The Howick Hornets Rugby League Club has been deeply saddened by the news of the death of Ross Holtom. Ross was a hugely popular life member who passed away suddenly on Thursday following a brief illness.
Ross was a massive rugby league fan, playing his junior football for the Pakuranga Jaguars and premier grade at the Ellerslie Eagles. His contribution to the Hornets was significant, coaching his son Matty from U6 restricted through to the U18 open grade.
Ross served on the Hornets committee in 2008 and was appointed chairman for a period in 2009. He went on to coach the Premier 1st grade for several years and was part of the wider coaching team that saw the club win its first-ever Fox Memorial in 2011. Ross was awarded club life membership in 2012.
“On behalf of the club we would like to offer our love and sincere condolences to his wife Angela, daughter Renae, son Matty and the Holtom family,” the Hornets posted on Facebook.
“We have been shocked and heartbroken by the news. He was a great mate and will be sorely missed.”