Roland "Ritz" Rizema: RIP

A Nomad forever...

It's with a heavy heart we announce the sad passing of Nomads stalwart, Ritz. He passed peacefully on Saturday 7th June with his family by his side following a long battle with leukaemia.

Ritz first represented Nomads in 1964 and eventually managed to play for every, except the firsts. Fair to say he wasn't the greatest but always gave it his all and was ever-reliable, if he said he'd be there you could put your house on it!

Ritz was always a steady 'straight' defender on the field and a reliable and willing worker, who also refereed for over 20 years. There is no doubt that Ritz was a legend in Nomad folklore for his administrative skills, his industry and his detailed impersonation of a world-class referee!

Whilst he was an officer of the club as captain of the 5th team in the late 70s, it was in his capacity as Club Secretary that he came into his own.

The same consistency and reliability that he displayed as a player, he brought to this role on the committee, eventually clocking up an incredible 40+ years in the role! He very quietly but effectively went about keeping the club on an even keel, never seeking gratitude or lime light. He was just one of those people who gave for the benefit of others.

Ritz was recognised for his services to football in the district in 2014 by the Cheshire FA with a Long Service Award

Ritz was voted Nomad of The Year in 1999 in recognition for all he did for the club. A well deserved thank you from all of the members,

In the late 80's he was a key part of the team that oversaw the acquisition of the The Garrison Ground on Eaton Road. Ritz also acted as Director of Boughton Hall Ltd for a number of years before eventually stepping down from the committee in 2012, although he remained as vice president to the end.

During our centenary celebrations it was written of Ritz: Perhaps the person most deserving of thanks is to our longstanding secretary Ritz

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Whilst his visits to club have been limited over the last couple of years due to ill-health he was always keen to hear the latest news about the club and occasionally spectate at Boughton Hall.

It's no exaggeration to say the club wouldn't be the same with the likes of Ritz and his generation and we are forever in their debt.

Ritz' funeral is on Thursday 26th June at 10am at Blacon Crematorium CH1 5BB.

Wake will be held at Chester Nomads / Boughton Hall CC, Boughton Hall Ave, Chester CH3 5EL from 11am.

A Nomad forever.

RIP Ritz 🧡