Vastly experienced at the still relatively tender age of 27 for a prop, North is an outstanding scrummager on either side of the scrum and was an integral part of last season’s promotion-winning side despite breaking his wrist in only the second game of the campaign at Canterbury.

A vocal and commanding presence on the field, he can often be found lying on the massage table off it! We put the former Saracens Academy product in the spotlight:

Stef, how did the move to Elthamians come about?
I knew a few of the boys already having played with and against some of them, and after talking to Gav [Gavin Lach] and a few of the players, I just knew it would be a good fit for me. And I was right. It’s also a lot closer to home than where I was before!

And you’ve proved to be very popular with OEs supporters with your banter on the sidelines.
To be honest, I treat everyone the way I want to be treated and I can honestly say I have had nothing but kindness and respect from everyone at the club. I would like to think I play with passion and my heart on my sleeve and hopefully our supporters can see that.

Did last season’s thrilling promotion campaign exceed all your expectations, especially considering you broke your wrist in the second game?
I knew at the start of the season we had a good squad and could make a push for promotion, but you never know how things are going to pan out. It was tough being out for nine weeks especially after missing most of pre-season with a pulled groin. I feel I struggled with my fitness a bit last season, and thought I could have offered more around the park had I been fitter.

You’ve had plenty of experience playing in National One. What can Elthamians expect this season?
We can expect every game to be tough because there are no easy games in this league especially away from home. I think the main difference between National One and National Two is the physicality. Every game is physically demanding and if you are not on your game, you will be found out.

Apart from the Sale victory last season, what has been your most memorable rugby moment in your career so far?
Being part of the Richmond squad that won the National One title in 2015/16 season. Really good times.

Who are the best and worst Elthamian players to room with and why?
The best is Liffy [Aaron Liffchak]. I’ve known him for years, he’s a top bloke who doesn't mind my snoring - prop love! I would have to say the worst player to room with is me to be honest! Liffy has to put in ear plugs when we share a room together on some of the away trips.

And the toughest opponent you have played against in the front row?
The Blackheath prop Des Brett, who I think is retired now. I remember playing for Southend when they were in National One. I was 18 and we had Blackheath away and I came up opposite this old prop with a beard who wasn’t very big. I thought. ‘Happy days, I’m gonna do him! But from that first scrum to the last I had my head well and truly facing my behind!”

What’s been your most embarrassing moment on a rugby field so far?
Playing in an Academy game for Saracens against London Irish, we were awarded a penalty so I thought, ‘I will take a quick tap and go.’ So I chipped the ball up and with that I slipped over and the ball landed on my head and then went forward! I’m not sure whether my team-mates knew whether to laugh or cry!

You seem to be really enjoying your rugby at the moment. What are your personal aims for the season?
My main goal is to play as many games as possible which isn't easy because of the competition we have in the squad. But I also want to carry the ball more and to try and be a leader on the pitch.

STEFAN NORTH
FACT FILE
Age: 27
Previous Clubs: Saracens, Southend, Thurrock, Blackheath and Richmond
Representative honours: England Under-18s, South East U18s