Passing of North West stalwart John Watson

The North West Cricket fraternity is mourning the loss today of former, player, umpire and youth Coach John Watson who has passed away after a lengthy illness.

(Photo courtesy of CricketEurope)

“Camper” as he was known to many, played for Waterside, Brigade, Creevedonnell and finally his beloved Glendermott where he spent more than 30 years in various roles.

John made his reputation as a quick bowler at Beechgrove where he was club captain for a time, however he was also part of the Creevedonnell side that beat Brigade in the top flight play-off in their only relegation season.

He returned to Beechgrove soon after before heading to the Rectory and his spiritual home.

John was youth team Coach at Glendermott and graduated from there to become a highly respected under-17 Coach for the North West. He was a man who knew his own mind and had a great insight into strengths and weaknesses in his players’ technique.

He even had a turn at umpiring and could easily have made a career at that too; however nothing gave him more pleasure, and often frustration, than sitting among his friends at the Rectory watching the GCC.

John is survived by wife Liz, son Paul and daughters Christina, Lisa and Clare.

He will be sorely missed by all in the North West, but nowhere moreso than on Bonds Street.