Local rugby legend Bob Sulley died on 9th Oct 2021. There are not many Hinckley rugby people in their 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s who have not been influenced by Bob, whether as Mr Sulley in their younger school days at Mount Grace in the 70s, as a player during the 80s or during one of Hinckley Rugby Club's most successful periods in the 90s where he coached the club from one of the lowest leagues in the country through to National 3 North.

Always having to balance the conflict of the amateur and semi-professional transition during his coaching days at Hinckley, he trod a bold path to transform the club from the depths of anonymity to one which we could all be proud of.

He had this burning desire to get the best out of his players, which was evident throughout his career. Even in his latter day return to the club via walking rugby, he was still trying to improve everyone until his last session.

Bob was rugby through and through. He played for his local city club Nottingham in his younger years before teaching brought him to Hinckley. He was soon playing for Hinckley RFC where he became a successful captain. During his coaching career, he successfully coached Hinckley and Market Bosworth as well as having a successful stint in Mid Wales.

However, Bob was more than rugby, he was a giver, an educator and a leader. He took more pride in others achievements than he did in his own at times. And if he believed in you, then he gave you the belief to achieve more than you knew. Without Bob I would have never gone to university. He was one of those people, he made you grow.

So 3 cheers to you Bob, for all that you gave and all that you achieved, your influence will remain for many years after it was your time to go. And if you bump into old PC on your journey... well that is another story.

Of course many people will miss Bob. No more that his surviving family, wife Ros and the girls. It would be good to get a great turnout from the club as a mark of respect. There are Covid restrictions at Gedling Crematorium so if you would like to go, could you coordinate with Dawn Haagensen on 07711657992 or email dawn495@notmail.com.

The funeral will be held at Gedling Crematorium at 11.30am on Thursday 4th November. The wake will be held after at the Four Bells, Woodborough.

Many thanks

John Tilley
HRFC Chairman