CHRIS WADHAMS

It is with much sadness that the Club reports on the passing of its Honorary President and long serving ex-Chairman, Chris Wadhams. After a short recent illness, Chris passed away on the morning of 25th March.

Chris served the Club during its days as Birmingham Municipal Hockey Club, through its transition into Yardley Hockey Club.

Chris burst onto the Club scene in 1967ish, quickly making a name for himself as a goalscoring inside-right (as it was in those days) or was it as Centre-Forward?!  He established himself into the 1st X1 having made his debut on the grass pitches at  GEC Witton in September 1967.

Whist still a regular player, he was elected to the position of Club Chairman for the 1991-92 season. He became the Club’s longest serving Chairman until ill health cut short his tenure after 27years in 2017-18. To mark his service to the club, he was then elected as its Honorary President.

As well as his playing career in the 1st team he captained the 3rd X1  for three seasons, before moving onto the 3rd X1/Swallows for another three seasons, followed by  a season guiding  the re-introduction of the  Badgers set up in 2007- 08  and finally as a player/coach he oversaw the 2nd team Fathom side for five seasons. Some service to the Club!!

When he was not needed as a player/coach he would be seen with his whistle helping out as an umpire. When not needed in these guises he would often provide a taxi service for those in need for away games.

Other notable achievements:

He received his Club colours in 1973-74

He was awarded Clubman of the Year in 1995-6, 2002-03 and 2007-08

 

Many Club members present and past will have much cause to be thankful for Chris’s encouragement and support, in so many ways, during their time with the club. His passing is very sad and the Club’s deepest condolences go out to his family.

 

From what I can gather it is intended, in due course, to hold a memorial for Chris. Details and practicalities of such an event have yet to be finalised but will be circulated at the appropriate time.

 

Many of us club ‘oldies’ will cherish our memories of Chris as a fellow club member and will appreciate all his hard work and efforts on behalf of the Club. I remember Chris and I made our 1st team debuts in that same match at GEC Witton!

 

I also feel the loss of a good friend.

 

May he rest in peace.

 

Peter Brainch

Club Secretary