The deaf football community in Scotland is mourning the loss of Sandy Brooks. A hugely important figure in deaf football, Sandy played a major part in taking the game to the level it is at today. He was a role model and icon for those within the community.
Sandy was involved in deaf football for over 60 years. Joining Glasgow Deaf Athletic Football Club as a player at 19, he would go on to become club secretary and eventually honorary president.
Martin Lewis, Director of the Scottish Deaf Football Association, paid tribute to Sandy Brooks, saying: “I have lost a friend, but the deaf football community has lost a legend, a role model to deaf players and cubs.
“He dedicated life to taking deaf football to the highest level possible. I am proud to have met him and worked with him – we will remember him in our hearts.”
David McArdle, Disability Development Officer at the Scottish FA also paid tribute to Sandy: “Sandy had made a great impact on the deaf community as a whole and has drove the game forward for many of years. The legacy of his work will continue to be seen in everything that takes place in the future of deaf football in Scotland.”