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20 Dec 2024 | 4 min |

North Tawton RFC to host memorial game for Gary

This December, North Tawton RFC will host a memorial game for their former player, Gary Sizmur, who died aged 35 in September 2023.

Players from North Tawton will combine with those from Gary’s former club Okehampton RFC, as well as with members of Bridestowe Cricket Club for a mixed-team 15-a-side game.

The game on Saturday 28 December represents a celebration of his love of sport and is the second such game, with donations on the day going towards a charity of the family’s choosing.

An extremely versatile player, Gary was able to cover multiple positions including fly half, centre and full back, and helped North Tawton win promotion during his first season.

However, it was at fly half where Gary played his best rugby in the North Tawton jersey, scoring 30 tries and a total 440 points across 63 league games and several more cup fixtures.

Gary Sizmur memorial game

Club chair, James Miller, said: “As a person, Gary was a great friend to all, always having time for others and enjoying a well-earned beer with the team after a game. Who can forget him dressed as a cowboy at a team social, leading the team singing ‘The Mighty Mighty Tawton!’.

“A man that led by example on and off the pitch, Gary would be that player to pick the team up when it was struggling and get them back into the game.

“I’m sure I speak for all members of the club when I say you could turn to Gary for advice and he would make the time to help you. Generally, a top bloke.”

Gary’s family are still involved with the club and they attend games as fans, while Gary’s sister, Faie, is the team’s match-day physio.

“Being a small club we often regard players and those close to them as family,” said James. “Steve, Pam, Faie, Charlie, Zac and Reeva and always will be part of the club and will always have our support if needed.”

As well as the memorial matches, the club have held various fundraisers for charities such as Mind, which provides support to those suffering with mental health issues and also family members.

Money has also been raised for Pete’s Dragons, a charity that supports family and friends affected by suicide, while players from all three clubs have often come together to do charity walks, quizzes and more in aid of men’s mental health.

Gary Sizmur memorial game

James added: “The passing of Gary had a massive impact on all his family, friends and teammates.

“I can only speak for members of North Tawton but it has certainly made us more aware that despite looking as if you are ok, we need to go the extra mile and make sure we check in on one another regularly.

“There is a stigma for men and sharing with one another that you are struggling, feeling lost and being afraid to ask for help. We now do all we can to move past this stigma and make it known to all members of the team that we are here for one another. We owe it to Gary to be more supportive to those around us.”

If you need support, help is available. Either call 116 123 to speak to a Samaritan or follow this link for alternative ways of getting support: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/ 

Gary Sizmur memorial game