As has been reported in other threads Leigh Centurions has lost quite a few loyal fans and stalwarts over the last few weeks and condolences go to all the families in these sad times.
Another lifelong supporter "Tony Pytlasinski" sadly added to the numbers this week. RIP mate, you will be missed.




However, this post is about Andy. I contacted him quite a few weeks ago when Tony was first diagnosed with terminal cancer. Tony had put his name on the sponsored shirt and was looking forward to the coming season, when he was hit with the devastating news. We wer'nt sure how long Tony had so I asked Andy if Tony could at least have a sneak preview of a shirt before the launch and this is where the story really begins.

Even though Andy hadn't a clue who Tony was and is obviously a very busy man he went way beyond what I was honestly expecting from him. He visited Tony in Hope hospital with the yet unreleased shirt design, this unexpected visit lifted Tony more than any drugs could have and was a great gesture from Andy. It didn't just stop there Andy has constantly enquired about Tonys health and even on a what must be a very hectic schedule visited Tony on Christmas eve of all times.

Tony passed away last week without getting the chance to thank Andy for everything he's done (we were hoping to see him at the Wigan game) so this praise comes from his family instead.

Andy.......From being a complete stranger who we only knew as being a new board member doing a great job for Leigh Centurions, you have truly tapped into the new spirit of the whole ethos. LEIGH CENTURIONS has become more than just a rugby team and the sound-bites like "BeLeigh've" and "We're all in it together" really do have credit. Im sure Andy won't feel comfortable with this praise and I know he'd have liked to have kept it quiet, but it has to be said.

When this new BOM came in, it has had quite a positive effect on the club. It has tried to reach out to the community and there are many GREAT things coming along. Andy's gestures went way beyond his role at the club but is just another example of how things are going in "THE FAMILY" of Leigh Centurions.

I know Andy to be a very humble guy and I don't think praise sits comfortably on his shoulders. It's a mark of the genuine, caring guy he is that he went what you call 'above and beyond' his role. Andy is a Leyther through and through and when someone connected with the club hurts, he hurts too. Keep up the great work you are doing both in front of house and behind the scenes Andy. Condolences to Tonys family and friends also.

It is praise well deserved.

Don't know that name but RIP Tony
This really has been a bad month

I've not really been following the club behind the scenes until recently when I joined the message board but every time I've seen something exciting posted about the club I've seen the name Andy Mazey somewhere involved. I've never had the pleasure of meeting him but I join in the praising of a man who seems to be a massive part in this club becoming a new power in this fantastic game. Well done sir

Totaly agree Reffy.

First of all Condolences to Tony's Family and friends. RIP Tony.

Agree with everything that's been said about Andy I have not had the pleasure of meeting him yet, maybe this season some time though, and will look forward to shaking his hand and thanking him and the other BOD for all the hard work they have put in for this great club of ours.

RIP Tony, he was my rugby coach from U7's to U14's (ish) will be sadly missed, some great memories of rugby tours, New Years Eve parties and house parties.

I admit I stole this description of Tony off a mate, but never a truer word - "Awesome bloke, terrible referee".

My condolences go out to Tony's family and friends also.
I'm sure he will be watching the Wigan game from up high.
Another sad loss.
RIP Tony.

Always sad to hear of the passing of any Leyther but the opening post brought a lump to my throat.

Andy you should be one proud man.

Really good to hear of things like this...all adds to the community feel that is building!

First up condolences to Tonys friends and family, really sorry to hear of such bad news.

Secondly what a brilliant gesture by the club and Andy Mazey to take time out to (no doubt) bring a smile to a fan at what was clearly a terrible time.
Its things like this that mean a heck of a lot and determine what kind of club people follow.
For me those kind of actions only underline that our club is getting it right and eventually we will get what we deserve which is probably a fitting tribute for all of those fans we all knew who unfortunately won't be around to see it.

Sad to hear of this tragic loss, and my condolences to the family.

As for Andy and his fellow directors, another huge step to generating a true community club.

Sorry to hear the sad news about Tony our thoughts & prayers are with his family & close friends... Regarding Andy he,s a really nice fella who has time for everyone I have to admit Leigh Centurions at the present time is a nice place to be its a great pity that so many wonderful Leigh fans have passed away this past 12 months or so

Does anyone know the details of Tony's funeral, please? I would like to attend the service.

PM'd you

You gave me time and place but not the day, please could you let me know the day.

Doooohhh !Sorry 'bout that. It's this Friday.

So is Liam daltons ask walt mooney

Still more sad news - loss of another Leyther.

Hadn't seen Tony P for years but knew him well when we were kids, really sorry to hear he's departed.

As for Andy Mazey, I agree with all that's been said - top man.

I was today privileged to be invited to pay my respects to Tony and was honoured to attend his funeral on two levels. Firstly as a club director to represent Leigh Centurions the club Tony loved. Secondly as a friend who through sad circumstances had met and lost a great friend in a very short space of time.

I'm truly humbled by the kind words of Steven (HH) the OP and slightly embarrassed if I'm honest as I think it's fair to say I initially did what I thought was the right thing to do as a person after being contacted and told about Tonys situation. What happened next really touched me as I met some of the nicest people I've ever had the privilege to meet and I became emotionally attached to Tony and his family to a point were I was hoping and praying he would just be able to make the Wigan game so he could see his team in its new found glory.

When I was with him on Xmas eve for only the second time I hoped it was not to be the last and the time passed so quickly as we sat and talked for a while with Tony wearing his new Leigh shirt talking so passionately about Leigh Centurions, RL and Rugby generally and I felt like I'd known him for many many years and did not in the slightest feel uncomfortable in his company. His wife and two lads (his eldest Andrew I actually went to school with but didn't realise till he walked into the room on Xmas eve) along with the rest of his family and friends did him proud today and he was obviously a popular man by the numbers that turned out to honour him.

The privilege and honour was all mine and to have had the chance to meet and to have known Tony and his family is something in truly grateful for and we will be staying in contact. I will never forget him.

Rest in Peace Tony, Goodnight and God Bless.


Andy Mazey.

RIP Tony.

This thread made me cry.

Great stuff, Andy - shows what true leythers are like.
Condolences to Tony's family

It was a great send off and many turned up to pay respect to Tony. A few of us already knew the great things coming from the club but most only thought that Leigh (the town) had rugby club and that was as far as it went.
Andy's presence at the "wake" opened quite a few eyes and even the non rugby crowd were touched by the gesture. The new found efforts of the club to reach out to the community is getting noticed by a wider spread of people than ever.

Thanks again Andy.

You were not the only one Mish