Our King Louis was the epitome of Blues

By Jon Couch

FONDLY REMEMBERED: Ware FC captain Louis Rose

WARE FC have led the tributes to club captain Louis Rose, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 35 following a long battle with cancer.

Defender Rose enjoyed a 13-year association with the Blues, over two spells, making over 200 appearances for the club, scoring 27 goals.

Along with teammate brother Leigh, he epitomised everything manager Paul Halsey wanted from his players, showing dedication on the pitch and community spirit off it.

Rose was first diagnosed with throat cancer in November 2023 but made an emotional return to action six months later, coming on as a substitute in a 2-0win over Kidlington.

“Proud moment, stepping back on the pitch after six months of hell,” he said on social media.

“During gruelling sessions of chemotherapy and radiotherapy I wasn’t sure if I’d ever play again but once treatment was over I was determined to get back out there.”

Sadly, though, a second diagnosis meant the battle wasn’t over.

Rose didn’t play at all last season but in a huge show of support from the club, he was appointed captain and he remained in that position throughout the Southern League Division One Central campaign.

“The club has lost its captain, a man who personified all that it meant to lead a side that was consistently successful in recent league seasons,” said club secretary Stephen King.

Rose leaves wife Hannah, three children Harper, Leo and Lebron, plus a mother, sister and brother Leigh.

He and Leigh both reached 200 first-team appearances for Ware in the same match – a 4-2 win over arch-rivals Hertford Town in April 2023.

Outside of football, Rose co-founded successful furniture company Sofa Club and, ever the professional, had outlined the arrangements he had made for its continuance of the business without him at the helm.

“Louis fought cancer three times with grit, determination and bravery,” Sofa Club said in a statement.

“The fight Louis showed was nothing short of incredible. He refused to give up and kept defying all odds – his mentality, courage and spirit were beyond inspiring and we’ve never seen strength like it.

“Louis leaves Sofa Club in the best possible hands, with a record-breaking year, and a dedicated team ready to take the business to the next level. We will continue his legacy, embody his determination and emulate his strength, because we know that is what he would want us to do.”

The football fraternity have come together to pay tribute to Rose.

Bedford Town boss Lee Bircham said: “Awful news. Thoughts with all Louis’s family and friends.”

And Ware’s league rivals Waltham Abbey added: “The club would like to send sincere commiserations to all the family and friends, and all at Ware FC and the football family, hearing the sad news that Louis has lost his fight against his illness. A great guy and opponent.”