JOHN ANDISON 1939-2024

Everyone at Mansfield Park were deeply saddened on Sunday evening to hear the news of the sudden passing of long standing committee stalwart John Andison.

John who had been battling illness throughout this season, died at home in Hawick with his family by his side.

John began his playing career with the PSA before moving to Hawick YM, after which time he played for his regiment during National Service. He unfortunately picked up an injury during that time which robbed him from the opportunity of pushing for a ‘Green Jersey’ on his return home. However John continued his involvement with the game, becoming part of the excellent PSA Committee of the 1970’s, ultimately being awarded life membership of the club for his services. He also held the position of U18’s South of Scotland, and Scotland selector during his time in semi-junior rugby.

He began his tenure at Mansfield Park in the 1970’s when invited down by the then, Club Secretary Dick Aitchison, because the Fixture Secretary George Penman, was due to be elected Vice President. As was protocol back then, John was listed’ for office, shadowing George for a period of time, before seamlessly assuming the role together with the role of Convenor of Hawick Sevens.

Since then, barring a brief sojourn, he has been an integral part of the Hawick RFC Executive.

As Match Secretary, every season he carried out countless hours of invaluable service for his beloved Greens, liaising with his counterparts all over the UK to make sure matches and pitches were confirmed, buses ordered and referee’s lined up. John also took care of the hugely important and ever expanding task of player registration and insurance.

In his other capacity as Ground & Buildings Convenor for Mansfield Park, he was always on hand, working closely with his good friend groundsman Davy Cranston, making sure everything was in order. If he couldn’t carry out the necessary work himself, he always had a reliable contact in his address book he could call.

A permanent fixture at the club for so long, John will be a huge miss.

Everyone at Hawick RFC would like to send our most sincere condolences and deepest sympathies to John’s wife Ina and their family. We wish you strength, support and comfort, together with the love of friends and family as you remember cherished memories.

In Memoriam - Thank you John, for everything you have done for Hawick RFC, we owe you a great debt of gratitude. 🏉💚 (MG)