tributes pour in for former Sheffield United player and academy scout
A former Sheffield United player and academy talent scout has received numerous tributes.
Ernie Oliver, who died last week at the age of 73, was born in Sheffield and spent his whole career there.
During his football career, he played for the Blades in the 1960s, as well as Doncaster Rovers, Matlock Town, and Buxton United. He worked as a player, manager, and talent scout until becoming Doncaster Rovers’ Head of Academy Recruitment in 2017.
He was instrumental in the restoration of Doncaster Boys Club, allowing hundreds of young people the opportunity to represent the borough in school football competitions around the country.
Doncaster Schools Football Association paid respect, saying, “Very sad news.” The guy who held Doncaster Schools FA together in 2018 has died.
“Ernie was the driving force behind the revival of Doncaster Schoolboys; his tireless work behind the scenes will never be forgotten, and everyone at Doncaster Schools will be eternally grateful for his assistance.” Ernie, rest in peace.”
The club had disbanded around the year 2000, but Ernie and other devoted individuals were able to resurrect it in 2018, providing another generation of young people the opportunity to wear the team’s orange uniform.
Matlock Town, where he previously played and coached, also paid tribute to Ernie.
“He first came to Matlock during the 1967/68 season when he made a handful of appearances at left back following his release by Sheffield United,” a club plaque says. He later moved on to Scarborough.
“In September 1985, he took sole control of first team affairs, replacing Mick Wadsworth, who had been offered a lucrative position with the Football Association.”
“Ernie’s first game as manager was a 4-2 home win over Worksop Town.”
“The Gladiators finished seventh the following season, with fans encouraged that with the likes of Ian Helliwell, Ian Smith, John Sheppard, and Colin Kersley in an exciting attack, the Gladiators would mount a serious challenge for the title in 1987/88.”
“Unfortunately, those expectations were dashed, and Dave Pugh took over as manager in October 1987.”
“A polite and studious man who lived and breathed football, Ernie was also manager at Buxton as well as a talent scout at both Sheffield United and Doncaster Rovers, and had a good eye for spotting up and coming talent.”
“While Ernie left the club in 1987, he still had a great affection for Matlock Town and would often suggest players who he believed would do a good job for us,” Matlock Chief Executive stated.
“He is still a close friend of the club.” We were all shocked to learn of his death, and our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends.”
Prior to the club’s Saturday home match against Ashton United, a minute of applause was conducted in Ernie’s memory.
