We’d like to invite all our readers to share their memories of Port Vale legend John Rudge which will be shared with John and the Rudge family.
We’d welcome your memories of an amazing statue unveiling day at Vale Park as well as your memories, recollections and thank you to the club’s greatest manager.
How to share your memories of Rudgie
How to share your memories of Rudgie- If you’re a member of our popular forum you can post your thoughts in this dedicated thread
- If you’re not a member of the forum just scroll to the bottom of this post and add a comment.
We’ve been in touch with the Rudge family and we will collecting all your thoughts and passing them on so they can read them.
Who is John Rudge
Who is John RudgeSurely no introduction is needed for Vale fans, but for anyone from elsewhere, John Rudge is a legendary figure at Vale Park. Rudge managed the club for sixteen years providing some of the most entertaining footballing sides seen at the club as well as millions in transfer revenue, three promotions, three trips to Wembley stadium and the Autoglass Trophy. In total, he managed the club for 843 games and on his departure no less a figure than Sir Alex Ferguson said Vale fans should “get on their knees and thank the Lord for John Rudge.” After crossing the Potteries divide for a spell as Director of Football at Stoke City, Rudge has returned to Vale Park where he is currently the club president.
Tell us about the statue
Tell us about the statueSpearheaded by the Port Vale Supporters Club, a total of £100,000 was raised for the bronze statue. It is only the second statue at the stadium in addition to that of club record appearance holder Roy Sproson whose statue is opposite the club entrance. Rudge’s statue was unveiled on Monday and is in front of the Hamil Road stand in the middle of what is currently the fanzone.
Where can I find out more about John Rudge?
Where can I find out more about John Rudge?This website has produced a special area to celebrate who we consider to be the club’s greatest manager. It contains tributes, quotes, a quiz, video, a gallery and other related features about Rudge’s time at the Vale.
A truly great occasion and a landmark in our recent history.
Well done to all the brilliant supporters that have worked so hard to get this done.
So deserved for the legend that is Sir John Rudge.
My memories of John Rudge are the pride in the many players he signed, the fabulous football we played, many recognised now as Legends. I feel privileged to have witnessed the Rudge Years. Memories of the man go back to club open days when my two young daughters were more than happy to sit on John’s knee in his office! A gentleman, unparralled coaching and management. Proud to be at the statue unveiling. ‘Sir’ John Rudge – legend
My memories of John go back to when I lived in Carlisle and he was a striker.Years later living in London I started following the Vale in 1987 and became a season ticket holder and have supported the vale ever since., John brought in so many great players.Wembley appearances . They wanted to move him up stairs. John did not want that so unfortunately we lost our greatest Manager.He was sadly missed . You was great and thanks for so many great memories