Football clubs mourn respected official Dave
Glowing tributes have been paid after the death of West Sussex football official Dave Huggett.
The death of Dave, who lived at Petworth, was revealed locally by Storrington FC, whose spokesman said on Twitter: “Sad news hearing that Dave Huggett has passed away after contracting Covid.”
Storrington chairman Nigel Dyer said: “He has been an official in the county for years and years, even when I was playing.
“He was always cheerful and talkative. It’s always sad to see good people go from the football community, especially with the longevity of his service.”
Steve Nealgrove, chairman of the Southern Combination League. He said: “We at the league were very saddened to hear the news.
“Our under-18s secretary told me Dave was one of those who if you gave him only an hour’s notice of an official being needed, he would put his boots in his bag and off he would go.
He was always very keen to support the league. He was held in very high regard by the league and fellow officials. Our sincere condolences go out to his family.”
Broadbridge Heath manager Chris Simmons added: “Really sad news, Dave was always such a nice, happy and positive official and very well
respected! #topguy RIP Huggie.”
Loxwood FC added: “Such sad news of the passing of Dave Huggett, a referee in the WSFL for many years and in later years a linesman in the SCFL. He had been to The Nest so many times he was
part of the fixtures and fittings, he will be missed by all of us here, we are all thinking of his family.”
East Dean FC said: “Sad news to hear Dave Huggett has passed away, loyal servant to Sussex football, such a great character which will be
sadly missed #ripdave.”
Upper Beeding FC tweeted: “Very sad news. Loved his big watch, always officiated with honesty and integrity. RIP, and just in case we never said it enough at matches, thank you Dave.” Mile Oak FC and local football blogger
Trevor Knell were others to express their sadness, while Martin Gander said: “Very sad news for Sussex football, always enjoyed a chat with Dave, great character and will be sadly missed. Condolences to all family and friends RIP Dave.”