A minute’s applause was held at the Victory Stadium in Portsmouth on Saturday before the match between United Services Portsmouth and Cowes Sports to celebrate the life of Richard Chase, who sadly passed away last week.
Richard’s life was also commemorated at several Isle of Wight football grounds: Cowes Enterprise College (Vectis v Ryde Saints), Calbourne Rec (Yarmouth & Calbourne v AFC Wootton) and Beatrice Avenue (East Cowes Vics v High Park).
Richard, who was born in Walthamstow, London in 1972, first moved to the Isle of Wight 28 years ago. His family originally came from the Caribbean Island of Barbados. He was a gifted amateur footballer who played for Newport, Carisbrooke United and Wootton.
Both Richard’s sons, Callum and Brandon, are now footballers themselves: Callum plays for Wessex League club Cowes Sports and Brandon for Island League side Adgestone. Richard also leaves a daughter, Amelie.
As previously reported by Island Echo, a search was launched by Police in a bid to locate Richard after he went missing following a night out in Newport. Sadly, his body was found at Newport Harbour last Sunday.
Callum Chase said about his father:
“You are the best dad anyone could wish for, and I’m sorry I never showed my loving enough but just know I will love you forever. You have been a massive figure in so many people’s lives including mine. You have played such a massive part in making me who I am today. I’m more than proud to call you my Dad.”
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East Cowes Vics manager Richard Woodburn said:
“It is at sad times like these when the Isle of Wight football community comes to the fore and puts local rivalries to one side, all coming together as one, as we all at Vics wish Callum, Brandon, Amelie and his family our deepest heartfelt condolences at this terrible time.”
Newport co-manager Stewart Shepherd said:
“All of us involved with Newport Football Club would like to send our regards to Callum, Brandon and his family during this terrible time for them all.”
Cowes Sports assistant manager Alex Smith said:
“All at Cowes Sports would like to send our deepest condolences to Richard’s family and friends at this difficult time, especially to Callum. I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Richard, but do know that Callum’s character, kindness, and determination will honour his dad’s memory. I’m exceptionally proud of him and know his dad is too.”
A beautiful write up for a beautiful soul.