As has been reported in other threads Leigh Centurions has lost quite a few loyal fans and stalwarts over the last few weeks and condolences go to all the families in these sad times.
Another lifelong supporter "Tony Pytlasinski" sadly added to the numbers this week. RIP mate, you will be missed.
However, this post is about Andy. I contacted him quite a few weeks ago when Tony was first diagnosed with terminal cancer. Tony had put his name on the sponsored shirt and was looking forward to the coming season, when he was hit with the devastating news. We wer'nt sure how long Tony had so I asked Andy if Tony could at least have a sneak preview of a shirt before the launch and this is where the story really begins.
Even though Andy hadn't a clue who Tony was and is obviously a very busy man he went way beyond what I was honestly expecting from him. He visited Tony in Hope hospital with the yet unreleased shirt design, this unexpected visit lifted Tony more than any drugs could have and was a great gesture from Andy. It didn't just stop there Andy has constantly enquired about Tonys health and even on a what must be a very hectic schedule visited Tony on Christmas eve of all times.
Tony passed away last week without getting the chance to thank Andy for everything he's done (we were hoping to see him at the Wigan game) so this praise comes from his family instead.
Andy.......From being a complete stranger who we only knew as being a new board member doing a great job for Leigh Centurions, you have truly tapped into the new spirit of the whole ethos. LEIGH CENTURIONS has become more than just a rugby team and the sound-bites like "BeLeigh've" and "We're all in it together" really do have credit. Im sure Andy won't feel comfortable with this praise and I know he'd have liked to have kept it quiet, but it has to be said.
When this new BOM came in, it has had quite a positive effect on the club. It has tried to reach out to the community and there are many GREAT things coming along. Andy's gestures went way beyond his role at the club but is just another example of how things are going in "THE FAMILY" of Leigh Centurions.