Published at 15:40, Wednesday, 06 January 2010

WHITEHAVEN legend of yesteryear Tommy Keen has died.

HALL OF FAMER: Tommy Keen

The club’s Hall of Fame star, hailed as one of the bravest players in the club’s history, passed away on Sunday aged 84.

Known to team-mates as Tucker, his huge achievements were recognised in 2004 when he became only the sixth player to be inducted in to the Recre’s illustrious Hall of Fame. He made 230 appearances for the club between February 1949 and September 1956, scoring 36 tries.

And he gained hero status as part of the 1955 team which won the club’s first-ever trophy – the Lancashire Shield.

The Barrow-based half-back notched a notable first in the 1952-53 season, scoring the opening try of the tour against the visiting Australians.

He was also the first Haven player to touch down against mighty Wigan, in the 14-7 home defeat in November 1950.

But his career was cut short after suffering a neck dislocation against Halifax at the Recre aged just 31.

Des Byrne, Haven chairman at the time of his induction, last night said: “I didn’t see him play but heard a lot about him.

“He was renowned for his tough tackling and was held in high regard by older fans who remember him playing.”

He followed John McKeown, Dick Huddart, Bill McAlone, Bill Holliday and Phil Kitchin in to the Hall of Fame.

He attended his induction ceremony at the Recre with wife and daughter, both named Catherine, two granddaughters and one great-granddaughter, who joined in the warm applause from appreciative fans.

“It was one of the greatest feelings of my life,” said Mr Keen, later, reflecting on the day. “Rugby was everything to me. I loved every single moment of it, being among the lads, talking about the game, reading about it.

“It was wonderful to be asked to go back and get an award like this. There was lots of old faces and friends there too. I enjoyed every minute of it.”

Published by http://www.whitehavennews.co.uk