Firstly, we must start this with a massive Thank You to Reilly Franklin Talbot, who has stepped down as 1st XV Captain. Reilly has been a great leader for the Team over the last four seasons, which included the Club’s first promotion for 12 years and a Cup run to the semi-finals in the Papa John Cup.
The Senior squad are pleased that Tom Allen has agreed to take over as Captain, and Reilly will continue as Vice Captain. Sam Foreman, having retired from playing, will take on the role of 1st XV Manager.
Below are a few words from Tom
“It’s a real honour to be named captain of this great club; a place that’s given me so much both on and off the pitch over the years.
My rugby journey started at Park Lane as a U10, running around with Woody, Finn, Granty, Westo, and Olly Guy, to name just a few. That period was as fun as it was chaotic, with our coaches probably questioning their life choices most weekends.
Playing for ORs opened the door for me to join Reigate Grammar School in Year 9. I stayed through to the end of the fifth form, where I was lucky enough to be part of the team that won the NatWest Plate, playing alongside the now-legendary ‘golden’ year—a group that’s gone on to rack up a serious number of 1st XV appearances in recent seasons.
From there, I moved to Epsom College for sixth form, where I had the privilege of captaining the side in my final year. We had a fantastic run and made it all the way to a national final—a true highlight in my school rugby career.
In 2014, I was given the opportunity to join the Harlequins DPP and later progressed to the Elite Player Development Group (EPDG) through to U18 level.
University life took me to Nottingham, where I played for the 1st XV from 2019 to 2023. During that time, we went an incredible 51 weeks unbeaten, helping us climb to the top tier of university rugby. While there, I also made my debut for the ORs 1st XV—brought off the bench, in Doug’s words, for “being able to catch.” Not exactly the most flattering compliment, but I’ll take it.
Since graduating, I’ve been working in London in the accounts department of an engineering firm (and no, for the record, Richie is not my boss). I’ve also had the pleasure of playing two seasons for the 1st XV under Riley’s excellent captaincy.
I’m truly excited to lead the boys into the new season. I can’t wait to get going, and I look forward to seeing you all down at the club in September!”
