Shenfield AFC Originals, 1985 (Steve Hudson, Goalkeeper)
It is with great sadness that the club must announce the passing of one of Shenfield AFC’s all-time legends. Steve Hudson passed away on the Wednesday 27 July 2022, after a short illness.
Steve played 347 games in goal for Shenfield and, as he continually reminded us, scored 2 goals! He still holds the Club Record for most First Team starts at 278.
He was an integral member of the team of 1997/98 whom swept the board winning all 3 trophies (Mid Essex Premier Division, League Cup and Knock-out Cup). He played in the very first competitive Shenfield fixture way back in 1985 and continued until 2004, when he and his much-loved family moved to Tokyo to continue a highly successful career in the financial services industry. This was the first of two stints in Tokyo where he enjoyed great success.
Steve was well-liked, hugely respected and possessed a razor-sharp wit. It would be fair to say that he did not suffer fools gladly!
Many of us will have our own amusing tales to regale of Steve, both on and off the pitch. One of my personal favourites was when he and I arrived far too early for a home fixture (during the treble winning season!) at The Drive in Warley. Steve suggested we take some refreshment at a nearby pub. I popped to the Gents and assumed that on return there would be a hydrating drink of some description. Oh no. Steve bought his usual pint of cider (his favourite tipple) and a beer for me. I remonstrated but he insisted that “a couple of pints won’t do any harm”. Suffice to say I had a shocking first half. Half time arrived and the then manager, Mr Bob Keeys, expressed exasperation at the teams (and my) performance, to which Steve responded by stating with a dead pan face “Canters, you’re having a shocker! Have you been drinking!” That was Steve…
Steve will be sorely missed by friends and family alike. He leaves a mother, Linda, and sister, Wendy; a son, Michael; two daughters, Lucy and Annie, and their mother, Frances; a first grandchild, Grace, and Steve will unfortunately miss the arrival of his second granddaughter, due in September.
Details of the funeral can be found here: https://www.funeralguide.co.uk/obituaries/102530. All are welcome; please RSVP via the page. Please contact Mike Hudson with any queries: 07531 119468