Brian Greenwood (front row, centre) with his England team-mates (circa 1967)
England Lacrosse is deeply saddened to hear of the death of former Leeds and Old Grovians’ player and all-round lacrosse stalwart, Brian Greenwood at the age of 94.
Brian was a staunch supporter of lacrosse, having started his playing career at Woodhouse Grove School in Yorkshire.
After sustaining a serious shoulder injury playing rugby, Brian took up his stick to join his brother Denis at Leeds Lacrosse Club.
The pair then moved the club to play at Woodhouse Grove School, becoming the Old Grovians Lacrosse Club.
While playing in NEMLA Division Two for Old Grovians, Brian helped to reinstate the Yorkshire County Lacrosse Association in 1955.
One of Brian’s proudest moments as a player was during his time playing for Yorkshire as his side defeated the old enemy, Lancashire, 9-5 in the 1961 county matches.
In the 1962 matches, Brian captained Yorkshire as they narrowly lost 8-7 to Cheshire.
After reintroducing lacrosse to Woodhouse Grove School in 1950s, Brian stayed involved in the game until the early 1980s, eventually becoming the School’s lacrosse coach and referee.
Unfortunately, the Grove ceased playing in the early 1970s due to difficulties getting matches.
As well as being accomplished players in Yorkshire, the Greenwood brothers also supported the England national teams with sponsorship and off-pitch wear through their Greenwood's Menswear business during several tours and World Championships.
Brian's memorial service was held at Woodhouse Grove School last week and England Lacrosse’s thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
