Tributes and messages of condolences continue to pour in for a man, a gentleman, who went simply as Coach Beef, or ‘Beef’ to those who were closest to him.
Stephen Brittle was an integral part of the growth of the sport of American Football in the grand old city of Nottingham for many a year, and his loss leaves a chasm that will be difficult to fill.
A mentor, coach, and friend of many, it’ll probably never be questioned that Coach Beef, he bled green, he devoted that much of himself to the University’s American Football programme, as well as having a long association with both the Nottingham Hoods, and the Nottingham Caesars.
His association with the Hoods/Caesars along would encompass three, differing decades, the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s, and with his passing, he leaves behind a vast legacy that will not be forgotten.
As is expected, the UoNAF (University of Nottingham American Football), and others, will be looking at wears in which to honour ‘Beef,’ and, in their immediacy, will be dedicating their current, BUCS season, in his memory.
A statement from the University of Nottingham American Football Club said: “Coaches and students of Nottingham American Football have been deeply saddened by the passing of Coach Stephen Brittle.
“A pillar of the green and gold, Stephen Brittle was more than a coach to those he coached and coached alongside over his many years serving the programme in a tremendous manner.
“All involved with the programme are sharing and extending their deepest condolences to Stephen’s family.
“Stephen Brittle only ever played and coached in Nottingham. He was a giant, not just in the UoNAF family – but in the football community.
“He will be so sorely missed.”
Vanden Warner, Head Coach of the Nottingham Caesars, who often spoke highly of Beef, said: “There are certain names that are synonymous with the Nottingham Caesars, and Beef’s was certainly one of them.
“I had the pleasure of playing alongside, and then under him when he took up a coaching role at the Caesars. He helped mould me first as a player and then as a coach, and was always inspirational.
“He was always there to offer advice when needed, which I still use to this day.
“He has had a lasting impact on so many that have known him, and he will be sorely missed.”
Sean Endicott, Head Coach of the Nottingham Caesars Juniors added his condolences, saying: “It still feels unreal.
“I coached alongside Beef on Sunday and found out he passed Monday morning.
“There isn’t a soul in Nottingham that’s done more for offensive line play than Beef.
“He’s been part of the game for decades and will continue to be as his former teammates and players continue his legacy.
“Many of you know my family is from Wisconsin and that we love the Packers.
“As such, I’ve grown up cheering against the Bears, but some things are more important than rivalries. In honor of Beef, we’re sharing his favorite team’s colors with his famous #51.”
Whilst Mike Holden, Nottingham Caesars Defensive Coordinator, added: “I joined the Nottingham Caesars in 2008.
“Every couple of years I get the photo book from that season off the shelf and remember the players and coaches who welcomed me into the fold.
“Looking at it today was different with the terrible news that one of the legends of the team Stephen ‘Beef’ Brittle has passed away.
“He’d been a great player and was a fantastic coach who enabled so many players to take part in the sport we love.
“He knew the game inside out, but understood people even better – who needed an arm round the shoulder and who needed a kick up the arse.”
As Stephen ‘Beef’ Brittle was also a member of the Chicago Bears family, there is but one thing left to say really.
Bear Down…..
*Article provided by Peter Mann (Senior Correspondent).
*Main image @UONSport Brittle was a long serving coach of the University of Nottingham Football team.
