James Toop

James has the distinction of being third only to Wayne Enstone and Dan Tristao in the number of National Singles titles won, 6 between 2003 and 2012. He began his Fives-playing career at St Olave’s School Orpington, playing Eton Fives, at which he was also to excel, winning the National Eton Fives Championship on several occasions.  Introduced to Rugby Fives in his late teens James quickly adapted to the code, using his volleying skills and spinning shots to win the British Universities Singles and Doubles Championships in 2000. Thereafter titles followed at regional and eventually national level. James is one of only two players to do the double of National titles in both games. He continues to play in tournaments of both kinds, inspiring and mentoring young players like Gwydion Wiseman. [November 2023]