Crowthorne Rugby is saddened by the news of the passing of a club legend from the clubs Broadmoor staff days Colin Whitaker.
A lot is asked of those who pull on boots and don the kit of their local rugby club on match day, players and officials give up 2 hours of their day to indulge in the art of our favourite sport and thereafter bond via the finest traditions of the third half.
But who pours that pint, who marked the pitch for the game to go ahead, ran the line, washed the kit, got the pads and flags in at the end of the game.
Crowthorne Rugby formally Broadmoor is young in terms of history, games played in the shadow of the secure wall required contribution from all of its members for it to survive and compete. There are those who stood out in terms of contribution, just as it is today, but one stands taller, Colin Whitaker, a man who loved his sport be it with bat, ball or on horse back joined the ranks of the club whilst it was in its earliest form, due to his stature (never once in life did he bump his head) he slotted in at hooker and wore the stripes of a front row player with pride, but as with many small clubs the number on his back changed frequently and he proved to be a competent full back seemingly always in the right place.
However it was off field that Colin made his mark, the moniker ‘Clubman ‘ does little justice for his contribution, Pad holder on wet training nights, changing room sweeper after match day, supporter, barman, kitman, linesman, self appointed duties, he never had to be asked, Odd Job, our very own.
Colin passed this week after a long battle with cancer, he leaves a loved daughter and grandson, he leaves a legion of friends and a quiet legacy, he leaves boots hard to fill, rest easy Colin.
– Ian Slap Hodsdon
