It is with great sadness that we must report the passing of Eric Hand, founder of the Watford Sunday League and former Chair of Hertfordshire FA

Despite his own playing career being limited by the outbreak of the Second World War, Eric Hand developed a passion for the game that would persist throughout his life, devoting countless hours to create opportunities for others to enjoy the game.

Widely regarded as the driving force behind the establishment of the Watford Sunday League in 1955, thus began more than 50 years involvement in administration which would transform the landscape of grassroots football in our county.

Today it seems hard to believe that the simple existence of a football league could be so controversial, but at that time the idea of playing on a Sunday was fiercely opposed by those who believed that it should be reserved solely for religious observance.

While Sunday Leagues had begun to spring up across London in the preceding decades, this was one of the first to become established outside of the capital, allowing those fans who followed a team on Saturday the chance to play themselves.

Initially shunned by The FA and decried by many of high standing in the local community, the idea nevertheless proved popular. The League grew rapidly to include 7 divisions of 10 teams, with Eric proving to be a dedicated and effective administrator.

In an interview with the Watford Observer he once reflected on the huge amount of time and effort he had given to make the game happen, saying “I don’t know how I had enough time to go to work. I suppose my job fitted in with my football life”.

Over the years attitudes towards Sunday football would change and it became an accepted part of the game. The league became affiliated and Eric joined Hertfordshire FA in 1964, eventually serving as Chair of the Association between 1990 and 2002.

Here he oversaw a period of significant change as the organisation transitioned towards that which we know today. This included combining the youth and adult associations, securing a permanent home in Letchworth, taking on staff for the first time and changes in governance that led to the establishment of a not-for-profit Limited Company.

Despite health issues and failing sight in later years, Eric’s passion for the game never dimmed, remaining engaged in the local grassroots game and a season ticket holder at his beloved Watford FC for as long as he was physically able to attend.

Through his passion for increasing opportunities to play and his commitment to modernising the structures that underpin the running of the game, Eric played a significant role in shaping the football landscape that exists in the county today. His contribution to the grassroots game in Hertfordshire shall never be forgotten.

On learning of his passing Graham Phillips, Chair of Hertfordshire FA said:

“We are all deeply saddened to hear that our dear friend Eric has passed away. Everyone at Hertfordshire FA sends their sincere condolences to his family and friends and our thoughts are with them at this most difficult time. He will be sadly missed”.

Karl Lingham, CEO of Hertfordshire FA added:

“There are very few who could match Eric in terms of their impact on the game in Hertfordshire. His pioneering efforts to establish Sunday football created opportunities for generations of players in the county and his legacy continues to be felt to this day”.

Funeral Arrangements

We understand that many from across the game would appreciate the opportunity to pay their respects to Eric. Details of the funeral will be provided here as appropriate following consultations with his family.