It is with great sadness that we share the news that Andy passed away on Saturday, 7th June. As a former player, coach, supporter, sponsor and friend of the club, Andy faced his battle with cancer with fierce determination and an unwavering zest for life.
After moving from Worcestershire to Suffolk Andy joined our club and played for several seasons in the early 1990s. After his playing days ended, his passion for the game and Woodbridge RUFC only grew. He dedicated himself to coaching, guiding his son Tom’s age group all the way from Minis to Colts. He was dedicated, generous with his time and committed to instilling his love for the game and broader rugby values in all the boys, never more so than on the many Tours he ensured were a fixture each year for that squad. Seeing Tom make his first-team debut in the last season a particular moment of joy and pride for both Helen and Andy.
Andy supported the club in so many meaningful ways. I fondly remember him bringing his JCB high lift from the farm to help repair the floodlights—just one of many examples of his practical, hands-on help. He was also a regular at club lunches with friends and family and especially keen to ensure that he could sponsor our annual Christmas Lunch, through Fennridge the storage business he built with Helen.
More recently, Andy served as our International Ticket Secretary and took on the role with such diligence and fairness. Whether it was his quick feet in days gone by or his quick wit that he never lost, his deep knowledge and love of the game, Andy brought warmth and heart to everything he did on and off the pitch. He will be deeply missed by us all.
On behalf of everyone at Woodbridge Rugby Club,
TJ – Chairman
A service of remembrance will be held for Andy at St Mary’s in Woodbridge at 15:00 on Friday, 4th July.
Any Club members past and present who can attend the service, please consider wearing their Woodbridge RUFC tie, Andy would have been delighted.
The family have requested no flowers but there will be a donation point at the service for St Elizabeth’s Hospice.
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