Major Mike Crowe MBE

Major (Retd) Mike Crowe MBE

It is with great sadness that the Army Football Association report the passing of Major (Retd) Mike Crowe MBE.

It is with great sadness that the Army Football Association report the passing of Major (Retd) Mike Crowe MBE, aged 90. Mike was a stalwart of the Association dating back to 1961 when he first became involved as the Football Officer of the Queen’s Own Highlanders. He remained involved as a volunteer for over 50 years.

Between 1971-75 Mike was the manager of the BAOR team and took great satisfaction when the British Army team were beaten 2-0 in 1975. In 1980 he was responsible for the Combined Services team in Hong Kong.

During his time in Scotland when Mike was 21 C/OC at HQ Company, The Bridge of Don, he developed a firm friendship with Sir Alex Ferguson who was, at the time, manager of Aberdeen and used to train within the barracks where Mike was responsible for the organisation of the facilities. Mike’s involvement within Scottish football extended to being made an Honorary Life Member of the Scottish Football Association where he also served as a Council member. Mike retired from the Army in 1986 but always maintained his involvement as a volunteer with the Army Football Association living in Farnham, close to the Aldershot HQ.

He was particularly proud of being invited to become an Honorary Vice President of the Army Football Association in 2002 stating that the appointment was the “pinnacle of a long career in football”. Prior to that appointment Mike had been the Secretary of the Massey Trophy for seven years.

However, Mike’s first love was the Infantry. The “Crowe” Cup is still competed for on an annual basis at the Infantry Sixes.

Up until three years ago Mike still used to visit the Association offices on a regular basis and was always a welcome guest at staff functions. He also volunteered at the annual Army Sixes up until he was 84 years old. We send our sincere condolences to Mike’s family and friends.