The RFL is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Harry Jepson OBE.
Born in Hunslet in 1920, the 96-year-old’s first step into Rugby League was after the Second World War when he trained as a school teacher and was seconded to Bewerley Street School where he came under the wing of Headmaster Edgar Meeks, who was also Hunslet chairman.
Looking after various school teams, Jepson went on to become Secretary of Hunslet Schools Rugby League Association and Hunslet Rugby League Club amongst other roles before joining Leeds in the 1960s to work as Jack Myerscough’s right hand man.
Becoming Football Director at Leeds in the 80s, he was elected as one of the inaugural members of The RFL Board of Directors, which took over the strategic running of the sport from the RL Council, on which he was Leeds’s representative in 1983.
President of Leeds and a Mike Gregory Spirit of Rugby League Award winner, Jepson was a noted ambassador for the club and the sport. He was also Chairman of the Rugby League Conference, the competition which has spread the game throughout England, Scotland and Wales in the summer, the sides in the Premier Divisions contesting the Harry Jepson Trophy.
RFL Chief Executive, Nigel Wood said: “Harry Jepson was one of Rugby League’s national treasures.
“He had a lifelong passion for the sport and wonderful and vivid recollection of the great players and deeds of the past. He was a friend to everyone.
“Harry was warmly welcomed wherever in Rugby League circles, both here and overseas, representing the very best values that this sport possesses; honesty, integrity, modesty and humility.
“In addition to a long administrative career with Hunslet and subsequently Leeds, Harry also served on the very first RFL Board of Directors, conducting the business of sport with distinction and impartiality.
“A school teacher by profession, he launched the careers of many players, some of whom went on to be all time greats. He will be remembered fondly by all those he touched.”
State of Mind would like to pass on our sincere condolences to all Harry’s family and friends