Peter Kennedy, who died last week aged 78, has been described as the “ultimate club man.”
The accolade has come from Simon Kendall, who succeeded Kennedy as President of Hebden Royd Red Star AFC last summer.
Kennedy started at the club in its former guise as Heptonstall AFC as a 14-year-old player in the 1951-1952 season.
He went on to play at every level, filled every official position and worked tirelessly for the club.
Kendall said Kennedy’s contribution was “something that is very rare in modern day sport.”
He added: “Peter’s knowledge of the club, its trials and triumphs and the qualities of its past and present players was unbelievable.”
Kennedy had a 25-year playing career, hanging up his boots after a game against Illingworth in 1977, and he went on to manage the club at various levels.
He ensured the club had enough funds to pay its dues as well as ensuring some proceeds were donated to local organisations.
Kennedy was extremely proud of the club’s historic treble in the 1996-1997 season, when the firsts won the Halifax AFL title, Challenge Cup and Halifax FA Cup. He also ensured the reserves got the credit they deserved for their successes.
Kennedy was given life membership of the Halifax AFL and Halifax FA. He won Halifax League’s Outstanding Clubman Trophy in 1995 and the Edward Hebblethwaite Jubilee Memorial Trophy for services to local football in 1998.
When the club celebrated its centenary in 2008, Kennedy helped research a book called ‘A Century of Stars’.
He was also heavily involved in last year’s function at Mythomroyd Community Centre to celebrate 50 years playing at White Lee.
In recognition of his efforts, Red Star bought Peter a season ticket for another love of his life, Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
A minute’s silence was held at all Halifax AFL matches last Saturday and the Red Star players wore black arm bands.
“Peter was a gentleman, a true friend, a great man and he loved football,” added Kendall.
“He will be truly missed by everyone at Hebden Royd Red Star.”
Kennedy lived at Mytholmroyd. A requiem mass will be held for him at St Patrick’s Church, New North Road, Huddersfield on Friday, March 6 (1.0), followed by interment at Luddenden cemetery at 2.30pm.