A chance to remember the former Grecians player and manager
Bristol Rovers’ visit to St James Park on Saturday is our first home match since the death of former Grecians player and manager Eamonn Dolan, who passed away on 20 June aged just 48. A minute’s applause will be held prior to kick-off in memory of Eamo, who has been labelled by club chairman Julian Tagg as “a fantastic coach, a brilliant leader and a family man”. A book of condolence is available at reception throughout pre-season, in which supporters are invited to leave their memories of Eamo at this very sad time.
In September 2004 he left to join Reading as an academy manager where he was respected and admired by staff, managers, coaches and players during a stay that lasted over a decade.
Highly-regarded by City staff and fans alike, Eamo played an instrumental role in the resurgence of the football club. He was key to the development of Football in the Community and the club’s youth system, and became full-time manager after relegation to the Conference in 2003. He inherited a club in crisis, having to work with the smallest squad in City’s history whilst the Trust was battling to save the club’s existence. Eamonn overcame every obstacle that was placed in his way.
Eamonn was diagnosed with cancer last August, having previously overcome the illness at just 23. His playing career with City was cut short due to the illness, but he remained at the club; taking on community, youth coach and caretaker manager roles, before becoming the Grecians’ full-time manager when the club were in a desperate state.
We hope to welcome you all back to St James Park on Saturday to remember a man who did so much for our football club.