Tony Howcroft ( OS 1958 )
Tony ’ s affiliation with Sevenoaks began many years ago : he attended the school as a pupil when it was all boys . He contributed to the school ’ s sports programme from then . As a talented sportsman , he played at 1st team level in the school ’ s rugby , cricket , tennis and athletics teams . His passions for history and sport continued throughout his career and Tony acquired an extensive collection of both academic and sporting qualifications .
He has always had an avid enthusiasm for coaching and joined the school staff to develop a squash programme outside the normal curriculum time . It gave students for the first time the opportunity to be involved in private sessions . One of his many qualities was to use his skills and experience to the benefit of the students . He was
well respected by those students in his care . Through his expertise and innovative coaching as an England Squash coach he produced four Kent Cup winning boys ’ teams .
Outside the school , he played tennis for Clarendon TC , squash for Knole Park SC and rugby at Sevenoaks RFC in the 1st XV . Tony was a co-founder and secretary of the Sevenoaks Squash Academy , based originally in the Marley Sports Centre at Sevenoaks School . He was also instrumental in the development and move of the Clarendon TC to its new venue in the Paddock in Sevenoaks .
A gentleman , scholar and a true friend , Tony has given his time to developing the young for over 30 years . He was respected and well liked , and he leaves behind a legacy which will be hard to fill .
Pete Hill
SEVENOAKS SCHOOL 2019-2020 149