TRIBUTES have been paid to well-known football coach Roger North, who died this week.
North was a stalwart figure within IW football, having been involved with numerous clubs over the years, including Shanklin, Ryde Sports, East Cowes Vics and Newport.
His centre of excellence produced a series of players who forged professional careers, with many progressing through the ranks at Portsmouth FC, where North was involved for nearly 20 years.
One of his son’s, Andy, better known as Pud, said: “You could write a book about his career.
“His idea was always to develop talented footballers.
“He was obviously involved with Pompey for a long time but he also sent players to Southampton.
“He was one of the few people I think could have done that, because he only had the best interests of the players in mind.”
Lee Dixon first came across North in 1980, while playing for Columbia against Ryde Sports on a Sunday morning.
He said: “Since that day I knew I had met a special man and someone who shared my love of football.
“I signed for Newport in 1985 when Rog was first team coach and I will never forget those pre-season training sessions.
“He was a great coach but more importantly a great friend and person.
“He was a one-off and Island football owes him a great debt of gratitude.”
Stewart Shepherd, who coached alongside North, added: “It’s such a massive loss to the Island.
“He was someone I had so much respect and time for and he will be missed by so many children, coaches and parents.”