Squash Mourns the Passing of a Legend

It is a very sad occasion for everyone involved in the squash community throughout the country to learn that Butch Gifford passed away earlier this morning. 

Butch had not been well for quite a while but it is still a real shock to lose one of squash’s greatest characters, a man who was involved in virtually every facet of the game, for what seems a lifetime.

Whether it was coaching young kids, selecting representative teams or arguing for the good of the sport around the management tables at club, regional, New Zealand and even Oceania level, Butch left an indelible mark wherever he went during his odyssey that stretched over 50 years with our game. Something duly reflected with him being honoured with the Queens Service Medal only last week.  

Always innovative and never one to stand on ceremony he knew how to get things done in his own inimitable and effective style. His influence in the sport he loved reached far and wide, earning respect and admiration from those he came into contact with. He was also well known amongst other sporting codes and, I know, will be sadly missed by all those who knew him.

Our sympathies go out to his wife Ann and his family, hopefully comforted in the knowledge that Butch was, and will always be, held in the greatest regard by everyone.