In an exciting move, Northampton Saints Foundation’s ambassador, James Grayson, is set to bid farewell to Northampton Saints as he embarks on a new chapter of his career in Japan.
While Northampton Saints supporters will miss him on the field, James has not severed ties with Northampton Saints Foundation, instead, he will continue to support from afar, visiting when he returns to the UK, and hopes to use his influence to establish connections with local schools in Japan, taking its mission and impact global.
Catherine Deans, Managing Director at Northampton Saints Foundation, shared her thoughts on Grayson's departure and his continued involvement:
"James has been an exceptional ambassador for the Foundation, and we are incredibly proud of his accomplishments on and off the field. His decision to take this exciting opportunity in Japan, opens exciting opportunities for him and the Foundation. We thank James for his incredible support, he is the perfect role model for young people and will miss seeing him at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens."
James has been a key part of the Foundation's programmes and community initiatives. He actively participated in charity golf days, helped raise awareness during Foundation Day, attended the Foundation’s annual awards, represented the Foundation at partner and sponsor events and shares our impact across his social media, making him a much-loved figure at the Foundation.
Following a visit to the Foundation as the news was announced, James reflected on the impact being an ambassador has had on him saying “It’s given me a broader outlook on the education system, how it’s not straight forward for some people, and the ramifications and impact that can have on kids if they do not get back into mainstream education, or in an apprenticeship. It can have some really negative impact on their lives, so it has broadened my horizon and made me one, realise how lucky I am, but also the work the Foundation does to help these people, is amazing as well, it’s given me a sense of achievement”.
Northampton Saints Foundation is truly grateful for James’ contributions and look forward to witnessing the positive influence he will undoubtedly continue to have whilst embarking on his new, exiting chapter in Japan.
