Mike Harris Rest In Peace

Posted 20th April 2021

I am sad to report that our Life President, Mike Harris, died peacefully at home Tuesday 20th April 2021. This is huge loss and our thoughts go out to his family of whom he was extremely proud.

It is difficult to put into words what "The Mexican" meant to Old Wilsonians. The fact he was our Life President really says it all. He simply bled old gold and black and he was never happier than when he was at Hayes. He was immensely proud of the club and the fact that is provided a platform for Old Wilsonians of all abilities to share fun times on the pitch and in the bar.

During his lengthy association with the club, he has done everything! He has been a player, a referee and held every committee position going, some for a large number of years. Without him, we wouldn't still exist. Mike is also the sole reason that you all know how many games you have played for the club and how many goals you have scored. He was one of a kind and not someone that will ever be replaced. Over the years he has spent of fortune feeding and watering our referees and other visitors and ensuring that all players and opposition treated our facilities with respect.

I have lots of fond memories of Mike. He has been hugely supportive of me and others during my time on the committee and always had a piece of advice or a way to help. I remember him walking onto the first team pitch and demanding the referee disallowing a goal that Jon Howe had scored with his hand, annoying at time, but testament to his Corinthian spirit. Programme editors for cup finals will not miss his 15-page submissions detailing the clubs progress on a day-to-day basis, AGM's will be significantly shorter and you haven't played at Old Wilsonians without having been shouted at for playing in the goal mouth or taking your bag in the bar!

Over recent years he got huge joy of what the 1st XI achieved. I have never seen him happier than he was when holding the AFA Senior Cup in 2014 and 2015. He was also over the moon when we were asked to host the final in 2016. However, what made him Mr Old Wilsonians was he was equally content when we managed to put out a 10th XI or have a side with a large number of school boys in it.

A true legend of amateur football and one that will leave a huge hole at Hayes. We have lost a number of legends in recent years and let's hope that they will be still having a drink in the bar every Saturday shouting their "constructive" critisicm.

Rest easy mate, Ariba

Jamie and all at Old Wilsonians