Sadness over passing of Athlone Town legend Dougie Wood
The late Dougie Wood, a sporting figure widely mourned in Derry earlier this month, is also fondly remembered locally as a prominent former Athlone Town player and indeed manager with the club.
Although Wood will always be remembered as a successful Derry City captain, the Scotland native also had two spells with Athlone Town in the 1970s.
Wood, who could play in defence or midfield, was part of the Athlone Town squad that faced AC Milan in the famous UEFA Cup matches in 1975.
In an interview with the Westmeath Independent a few years ago, former Athlone Town players Pauric Nicholson and Cyril Barnicle both praised Wood’s ability to anticipate the play and said the Scot possessed “a great football brain”.
Wood also had a spell as Shamrock Rovers manager.
In paying tribute to Wood, Derry City FC said it was “deeply saddened” to learn of the death of Dougie at the age of 82.
“The Scottish defensive midfielder arrived at the Brandywell in 1961 as a fresh-faced 21-year-old and was a key member of the teams that won the Irish Cup in 1963/64 and the Irish League the following season.
“Dougie left the club briefly in 1967, but the lure of the city brought him back to Derry the following year,” said the tribute from the club.
“He stayed until that fateful 1972 season before taking on a player-manager role at Athlone Town.
“Brief spells at Sligo Rovers and Shelbourne followed - the latter where he played alongside former Celtic great Jimmy Johnstone for a short time.
“Dougie retired from the game in 1978 having played for 11 seasons at the Brandywell where he will always be remembered as a Derry City legend,” the tribute continued.
Derry City extended deepest sympathies to Mr Wood’s family circle at the time of his passing. Dougie Wood died peacefully at home in his residence in Lifford, Co. Donegal. Beloved partner of Anne and loving father of Alison, Emma and the late Stephanie, and beloved husband of the late Ursula, the deceased was a dear bother of Irene and dear stepfather of Jason. A much loved grandfather, father-in-law, brother-in-law and friend.
His Requiem Mass was celebrated at Saint Columba’s Church, Longtower, Derry on June 6, followed by private cremation. May he rest in peace.