DOUBLE TRAGEDY
Footballer killed on M-way and man pulled from burning car a week ago dies
TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Bedworth United player who died when he was hit by a bus on a motorway.
Nick Mowl, who went on to coach young players around the world following his playing days, was killed on the M5 near West Bromwich a week ago today. He was just 41.
A tribute from his family issued through West Midlands Police said: “A wonderful son, brother and uncle who was loved so much.
“You will always be in our thoughts and memories. RIP.”
Police say they are still trying to work out exactly what happened.
Det Sgt Alan Hands, from the West Midlands Police Collision Investigation Unit, said: “We are still working to better understand the circumstances behind Mr Mowl’s death and would ask anyone who may have spoken to him earlier that day to get in contact with us.”
Tributes have flooded in for Nick, known often as Mowly, after news spread of his death around the footballing community.
Bedworth United said Nick was popular with fans during his time at The Oval between 2007 and 2009.
A club spokesperson said: “He was a fans’ favourite and was particularly well liked. He was a tough tackling player.
“We are all in the club saddened by his passing and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”
Nick had a wide range of coaching credentials having mentored players at Solihull College, Birmingham City University, Premier Skills and juniors at Coventry City.
Many former coaching pupils shared tributes to the ‘great football coach’ online.
Elliot Hill said: “RIP Nick Mowl. Devastated to hear the sad news. One of the most genuine guys around and a great football coach back when I was at Solihull College.”
Premier Skills Coaching said: “Devastated by the news that one of our former coaches Nick Mowl has passed away.
“Thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest in Peace Mowly.”
On Twitter, Taylor Perales said: “Not only a great mentor for me, but also considered family. The one who has made me the player I am today.
“RIP Nick Mowl you will be missed.”
Solihull Moors Football Club posted a tribute to Nick on their website.
It said: “It is with regret we report on the premature death of Nick Mowl a former Solihull Borough player. He died last Tuesday the 16th May at the age of 41.
“In a playing career which lasted 13 years Nick played for Bedworth United, Stratford Town (under Mickey Moore) and appeared in 2007 for Solihull Borough when he played in the same team as Jack Byrne in the club’s final season. He was an experienced midfielder, hard working and a tenacious tackler – a fans’ favourite!”
Nick’s football coaching even took him to America and Australia.
He coached at the Hawks Soccer Club in California, which paid a lengthy tribute to him on Facebook after hearing of his death.