Hull Ionians club legend: 50 seasons and still going
A player from Hull Ionians is entering his 50th consecutive season playing for his club.
Tim Mabbett, 65, has played for the club since he was 15. He played his first senior game at 17, played for the 1st XV from age 19 to 30, and has continued to play for the club ever since.
After playing for every senior team at the club, he is now a regular for the “mighty” Ramblers 3rd XV and a true club legend.
The game and the club have truly run in the family, with Tim’s children, James and Charlotte, both also having played for Hull Ionians.
Wonderful and fulfilling
After some 20 years of playing on Saturdays, Tim’s wife Karen suggested he ‘give something back,’ so he became the coach of his son James’s U6s team on Sundays and remained with them for a decade.
“I coached the same guys for ten years, from U6 through to U16, with Karen as team manager. These were great guys: they played some great rugby, and we had the absolute best of times.
“We were fortunate to play in finals at Twickenham twice and were invited to do a curtain-raiser at HQ before the 2000 England v Australia game. We were treated to Dan Luger scoring in the corner at the end to win the game!
“Coaching that team was the most wonderful and fulfilling chapter of my rugby life.
“Now in their thirties, many of these guys remain close friends. We communicate and socialise regularly, and I am honoured to often be invited to their stag parties, weddings, and other social occasions.
“Unfortunately, we lost our son James in 2015. His teammates, friends, and so many of the people at Hull Ionians showed us so much warmth, compassion, and support, for which we will be forever grateful.”
For the love of the game
Brad Willingham, now 31, shared his admiration for Tim.
Brad said: “Tim’s son James was my best mate and since he passed away, Tim has become one of my best mates.
“He epitomises community rugby. He’s in it for the love of the game, not the result. He just wants to have a good craic and enjoy a beer after with everyone.
“He’s played, coached, refereed, and supported Ionians his whole life. He’s a local legend but, more importantly, he’s a stand-up bloke.
“When Tim’s around, you know you’re going to be in for a good laugh because he can make games out of literally anything. He’s an absolute joker and a glorious one at that.”
Friendships that last a lifetime
Reflecting on his time at Ionians, Tim believes it’s the club and the people that have kept him playing all these years.
“I consider myself extremely fortunate to have played the game I love for 50 years at the fantastic Hull Ionians, and to have also reaped the rewards of coaching a great set of mini and junior players.
“Those who play rugby will understand that when you have taken the field and played alongside others, unique bonds and friendships are forged that can last a lifetime.
“The sheer competitive enjoyment of playing rugby, along with the camaraderie, fun, and the countless lasting memories and friendships made over the years has been second to none.”
And while Tim ponders whether he has one more season in him, his time at Hull Ionians stands as a testament to the lifelong bonds rugby can create.
