Whilst Mike had not been well for a while his passing at this time was unexpected.

Mike was a proud and active member of Carlisle RFC first as a player in the 1950s. Work took him away from the Carlisle area but when he returned in retirement he was coach and mentor to so many of our youth players, often the first contact they had with the club as he voluntarily delivered rugby taster sessions in our local primary and secondary schools throughout the 1990s and 2000s.

He actively coached a number of our sides in this period with his first love for those at the younger end of the age spectrum. Many past and current players owe him and his family a huge debt of gratitude for everything he did for the club.
Our picture here shows him with Matty Shields, whom he coached as an U8!

Our condolences go out to his wife Joan, son’s Bill (also a former club player and coach) and Tom, as well as all the extended family for their loss. We remember with gladness a life well lived and much happiness.

Funeral arrangements are still to be finalised; we will advise when these are confirmed.

Phil Healy