Brian Gallagher, the founder of Waveney Youth Football Club, died at his home in Lowestoft on October 28 2013.
A former teaching assistant at Harris Middle School, Mr Gallagher set up Waveney Youth FC in 1978 and over the following 30 years, he coached and managed some of the most successful teams in the history of the Norfolk and Suffolk Youth League.
Among the young players to benefit from his knowledge and advice were more than 100 who went on to represent Lowestoft Town FC at first team level, as well as Premier League footballers Daryl Sutch (Norwich City), Edwin Murray (Swindon Town) and Lee Durrant (Ipswich Town).
The Waveney teams that Mr Gallagher oversaw won more than 50 league and cup titles and more than 100 five-a-side and one-day tournaments, and last year a celebration evening was held to mark his achievements in local football.
Among the original Waveney Youth squad members in 1978-79 were Lowestoft chairman Gary Keyzor and current joint manager Ady Gallagher, along with Brian’s brother, David Gallagher. A Waveney FC spokesman said: “So many footballers in the Lowestoft area have him to thank for starting their football careers.” Text by Mark Boggis, Lowestoft Journal
Following a meeting between Mark Gamble, Waveney FC’s Charter Standard Development Officer and Gary Keyzor , Lowestoft Town FC Chairman, it was decided to instigate an annual match between the two sides and dedicate it to Brian’s memory by calling it the Brian Gallagher Memorial Trophy. The first match takes place at Crown meadow on 4th July. KO 7.30.David Gallagher has agreed to present the trophy to the winning side.
Prior to the match Waveney FC’s u17’s will have a 60 minute friendly on the Crown meadow turf. KO 5pm