Robert Worboys

Tue Feb 02 2016

The Yorkshire Rams learned on Monday of the sad passing of our former player, Robert Worboys.

The talented wide receiver was a focal point of the Rams’ offence during his time with the club, exemplified by the 2013 season in which his 607 receiving yards and nine touchdowns both exceeded the output of all his team-mates combined.

Having also represented the Sheffield Sabres and Leeds Celtics, Rob later relocated to Edinburgh and joined the East Kilbride Pirates as well as coaching with the Edinburgh Napier Knights university team.

The Rams plan to honour Rob on gamedays next season by retiring his number 85 jersey.

Rob was warmly greeted by former team-mates when the Rams arrived for their game against the Pirates last season - and, inevitably, would score in the game, returning a miscued punt for a touchdown.

Rams Safety Chris Lawton led the tributes to his former team-mate, writing on Facebook: “RIP Rob Worboys. So sad - taken far too young.”

Wide receivers Chris Bicker and Spencer Whybrow also paid their respects, Bicker writing: “What a guy! Great team-mate, will be sadly missed.”

As Rob’s passing was marked by all his former teams, Whybrow added: “It’s wonderful to see so many nice things being said about such a good guy on and off the field.

“Rob Worboys, it was a pleasure to line up alongside you.”

Such was the esteem in which Rob was held in south Leeds that Jake Caines, the most recent Ram to wear number 85 but never a team-mate of Rob, wholeheartedly agreed with the decision that the jersey be vacated this year.

“After hearing about Rob, I thought it was only right that I change numbers this season” he said.

Our thoughts are with Rob’s family and friends and all at the Pirates. Rest in peace Rob, and thanks for the memories.