Drybrook Rugby Club

It is with great sadness that we report the death of former Chairman Jeff Tate who sadly passed away on 6th January after a short illness. Our heart felt sympathy goes out to Wendy and the family on their loss.

Jeff was a truly great club man for Drybrook who he joined in the 1972/73 season. Playing mainly at centre, Jeff played in 596 games for Drybrook and even switched to prop in his fifties to ensure the 3rds could keep going.

It is perhaps off the pitch that Jeff made his greatest contribution as he was club secretary from 1976 – 1980 before taking over as the club Chairman for the next 17 seasons.

He stood down from that office in 1997 but his legacy remains as he was the driving force in a number of key club projects such as purchasing additional land to build the car park and overseeing the levelling of the 1st XV pitch.

He was also a key player in numerous other projects such as the building of the new changing room block and various improvements to the club house where he often using his practical skills to save the club a great deal of money.

Jeff was a Life Member of the club as well as a trustee and in recent years he remained on the committee and carried out lots of unseen work such as planning and licensing applications and carrying out the health and safety audits.

Ten years ago he took over as programme editor where he brought a unique style and sense of humour that has been thoroughly enjoyed by those who have attended the games.

Drybrook Rugby Club has lost a great friend and supporter who will be sorely missed.