Rev Mike Pusey ( 1934 – 2024 )
Sports Chaplaincy UK were deeply saddened to hear of the passing away on Saturday 10th August of Rev Mike Pusey, the longstanding Chaplain of Aldershot FC; Mike had just celebrated his 90th birthday.
Mike Pusey was a visionary and pioneer, becoming one of the first football chaplains in the country in the early 1970’s. He was involved initially for 20 years until Aldershot FC folded but was integral again as the phoenix club progressed from the Isthmian Division 3 back up to the Football League. He finally retired as Chaplain in 2022, celebrating 50 years in post.
The club tribute sums Mike up so well
Mike served the role as Club Chaplain impeccably and was a wonderful ambassador throughout. Whenever you were in Mike’s company it was always calming. You left his presence feeling far more positive and upbeat. He had a soothing charisma about him.
He never uttered a cross word about anybody and was hugely popular across every faction of our football club. The most dignified and gracious individual ever to be associated with football in Aldershot.
He was always willingly available for players and staff and, whilst of course, he had Christian beliefs, he was never one to be forceful in his views. More a lending ear, a counsellor, a friendly conversation, just being a support mechanism but with such discretion and always in confidence too. A huge talent. Always impartial but always to help. A football club can become a fractious environment especially during the difficult periods. Never in Mike’s presence. His demeanour was a huge asset. A phenomenal talent to put everybody at ease. He was immense.
Beyond Aldershot Town FC and church pastoral ministry Mike was always a great proponent of Sports Chaplaincy UK and mentored and encouraged many other chaplains in their role. This was recognised when he received a lifetime contribution award from SCUK in 2014.
Sports Chaplaincy UK extends our deepest sympathies to Mike’s family and friends at this sad time. We pray that his ongoing legacy and example will be a comfort and also rejoice that he will now be receiving the ultimate accolade and ‘well done good and faithful servant’ from his Lord.
RIP Mike Pusey