Dave Protheroe

Dave Protheroe

Cumberland FA are saddened to hear of the passing of former Secretary and Life Member of Cumbria Schools FA, Dave Protheroe

The Cumberland FA were saddened to learn of the passing of former Secretary and Life Member of Cumbria Schools FA, Dave Prothero, who was aged 69. 

The Northern Counties FA paid tribute to Dave on their website in saying: 

“Very many young people, boys and girls, owe a great debt of gratitude to Dave for his unstinting efforts to create opportunity for them to play football at the best possible level.

We are certain that all those involved in English Schools football, and especially the Northern Counties, will have a story or memory of Dave. He was unfailing in his love of the game in Schools, and all that it could offer. He was totally reliable and his loss will be felt by all who had the pleasure to know him. He was always true to his word. If there was a job to be done then Dave would make sure it was done, and done well.”

Dave Protheroe

Cumberland FA CEO Ben Snowdon, who had worked closely with Dave throughout his time at Cumbria Schools, stated: 

“When I read the post I can honestly say that I was truly gutted.  That was the mark of Dave as a person.  He was the type who you could hear before you could see him and everyone who met him felt better for having done so.  

His enthusiasm for life, but especially grassroots football was infectious.  Other than his family, I don’t  think many other things gave him more joy than seeing kids playing football. 

This outlook meant that I don’t think I ever heard him reject a new idea or competition so long as it meant more people playing.  During his time I remember working with him to increase the number of girls schools competitions, introducing futsal into the calendar and pioneering the first pan-disability schools event.  

There was never an ego.  Never a problem.  If he could do something he would.  He was just a truly wonderful person. 

On behalf of Cumberland FA I would like to send our sincere condolences to Dave’s family, close friends and colleagues from across the Northern Counties, specially Cumbria Schools FA.  At a time when football really doesn’t seem as important, we hope the knowledge that the grassroots game in Cumberland is united in sending our love, thoughts and best wishes, offers a degree of comfort at this difficult time."