Basford United have led the tributes following the death of chairman Jamie Brough who died just three days after his appointment to run the non-league club. Mr Brough, who was appointed as chairman of the football club and director of Basford United Limited on April 28, died on Sunday, May 1. He passed away at the age of 45.
"Our thoughts and condolences go to Jamie’s wife Karen and his entire family at this incredibly difficult time," the club said in a statement. "As a mark of respect to Jamie and his family, the club will be leaving the position of chairman vacant for the 2022-23 season."
Just last week Basford owner Chris Munroe said he was "delighted" by the prospect of working with Mr Brough and taking the first team and educational academy forwards. Mr Brough was the founder and driving force behind Sports Gateway, which ran football academies with Notts County and Alfreton Town, as well as diploma and degree courses in sports coaching and sports science.
As part of his work at Sports Gateway, Mr Brough drove charity initiatives, such as providing meals for families struggling to make ends meet during school holidays and raising money for other sports clubs. It was the devotement to Sports Gateway and his driving passion that secured him a leading position at Basford United.
In a statement, Sports Gateway said: "With deep sorrow, we announce the passing on Sunday, May 1, of Jamie Brough, founder of Sports Gateway. Mr Jamie Brough, aged 45, who lived in Hucknall, has been working in sports for over 20 years and was passionate about making sports accessible for all to improve opportunities and outcomes for young people in Hucknall and the wider area. He leaves behind his wife and three children.
"Jamie was devoted to Sports Gateway, the staff and students, and saw them as an extension of his family. He will always be remembered for his tireless efforts and passion to make Sports Gateway a place where students can excel in sports and education.
"Jamie’s passion was to create an inclusive, enjoyable and inspiring environment, where all students are welcomed, encouraged and supported to be the best version of themselves. Jamie has developed an incredible and capable staff team at Sports Gateway.
"This team are committed to ensuring the students are supported through this difficult time and are dedicated to continuing with Jamie’s vision and ethos for Sports Gateway. Sports Gateway will continue to operate as normal and all events and activities will take place as planned. We are expecting 41 students to graduate this year with a Level 3 Diploma in Sports and we will welcome 40 new school leavers in September 2022."
