Tributes pour in for footballer Mike 'Raj' Rodman, 37
TRIBUTES have been flooding in for new dad Mike Rodman who died while playing football on Saturday.
The 37-year-old, known as 'Raj', was playing for Kingswood AFC reserves against local rivals Charfield on Saturday when he collapsed on the pitch. His girlfriend Lauren and five-month-old daughter Eva were watching the game.
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MUCH-LOVED: Mike 'Raj' Rodman with daughter Eva.
Tributes have been flooding in to social networking sites Facebook and Twitter.
James Blackwell, secretary at Kingswood AFC, said: "Still can't believe it. A sad, sad day and you will be missed by all."
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Nick Bishop wrote on Facebook: "So hard to see you just taken away like that my friend. For years you have been my friend and at times my absolute rock, I am so sorry I could not do more for you today, one thing I can promise you is that your daughter will grow up knowing what an amazing man and friend and dad you were, I promise you that.
"I will miss you my friend. I will always love you. Rest in peace brother."
His friend Tim Hodgson said: "The testament of a man is how many friends are prepared to call you their best friend. I am one of many. You were a source of comfort and friendship which will never be forgotten – your 'gift' Eva and your beautiful partner in life Lauren will be safe young man, of this you can be sure."
Ian Wakefield contacted us to pay tribute. He said: "I first met Mike when he was a smiley, cheeky nine-year-old chap and was part of my first experience in running Youth Team Football – Wotton Rovers U12s. A young talent which shone through with a ability to read the game well. I admire his attitude to life, work and football and will miss him sincerely. I can't believe we will not be exchanging our thoughts and shop at work."
Mike's employers at Renishaw said he was a popular member of staff.
A spokesman said: "He worked as a materials controller at our assembly facility in Woodchester, near Stroud and was very popular with his colleagues, as he was in the wider community. The mood yesterday at Woodchester was very sombre and many of his closest colleagues have been deeply affected by his death."
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