Archive
A tribute to David Matthews,
Retiring 2014-
Extract from County 2014-
Secretary’s Opening Remarks
As always in these opening remarks my first job is to thank our President, David Matthews. David has done a great job this season and has represented the office of President and the County extremely well. An International referee, David brings an air of authoritative calm with him.
The office of President is not an easy ride of club dinners and hospitality, it involves a lot of time consuming hard work and those privileged to hold the post need to have dedication. This is what David has shown he has heaps of. He has attended as many finals days as he has been able from Minis and Schools all the way through to seniors, always making time to speak to participants and supporters alike. He has watched rugby at all levels, at clubs all around the County and at board Meetings enthuses about the welcome he has received at all of them. This season he has been the eyes and ears of the Management Team as he has been closest to grassroots rugby and has been able to feedback questions and concerns about the direction of rugby.
His determination and bravery through his illness should be an inspiration to us all. Those who have been lucky enough to hear David speak at club dinners and awards evenings will have heard many unique and humorous tales of his days as a referee. I am sure he has many more and I for one look forward to hearing them in the future. I would also like to thank David's wife Helen whose support has been incredible, always buoyant and happy. David, Helen, I thank you both.
Mark Downs
(Secretary, Lancashire County Rugby Football Union)