Ahead of their local friendly at Watcombe Bottom yesterday (Saturday), Ventnor Rugby Club paused to remember much-loved player Tristan ‘Beast’ Price, who tragically died in a road traffic collision earlier this month.
Ventnor Rugby Club marked a deeply emotional afternoon as players, officials and supporters came together to commemorate the life of Tristan, known to many as ‘Beast’, following his tragic death the previous weekend.
Also remembered on the day was Keith Fradgley, a former club president and long-standing sponsor whose leadership and support played a major role in shaping Ventnor RFC over many years.
Both men were honoured before a large crowd, with numerous floral tributes laid in their memory, reflecting the depth of feeling within the club and the wider community.
Tributes have continued to pour in for Tristan, described by friends and teammates as a one-in-a-million character who had given almost three decades of service to the club.
In his mid-40s, he had become a constant presence at Ventnor, known as much for his commitment and resilience as for the personality he brought to the club.
Lewy Morton, Ventnor RFC, paid tribute to his lifelong dedication
“Tristan was part of the fabric of the club. He was a constant at Ventnor, always turning up, even after a knock on the head. He lived and breathed the club.”
Todd Riches reflected on his toughness and love for the game:
“Beast was always here. He would have loved today’s game against Isle of Wight RFC. Even with a dislocated shoulder, he would carry on playing. That was the measure of his unwavering commitment to the club.”
James Morton remembered the man behind the nickname:
“Beast had a unique personality. He always turned up at carnival, and he will be sorely missed. He was a fantastic player with commitment second to none.”
Beyond rugby, Tristan was widely known across the Island through his work as a doorman in Newport, where he was remembered as someone who treated everyone with respect, gave people a chance, and quietly made nights out better simply by being there. He was on his way to work when the accident occurred.
The strength of feeling following his death has also been reflected in a GoFundMe appeal for his family, which has raised more than £17,000.
As Ventnor Rugby Club reflected on the contributions of both men, the scene at the ground spoke for itself: a large gathering, countless floral tributes, and a community united in honouring a player and a servant of the club whose impact will not be forgotten.
Anyone wishing to contribute to Tristan’s GoFundMe appeal may do so here.
