Steve Rayner, who guided Whitecroft & Barton Sports to 6 Island League Division 1 titles during a remarkable career in local football, has passed away.
Steve passed away this morning (Thursday) with his sons Dean and Joe and daughter Danielle by his side.
Football was a huge part of Steve’s life, both as a talented player and later as a highly successful manager.
As a player, he was particularly renowned as a free-kick specialist and was regarded as one of the finest footballers of his generation in the local game.
Well-known Island football personality John Linington said of Steve’s ability:
“He could have played for whatever team he wanted to. He was that good.”
Steve later moved into management, taking charge of Oakfield and Sunday League side Rose and Crown before beginning the association with Whitecroft & Barton for which he became best known.
At Sandy Lane, Steve enjoyed remarkable success, guiding W&B to 6 Island League Division 1 championships and establishing the club as the dominant force in Island football.
His family said Steve ate, slept and breathed football, affectionately describing him as the ‘Del Bosque of W&B’.
His straightforward approach to management was illustrated during the 2020/21 title race when, after an important 3-0 victory over Brading Town, Steve simply said:
“We got the 3 points. That was all that was needed.”
His final season in charge ended with W&B being crowned Division 1 champions in 2020/21 before he retired from management that summer.
Away from the Island game, Steve was an avid Manchester United supporter.
He leaves his partner Elaine, children Dean, Joe and Danielle and 3 grandchildren.
Steve’s death will be keenly felt at Whitecroft & Barton and throughout the wider Island football community.
Whitecroft & Barton FC have said:
“It is with great sadness that we learned today of the passing of Steve Rayner.
“Steve guided our club through the most successful period in its history, leaving an incredible mark both on the club and on everyone fortunate enough to have known him.
“He will be sorely missed by everyone who had the honour of meeting him, but his achievements, his passion and, above all, his love for the club will ensure that his legacy continues to burn brightly for many years to come.
“Our thoughts are with Steve’s family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of sharing the journey with him.
“Rest in peace, Steve. You will never be forgotten.”
Newport IW FC added:
“Steve was a hugely talented player in his day and later an outstanding manager, his record of six Island League titles with Whitecroft & Barton speaks for itself.
“But perhaps the greatest tribute is simply how much football meant to him, and how much he meant to the people who played for him and knew him.
“Everyone at Newport IW FC sends our sincere condolences to Steve’s partner Elaine, his children Dean, Joe and Danielle, his grandchildren, and all his friends. Our thoughts are also with everyone at Whitecroft & Barton.
“A sad loss to Island football.”
