29/08/2026
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Wayne Fitchett, a founding coach of Mirfield Juniors and a much‑loved member of our club.
Wayne joined us at the very beginning in 2022 and played a huge part in shaping what Mirfield Juniors has become. From day one, he set standards that reflected who he was — committed, caring, and completely devoted to the players he worked with. Wayne was as committed to the children he coached as he was to his own, always giving his time, energy and passion to help them grow both on and off the pitch.
He was a caring and knowledgeable coach, and a complete football nut in the best possible way. Wayne never forgot a game, a score, who scored, who assisted — even who assisted the assist. His attention to detail wasn’t just impressive; it showed how deeply he cared about every player and every moment they shared on the pitch.
Wayne’s enthusiasm went far beyond matchdays. He would scout opposition teams and players, picking up small details he’d bring into training sessions to give his players an edge. He understood their needs emotionally, physically and technically, and had a rare ability to communicate in a way young players could truly absorb. He didn’t just coach football — he coached people.
To many of us, Wayne wasn’t just a coach. He was a friend. Someone who brought warmth, humour and dedication into every conversation and every session.
Wayne leaves behind a sport he loved, a club he helped build, and a reputation as a dedicated family man who gave everything to the game and the children he coached. Our thoughts are with his fiancée Charli, and his children Zak, Maisie and Keeley at this incredibly difficult time.
He will be greatly missed by everyone at Mirfield Juniors.
As a mark of respect all our teams will be observing a minutes applause for Wayne at our opening fixtures next weekend.
