Physio Richie Norman completed 25 years loyal service to Pitching In Southern Football League Premier Division Central club Nuneaton Borough last year but unfortunately, the Covid pandemic prevented this milestone from being honoured.
Norman enjoyed a fine playing career as a left-back.
He first came to prominence as captain of the Newcastle district of Newburn’s Schools team, which reached the English Schools’ Shield semi-final in 1950/51.
He then went on to play for Northumberland Boys and the North Eastern sides of Newburn, Ferryhill and Horden Colliery.
As a youngster, he was a Newcastle United supporter at a time when they were FA Cup winners in 1951, 1952 and 1955. His heroes at the time included Joe Harvey, George Robledo and Jackie Milburn.
Richie signed for Leicester in November 1958 and went on to make 365 appearances for the club.
He made his debut in January 1960 against - of all teams - his beloved Newcastle at St James’ Park!
He was an ever-present in the famous ‘Ice Kings’ team which came close to winning a league and FA Cup double in 1963, played in two FA Cup Finals, starred in Europe, and was also a League Cup winner in 1964 and a finalist in 1965.
In 1969, Richie became player-manager of Southern League Burton Albion and then coached at Derby County and Northampton Town and was also physio at Northants County Cricket Club.
He later became physio at Kettering Town with Graham Carr before joining Nuneaton.
The club have arranged a Boro Legends match at Liberty Way on Sunday, 21st July (2.30pm) with all proceeds deservedly going to Richie.
Admission is £5 for adults and £2 for under-16s.
There will also be an auction and more great prizes on offer in raffle and blackout draws with all money raised going to Richie.
Most clubs are looking for volunteers. Find out more on the button below:
www.PitchingInVolunteers.co.ukAll the news and results in one place.
REGISTER