By Laurence White

After much consideration, Windy has made the difficult decision to step away from the role following the conclusion of the 2025/26 campaign.

Windy’s story with MIRFC began long before stepping into coaching.

Having first pulled on a Mersea shirt around 1999, he has been woven into the fabric of island rugby for more than two decades.

He first took up a coaching role shortly after the club’s move to The Glebe in 2014 and has since played a huge part in shaping the club into what it is today. His commitment to Mersea Rugby has been unwavering, and the relationships he has built with teammates, players, coaches, and supporters will never be forgotten.

Former teammate Pete Le Marquand recalled one unforgettable occasion — a fierce battle against Colchester 1st XV on a misty afternoon, with both teams running out to the sound of bagpipes. Pure grassroots rugby.

Pete went on to sum Windy up perfectly:
“Still the best bloke ever. Over the years, he’s finally accepted he had no hair and shaved it off rather than sticking with the gelled comb-over — although there’s probably still a bit of denial there, which is why he’s always wearing a hat!”

Paul “Donk” Le Marquand also reflected on Windy’s impact:
“From the moment Windy first started coaching, you could see the passion and energy he brought to the club. I’ve absolutely loved watching my old tackle partner take the club to the next level — Windy going low and me going high always seemed to do the trick!

I only wish I’d had more time on the pitch alongside him, but from around 1999 onwards he was always there, giving everything to the club. Twenty-five years at the club makes him a true club legend — and honestly, a saint as well for putting up with the lads and that Drum for all those years!”

Club legend David Murrell, who played alongside Windy during his playing days, added:
“Windy has always been one of the best front-row props to pull on a shirt for Mersea. Unfortunately, his attitude and style of play didn’t quite progress with the rest of the pack, which eventually saw him move into the back row.

With ball in hand, maybe not the strongest, but defensively he was more than capable — when he fancied it. He has also done a fantastic job as Head Coach of Mersea, something he should be hugely proud of. A true Mersea lad, respected and thought highly of by teammates, supporters, and even opponents.”

Windy himself shared the following message on his departure:
“As we came into the 2015 season, the club was struggling for player numbers and, indeed, a coach.

I have always felt indebted to Mersea Rugby. The club has been a massive part of my life, providing lifelong memories on the pitch and possibly a friend or two off it (although they may say differently!).

I was lucky enough to be part of the club during one of its strongest periods as a senior section, and that made me think: what can I do to help?

At first, we focused purely on enjoying our rugby again — spreading the word, attracting new players, and ensuring it was an inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of experience or ability.

Over the last decade, I’ve been proud to see the adult section win four league titles across both grades, two cups, and, in my final match, reach a national cup final.

But the real highlight has been seeing lads improve and, more importantly, enjoy their rugby again on this special island.

It has always been about the players. We’ve seen many come and go, but every single one has been brilliant to be around (ignore that, Drum!) and incredibly responsive and patient with my coaching, which has allowed me to develop too. I think I’m even more in debt now!

I can only thank the lads and the club for the faith they placed in me, for creating yet more memories, and for being so supportive throughout. I will miss being with the players enormously.

The club is in such a strong position now. The senior section has grown to around 60 players, while the youth section has expanded to more than 180.

Massive credit must go to the island and everyone involved, who continue to show incredible dedication, passion, and enjoyment for both the game and the club.

Lastly, I just want to say a huge thank you to everyone involved. I still plan on coaching within the club — perhaps at age-grade level — as long as they’ll have me, of course.

Keep playing island rugby for this amazing club.

‘Rugby in the sun!’
(Other than September to March, when it’s bloody cold and wet!)”

Thank you for everything, Windy!