The legend that is Mike Gregory

Former British rugby captain Mike Gregory died on 19 November, 2007, at the age of 43, after losing a long battle with motor neurone disease. He is survived by wife Erica and two sons, Sam and Ben.

He spent his entire playing career at and earned 20 caps for his country, captaining to two Test series victories over .

After retiring from playing in 1996, he became an assistant coach at before serving as head coach at Swinton Lions and his hometown club Wigan Warriors, from where in 2004 he was forced to step down after being diagnosed with progressive muscular atrophy.

He also coached the Welsh national team at the 1995 World Cup and at the 2003 European Nations Cup. The highlight of his international career was an incredible 80-metre try in in 1988 which gave their first victory over in a decade.

Former team-mate and friend, head Coach Paul Cullen, said: "It's a very sad day for us all. I have lost a true friend. My thoughts are with his family and friends."

Former Wigan and centre Joe Lydon said: "Anyone who played with him or against him or watched him play would have respected Mike for his courage. He brought that same courage to his fight against an appalling illness. We are all lucky to have known him."

Rugby Football League executive chairman Richard Lewis added to the tributes, saying: "Mike was among the best players of his generation. He set a shining example with the character, bravery and determination that he showed on the field of play."

All donations made through this website will be added to the Mike Gregory Tribute Fund held by the MND Association. They will be used to provide care, advice and support to people living MND, their families and carers and to fund vital research into the causes, treatments and potential cures for the disease.

 

Thank you on behalf of Mike's family and friends, and everyone affected by MND