STARS paid tribute to former Newport RFC and Dragons benefactor Tony Brown after he died at the age of 86, while the Black and Ambers held a minute’s silence for their hall of fame inductee.
Newport signed a raft of stellar players, won the Welsh Cup in 2001, played in front of some bumper crowds and enjoyed some memorable European victories before the regional rugby era.
After selling their historic home to the Welsh Rugby Union as part of the deal that saw the Welsh Rugby Union take over the Dragons, the club now play most of their games at Spytty Park.
a minutes’ silence to pay tribute to Tony Brown who died today
— Ioan Dyer (@Ioan_Dyer) April 4, 2023
Over the years, he made a huge contribution to Newport rugby @NewportRFC v @CarmQuinsRFC@IndigoPrem pic.twitter.com/6OYfobtlkf
They held a minute’s silence for Brown, who was inducted into Newport’s hall of fame in 2012, before their 52-17 hammering of Carmarthen Quins at that ground and will return to Rodney Parade on Saturday to host Merthyr in their bid for the Premiership play-offs.
Star prop Rod Snow, who made 190 appearances for the Black and Ambers and 41 for the Dragons, hailed Brown.
“Newport’s greatest days in the modern professional era were a result of Tony’s work, generosity and ambition while never neglecting the honour and integrity of the game,” said the Canada legend.
“In sport, championships and cups are what clubs, players and fans live for - it’s what we dream about.
“Thanks to Tony, the players and fans during my time at Rodney Parade challenged for championships and realised a dream in winning the Welsh Cup in 2001.
“Tony Brown was a generational man, and in our generation since the advent of professionalism, no one man had more impact and vested interest in Newport Rugby and Rodney Parade.
“It’s a sad day for all Newportonians, of which I am proudly included, we have lost not just a benefactor but a true friend and gentleman of Newport Rugby. The glory days may be gone but will never be forgotten.”
Simon Raiwalui won the cup in 2001 and left for Saracens two years later at the start of the regional rugby era.
The former lock, who will lead Fiji at the World Cup this year, said: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Tony Brown, a wonderful man who was fiercely loyal to his club, players and staff.
"As a player you could not of had a better owner/boss/leader."
Brown tempted Percy Montgomery to Newport in 2002 with the Springboks back going on to win 17 appearances for Newport and 38 for the Dragons.
“He was so influential to many of us on and off the field,” said the 2007 World Cup winner. “Condolences to the family, Newport forever!”
“Mr Brown, you were the epitome of everything that's good about Newport Rugby Club,” said former Springboks prop Adrian Garvey, who spent three seasons at Rodney Parade.
“You were truly the legend mentioned by so many and an honourable man who refused to give in to your illness, continuing to embrace life to the full. It was a pleasure and honour to have known you.”
“What a gentleman, such sad news, RIP Tony,” said former Newport and Dragons great Jason Forster.
Former Wales, Lions and Newport back row forward Andy Powell said: “What a great guy and a true gentleman, gave me my first professional contract at 17.”
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