Hindpool Tigers Chairman Graham Shaw Remembered By Readers.

Graham Shaw, the long serving chairman of Hindpool Tigers, has been remembered by readers following his death at the age of 44. 

Shaw dedicated much of his life to Hindpool Tigers, having first become involved with the club as a six year old player. Over the following decades, he took on several important roles including player, coach, captain and eventually chairman, becoming one of the most recognisable figures associated with the club.

He became chairman in 2014 and played a major role in developing the club both on and off the rugby league field. His contribution included helping establish the Masters team and supporting the development of youth players, many of whom later progressed into senior rugby.

Graham was particularly passionate about youth rugby and bringing people together. His influence extended beyond the playing field, with the club describing him as someone who helped turn Hindpool Tigers into a family and created opportunities for people of different ages and backgrounds to become involved.

During his 11 years as chairman, Shaw also helped the club become increasingly involved in the wider community. Hindpool Tigers highlighted his work organising fundraising events, with money raised for local and national charities including food banks, the Special Care Baby Unit and Make-A-Wish.

His contribution also extended to the development of women's and girls' rugby league in the local area. He helped establish Hindpool's girls' team, creating further opportunities for young people to become involved in the sport and helping strengthen the grassroots game around Barrow.

Shaw's dedication to the club was recognised across the wider rugby league community. Barrow Raiders described him as the driving force behind Hindpool Tigers and paid tribute to his extraordinary commitment to community rugby league.

His battle with illness had also brought the local sporting community together. After being diagnosed with cancer, supporters, rugby clubs and organisations across Barrow, Cumbria and Lancashire rallied around Graham and his family, helping raise funds towards his treatment.

A particularly emotional tribute took place before a Hindpool Tigers fixture against Millom in July. The match was moved to Hindpool because Graham was too unwell to travel, allowing him to attend what became a moving celebration of his contribution to the club.

Players formed a guard of honour as Graham was guided onto the field in his wheelchair, with a large crowd gathering to show their support. The occasion reflected the affection in which he was held by teammates, opponents, supporters and the wider rugby league community.

Tributes have continued to describe Shaw as a man who was “Hindpool to the bone”, reflecting the extraordinary connection he had with the club. His commitment spanned almost four decades and left a lasting influence on generations of players and families.

Beyond rugby league, Graham was also remembered as a family man and respected member of the local community. He leaves behind his wife Lauren and two sons, Harry and Bobby, who have received messages of support from people across the area.

For many people in Barrow and Furness, Graham Shaw's legacy will be closely connected with community, youth sport and Hindpool Tigers. His contribution helped shape the club into the organisation it is today and created memories that will remain with those who knew him.

His death has left a significant gap within the local rugby league community, but the work he carried out over decades is expected to continue influencing the club for years to come. Readers' tributes are another indication of the lasting impression he made on the people around him.

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