Ramaz Rukhadze Fulfills Father's Dream in Elior Champ Rugby
Every time Ramaz Rukhadze steps onto the rugby pitch for Chinnor, he makes a subtle gesture with his hand, tracing the Georgian characters for Davit—his father's name. This poignant ritual symbolizes a promise made a decade ago, now being honored through his participation in Elior Champ Rugby. The Georgian prop's journey from disappointment to triumph is a testament to paternal support and personal resilience.
A Promise Forged in Adversity
Rukhadze's path began in Bristol, where he joined his father, who was working there. He approached Bristol, then in the Champ, seeking an opportunity, only to be told he was too young and unprepared. "It was upsetting for me, but my dad was with me and he was my biggest supporter," Rukhadze recalled. His father encouraged him, predicting, "One day you will play in the Champ, and you will enjoy it even more because someone said you are not good enough and you are going to prove that you can do it." This statement became a driving force, especially after his father's passing, motivating Rukhadze to fulfill that ambition as the ultimate tribute.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Purpose
Rukhadze came to rugby relatively late in his teens, initially preferring judo. A call-up to Georgia U19s revealed his talent, even as he studied business economics at university. Despite family pressure for an office job, he followed his father to Bristol, focusing on rugby. After being passed over by Bristol Bears, he played for Cardiff RFC in the Welsh Prem, facing limited game time. Moves to Cambridge and a return home to Georgia followed, where he trained with the national team and won a domestic title with Aia, though Covid-19 dashed hopes of an international cap.
Determined to return to England, Rukhadze said, "I felt I had unfinished business. I promised my dad that I would play in the Champ." This led to four years at Plymouth Albion, where he was regularly hailed as the best prop in National One, while also working as a nightclub bouncer—a job he left upon joining Chinnor last season.
Thriving Under New Leadership
At Chinnor, under coach Nick Easter, Rukhadze has flourished. He recalls the pivotal phone call: "When my agent told me that Nick Easter wanted to talk to me, I was so excited. He's so good and knows exactly what to say." Without hesitation, Rukhadze agreed to join, prioritizing the opportunity over contract details. Easter's influence has been profound, with Rukhadze noting, "I've loved being around him and learned so much from him." The coach's insistence on avoiding bouncer work before matches underscores the professional environment.
Season Highlights and Future Ambitions
Chinnor has emerged as a surprise contender in Elior Champ Rugby this season, currently fifth with notable victories, including being the first team to beat Worcester Warriors at Sixways. Rukhadze cites this as a season highlight, describing the emotional climax: "When I saw the ref blowing the whistle at the end of the game, I thought 'oh my god, what is going on?'" These wins have fueled the team's motivation, with Rukhadze emphasizing, "Our target now is to be in the top six and play a play-off. I look at the squad and think we have the players and coaching staff to do that."
In a recent 26-19 win over Nottingham, Rukhadze scored a crucial try, again honoring his father with his hand gesture. Each match is a step toward keeping his promise, blending personal legacy with professional achievement in the world of rugby.
