Bradford Hockey Club is deeply saddened by the news that Stuart Harrison, former Club Coach and Team Manager, passed away on August 13th with his family by his side.

Stuart, like so many, became involved in hockey as a parent, and fell in love with the game, becoming a Level 3 coach.

In the 90’s, with Bev Barstow, he coached the Bradford Women’s team to the National League and after moving to work with the Men’s teams, took the 1st team to the highest regional division in 2020.

Stuart also gave countless hours to junior hockey, enabling many young players to achieve their potential. He led BHC teams to the National u18 finals in 2005, the quarter finals in 2017 and National Indoor finals in 2015 and 2016. For 6 successive years in the 2010’s, boys from Bradford represented England at the National School Games, a remarkable achievement for a small Northern club that repeatedly punched above our weight due to Stuart’s coaching skills and dedication. Stuart also coached within the England Hockey Single System, and he was held in high esteem in the wider hockey world.

Stuart believed in his teams and his players and in the 2-3-2-3 system that was adopted across the club. The mantra of ‘Keep your shape, keep the ball and keep your head’ produced hockey that was fast, powerful, effective and a joy to watch.

Stuart’s dry wit, his certainty in his own decisions, his willingness to work with others and his belief that hockey was for everyone meant that players gave their best for him.

A wonderful coach, a great team mate and a generous and inspiring man, Stuart helped so many to give of their best as players and people. He will be much remembered and much missed. Rest in peace Stuart and thank you.

Stuart’s funeral will be at 9.45 am on September 1 at Elland Crematorium, followed by drinks at the Shibden Mill Inn.