Gordon Pritchard

We are sorry to learn of the passing of former Huddersfield player, Gordon Pritchard, at the age of 70 on 17 May.

Gordon was one of many Welsh players who ‘came North’. He played Rugby Union for Cardiff and Newport before signing for Leeds in 1974.

His appearances at Leeds were limited to reserve fixtures but his Rugby League career took off when he moved to Bradford Northern.

Following a spell at Barrow, Gordon signed for Huddersfield in October 1978, making his debut in a 24-6 defeat against Wakefield Trinity on 29 October 1978.

Gordon’s main position was full back but he also appeared at centre and stand off and occasionally captained the claret and gold.

He made 74 appearances and scored 11 tries, his final appearance for the club being an 8-3 victory over Fulham on 19 April 1981.

Gordon also represented his country with two appearances against England ( in 1978 and 1981) and one against France ( in 1978).

Gordon returned to South Wales and was a founder member of the Cardiff Blue Dragons in 1981, where he made 81 appearances, scoring 18 tries and 2 drop goals.

He returned to Rugby Union, coaching Pontypool in 1988, then Tondu and Caerphilly.

Later Gordon supported the Caerphilly based, Aber Valley Wolves Rugby League team.

Our thoughts are with Gordon’s family and friends.