Page 11 - RFU Annual Report 2017

9
President’s Foreword

John Spencer
President

I would like to thank the clubs and But we are one team, with one I would like to remember all those
RFU Council for bestowing on objective, one jersey, and my hope for members of the rugby family that we
me the extraordinary honour of the coming season is for loyalty, unity have recently lost, those who gave
serving as RFU President, and my and respect, the latter, of course, one so much fun to so many and left a
predecessor, Peter Baines, for his of our fundamental values. lasting legacy, among them: Dickie
untiring work over the past season. Jeeps, Brian Williams, John Douglas,
During his year of presidency, The theme I have chosen for my David Hurst, John Jeavons-Fellows
Peter covered almost 100 events Presidential year is player welfare, and Don Rutherford. They and so
nationwide and was a great our Injured Players Foundation’s many others lived the values of
ambassador and inspiration for all. research to minimise serious injuries rugby.
and their support of the few players
I joined the Council as Yorkshire’s who suffer them and their families, We are fortunate to retain those
representative and have had the enabling them to live meaningful and values, which always draw people to
privilege of serving on a variety of fulfilling lives. I also commend the our sport, and to operate in the way
committees and boards, including RFU’s Try for Change programme, that we do, using every penny made
that of the British & Irish Lions. which is working to improve the lives by the Union to reinvest in the game
Having returned from managing of the most disadvantaged through at every level.
their tour I would like to congratulate rugby.
the squad on their achievements and, It is, indeed, an honour to serve as
especially, the 16 England Lions. I look forward to further development President at a marvellous time for
of our England teams, both men’s rugby in England.
In rugby, we all have our club to and women’s, to our new Strategic
which we have incredible loyalty, Plan, and to players at every level
mine is Wharfedale. continuing to enjoy rugby, regardless
of size or ability. And I know that we
will all have fun, which is a major part
of our great game.

WE ARE ONE TEAM,

WITH ONE OBJECTIVE,

ONE JERSEY, AND MY

HOPE FOR THE COMING

SEASON IS FOR LOYALTY,

UNITY AND RESPECT

Annual Report 2017