David Brooks (rugby union)
David Kenneth Brooks (12 March 1924 – January 2002) was a rugby union player who played for Harlequin F.C. in Twickenham, Middlesex. He managed the British Lions on their 1968 tour to South Africa and presided the RFU for a short time from 1981 to 1982. He became life president of Harlequins Rugby Club in 1991.
"Wrecker", as he came to be known, led the Lions to South Africa in 1968 where they began their tour with 6 opening provincial wins. This, however, was not to last as the Springboks were ready for them and got 5 points past to win with a final score of 25-20. The team continued a season of provincial games where they claimed 15 wins in 16 matches.
David's youngest grandson Mark Tampin has played professional rugby for Rotherham Titans, Ealing Trailfinders and most recently joined Newcastle Falcons
References
- Thomas, Clem; Thomas, Greg (2005). The History of The British and Irish Lions. Mainstream Books. pp. 141–148. ISBN 1-84596-030-0.
- Daily Telegraph obituary