Steve Black, a former coach of the Newcastle Falcons, passes away at the age of 64.
Steve Black, the 64-year-old coach of the Newcastle Falcons, passed away.
Black worked in a number of capacities as a member of the Falcons coaching staff twice. He also had employment with Wales, the British and Irish Lions, Newcastle United, and Sunderland. Those who collaborated with him have shown him a great deal of respect. He worked under Kevin Keegan in the successful 1990s for Newcastle’s football squad.
“Blackie, as he was universally known, spent two spells on the club’s coaching staff – but he was so much more than that. The jovial Geordie was the spiritual heartbeat of the Falcons from the very early days of professionalism, helping steer Newcastle to promotion and then the Premiership title at the first attempt.
“Winning multiple domestic cups under his watch, Blackie’s unique motivational talents saw him succeeding with the Welsh national team and the British and Irish Lions, as well as with Newcastle United and Sunderland football clubs, and numerous other elite sportspeople.
“Blackie was a friend to all of us, a proud Geordie who knew the worth of people and how to inspire them, far more than his athletic accomplishments. We send our sincere sympathies to Blackie’s numerous friends and family. You won’t ever be overlooked.
On Sunday, Alan Shearer expressed his gratitude via Twitter, writing, “Sad news.” RIP, Blackie,” Michael Bridges, the former striker for Newcastle and Southampton, said, adding, “I’m very saddened by this terrible news. A kind man with time for everyone. taught me on Tynemouth Beach and took me under his wing in 1994 so I was ready for the start of my YTS deal with SunderlandAFC. A wonderful guy, husband, parent, and mentor has left our planet.
Terry McDermott, a former employee of Black’s at the football teams in Huddersfield and Newcastle, tweeted: “I’m devastated to learn that my best friend, B1ackie, has passed away.” Words cannot express what a great guy he was, and everyone who knew him will miss him dearly, ripblackie.
Danny Cipriani, a former back for England and Bath, called Black “the greatest” and said, “He was the most genuine kind man.” Brimming with inspiration and affection… Peace be with you.