Tributes have today been pouring into Dragons RFC following the sad news of the passing of former Director Tony Brown OBE. Here are some of the messages from around the sporting globe...
So sad to hear of the passing of Mr Tony Brown he was so influential to many of us on and off the field . Condolences to the family Newport forever! Percy Montgomery
I am truly saddened to hear of the passing of Tony Brown. Newport’s greatest days in the modern professional era were a result of Tony’s work, generosity and ambition while never neglecting the honor and integrity of the game. In sport, championships and cups are what clubs, players and fans live for - it’s what we dream about. Thanks to Tony, the players and fans during my time at Rodney Parade challenged for championships and realised a dream in winning the Welsh Cup in 2001. Tony Brown was a generational man, and in our generation since the advent of professionalism, no one man had more impact and vested interest in Newport Rugby and Rodney Parade. It’s a sad day for all Newportonians, of which I am proudly included, we have lost not just a benefactor but a true friend and gentleman of Newport Rugby. The glory days may be gone but will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Tony, and thank you from the bottom of my heart. Rod Snow
Mr Brown, you were the epitome of everything that's good about Newport Rugby Club. You were truly the legend mentioned by so many and an honourable man who refused to give in to your illness, continuing to embrace life to the full. It was a pleasure and honour to have known you. RIP & may God Bless you. Adrian Garvey.
So sad to hear the passing of the great man, Tony Brown. His vision, passion, commitment and generosity not only to the business world, but that of Newport rugby, made the city proud and through Tony’s involvement fantastic memories were made - not only for the players but for the thousands of supporters. Thank you Mr. Brown, for all you have done. May you rest in peace. Jason Forster
From the day Tony picked us up at Heathrow in the Newport van to the day we left Newport he always had the players well being at heart. He once said to me his biggest achievement was that he had never had to make anyone redundant at Bisley and that the hardest thing for him was the high turnover of players. It was this rare quality that made him the man he was . Tony - thank you for everything you did for the players and supporters of Newport. You and Ian Mac can now meet up and talk about the past. RIP Tony. Gary Teichmann
What a great guy and a true gentleman - gave me me my first professional contract at 17 !! RIP Tony. Andy Powell
