Whitley Bay Ladies Hockey Club is mourning Sue Ross, a former player whose contribution to hockey extended from competitive matches to coaching and supporting younger athletes. The club announced that Ross had died following a long battle with cancer, paying tribute to her sporting achievements, generosity, and lasting friendships within the hockey community.
Ross joined the club at just 16 and became a valued member of its first team. Over the years, she earned respect not only for her commitment on the pitch but also for the encouragement and support she offered fellow players.
Remembered as “Aunty Sue”
For younger teammates, Ross became known affectionately as “Aunty Sue,” a nickname that reflected the supportive role she played within the club.
She helped foster a welcoming environment for players of different ages and experience levels. Her teammates remember someone who approached hockey with determination while making time to encourage those around her.
The club’s tribute emphasized that her influence went beyond her performances, with personal relationships and a strong team spirit forming an important part of her legacy.
Contributions Beyond Whitley Bay
Ross’s involvement in hockey extended beyond her own club. She coached junior players and supported Northumberland County Under-21s, helping younger athletes build their abilities and confidence.
She also represented Northumberland County and was selected for the Regional and National Civil Service hockey teams. These opportunities reflected her dedication to the sport and her continued involvement at different levels of competition.
Indoor hockey also featured prominently in her sporting life. As part of the Ravens mixed team, Ross took part in tournaments and tours and developed friendships with players connected to Tynemouth Hockey Club.
A Lasting Legacy in the Hockey Community
Those who played alongside Ross will remember her competitive approach, willingness to support teammates, and enthusiasm for the game. Her contribution reached across playing, coaching, and the friendships built through years of shared sporting experiences.
Whitley Bay Ladies Hockey Club described her as an important representative of the club and the wider sport. Her influence will remain part of the memories held by former teammates and the younger players she encouraged.
In recognition of her life, the club announced that its games that weekend would begin with a minute’s applause. The gesture was intended to bring the hockey community together in remembrance and acknowledge what Ross had given to the sport.
The club also extended condolences to her family and friends, recognizing the loss felt by those closest to her.
Obituary: Sue Ross was a former Whitley Bay Ladies Hockey Club player who also coached junior athletes, supported Northumberland County Under-21s, and represented Northumberland and Civil Service hockey teams.
Cause of Death: According to the club’s announcement, Ross died following a long battle with cancer. Further medical details were not provided.
Funeral Arrangements: No confirmed funeral or memorial service details were included in the supplied announcement. The club announced a minute’s applause before games that weekend in her memory.
Disclaimer: This article is based on the supplied tribute from the hockey club. No additional medical or funeral details have been independently established from the information provided.