Paul and his wife Julia joined outgoing President Mike Harrison and his wife Maggie for a presentation by chairman Peter Tom and executive director Peter Wheeler on the Welford Road pitch ahead of kick-off in Saturday’s Aviva Premiership match against Newcastle Falcons.
Dodge made his Tigers debut as a 17-year-old in 1975 and spent 16 years in the first-team squad. A centre who gained his player’s tie before his 18th birthday and completed 100 appearances before the age of 21, he helped Tigers to six cup finals and captained the inaugural winners of the Courage Clubs’ Championship in 1988.
His total of 437 appearances for the club is bettered by just four men in Leicester’s 133-year history.
Dodge also gained 32 England caps, captained the national team in 1985 and played two Tests for the British & Irish Lions in South Africa in 1980 after sharing in England’s Grand Slam that year.
Retiring as England’s most-capped centre, he maintained a link with Tigers in a coaching role and then in work with the next generation of players at the club’s Academy.
Peter Wheeler, a former team-mate at club and international level, said: “Paul was a unique player for the Tigers, England and the Lions, and has served this Club continuously since he first came through the Welford Road doors in 1974.
“He has already made an outstanding contribution to the Club, not just as a player, but also as a coach, guiding and developing hundreds of young players coming through our system.
“We’re delighted that we are able to welcome Paul and Julia into the President’s office.”
Mike Harrison, another former Tigers centre, served as President for a four-year period which included two Premiership title wins, an LV= Cup triumph and the memorable victory over South Africa at Welford Road.
“Mike has been exceptional in the role of President, helped considerably by his wife, Maggie,” added Wheeler.
“We thank them both for enhancing the reputation of our Club by their dedication and commitment to the task and the warmth, graciousness and friendliness in which they carried out their duties.”
