Newyddion

15/05/2024 00:00, I Mewn Blog /

We are very sad to announce that Dai Phillips, Life Member and past Senior Vice President of Welsh Schools Athletics Association, sadly passed away on the 29th April following a short illness.

Dai was born in Breconshire and attended the local junior school, before moving to Machynlleth in Montgomeryshire for his secondary education.

He was selected for the 100 yards and relay as part of the Montgomeryshire Boys team, who competed in the first Welsh Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships at Taff Vale Park, Pontypridd, in 1947. He was also selected to compete in the 1949 and 1951 Championships.

His association with Welsh Schools continued after he completed his teacher training at Loughborough College, when he became the PE master at Llanidloes High School for many decades before eventually moving into the Mathematics Department.

However, despite the change of subject in his teaching career, Dai continued his passion with Athletics and took up many key administrative roles for both Powys Schools and Welsh Schools Athletics Associations. He held nearly every position, from Senior Vice President, Chairman, General Secretary, Treasurer, Competition Secretary and Team Manager.

In 1994 he stepped down from his role as National Schools General Secretary to care for his son who had been involved in a very serious accident.

Despite this, he continued to be a conscientious Treasurer for Powys Schools Athletics Association until he passed away.

It must be mentioned that Dai was also a superb footballer, a flying and skilful winger who was a key member in 1965 when his beloved Llanidloes Town Football Club (The Daffs) won the Welsh Amateur Cup. Following his playing career he once again took on administrative and coaching roles at his local football club. The Club stated he was a dear friend to everybody.

His voluntary contribution to Schools Athletics in Montgomeryshire/Powys from 1957 to 2024, has not been matched by any other County Schools/District Schools Association, in Wales.

Dai was a giant of a personality, a fine sportsman, a great character and passionate about sport. He will be sorely missed by everybody.

Our thoughts are with Dai's family and friends at this very sad time.

There will be a private funeral service, for family and close friends. Any donations to Llanidloes Hospital, League of Friends.