The tragic news regarding the sudden death of Rob Rowan, the club’s Technical Director, has shocked us all and we extend our heart felt condolences to his wife and family, as well as to those people closest to him in his professional capacity at Brentford Football Club.

Rob was a much loved and highly respected man. Warm, friendly, loyal and genuine – somebody who was regarded as a footballing visionary with a long and successful career ahead of him. He had already played an instrumental part in the transformation of our club off the pitch and there was so much more to come.

Every time I saw Rob I was greeted with a big smile, followed by an equally big handshake – he was one of the good guys and I liked him from the first second I met him.

Billy and I spent the day with Rob eighteen months ago, to interview him about the new B Team set up and to record a feature for Beesotted. We were invited up to his flat in central Ealing, then went for breakfast to talk about the day ahead and record his thoughts. Rob was as interested in us as we were in him and we had a lot of fun chatting, as well as learning about the rationale behind some of the club’s decision making and plans for the future. You can listen to the feature by clicking the link below.

Before then, Rob had also spent a couple of days with my son at the training ground, as part of some work experience, and at the end, he took the time to come over and tell me how he’d done and explained what they’d been up to. I wasn’t expecting that at all, but there was a genuine sense of caring, which gave me an insight into the thorough, professional and personable nature he possessed.

There are many people who knew Rob so much better than I did, and I can only imagine the sense of shock and deep sadness you are experiencing right now. Twenty eight is no age at all – there was a whole lifetime ahead of a hugely talented young man who had reinvent himself after being forced to retire as a professional footballer. 

For Brentford, losing Rob was perhaps inevitable at some stage – Glasgow Rangers had already tried to tempt him away from Griffin Park – but every one of us is gutted to have it happen this way. Life can be so cruel and it should make us all appreciate every day – in a positive and progressive way.

God bless you Rob, rest in peace mate, you were a much loved and hugely respected guy and we won’t forget you at Brentford Football Club. Thank you! 

Dave Lane
@beesotted100

MOST READ CONTENT