enthusiasm and camaraderie that characterised the entire event.
A huge thank you to everyone who played, supported, organised, cheered, spectated or simply joined us for a snack and a conversation. You represented the Company magnificently.
See you next year!
