Sheffield Eagles pay touching tribute after former director and ‘true gentleman’ dies

Ian Anniss, who played a key role in the club’s development after they reformed in 2000, passed away peacefully at home on 14 August.

A club statement read: “He played a huge role at both the Eagles and in the development of rugby league across the city of Sheffield during his life and everyone at the club is deeply saddened by his passing.

"A huge loss for Sheffield Eagles, rugby league in the city and the sport, he will be sorely missed.”

Ian first started watching the Eagles in their debut season in 1984 alongside his wife Marion and sons Matt and Simon. He began coaching at the Junior Eagles with Marion shortly after and his under-11s side became the first Sheffield team to appear at Wembley Stadium when they played in the schools curtain-raiser before 1993 Challenge Cup final.

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Ian, who was also a grandfather, became director of the Eagles shortly after they reformed, a position he held until 2017.

The statement continued: “During his time as director his focus of promoting community rugby league across the city continued and was down to his drive the great successes the club had over the years.

"He was one of the key people in relaunching the club’s foundation and through his contacts, experience and professional links was instrumental in the Eagles building key relationships with schools, colleges and universities across the city”.

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Ian had agreed to become chairman of the foundation earlier this year, the club said.The statement read: "A mentor and teacher to members of staff at the Eagles over the years, he was a fountain of knowledge and advice for many and supported everyone with a caring and passionate drive, a true gentleman.”

A private funeral service will be held at Hutcliffe Wood Crematorium on Thursday 3 September, with a memorial service for friends and family to be planned at a later date.

Should people wish to, Ian’s family have requested donations to Friends of Thornbridge Outdoors or St. Luke's Hospice, two charities “close to his heart”.