Deaths on February 6

Walter Crickmer, English footballer and manager (b. 1900)

Walter Raymond Crickmer (1900 – 6 February 1958) was a pivotal figure in the history of English football, primarily renowned for his extensive and dedicated service as both a club secretary and interim manager for Manchester United Football Club. His remarkable tenure, spanning over three decades, saw him play a crucial role in shaping the club's administrative structure and, most significantly, its foundational philosophy of nurturing homegrown talent, a philosophy that continues to define the club.

Early Career and Extensive Tenure as Club Secretary

Crickmer embarked on his distinguished career with Manchester United in 1926, assuming the vital position of club secretary. This role, far more comprehensive in its scope during that era than today, encompassed a wide array of responsibilities. It included managing club finances, overseeing player registrations, arranging fixtures, coordinating travel logistics for the team, and acting as a key liaison between the board, management, and players. His appointment came at a particularly challenging period for the club, which was grappling with significant financial difficulties that threatened its very existence, making his administrative skills all the more crucial.

Interim Managerial Roles Amidst Club Crises

Demonstrating his unwavering commitment and versatility, Crickmer twice stepped into the managerial hot seat during critical junctures for Manchester United, showcasing his adaptability beyond administrative duties. His first spell as manager ran from 1 April 1931 to 1 June 1932. This period was notably turbulent, as the club faced severe financial distress, almost leading to bankruptcy before being rescued by the timely intervention of local businessman James W. Gibson. Crickmer's leadership during this precarious time helped to stabilize the team on the pitch.

He again took on managerial responsibility from 1 August 1937 to 1 February 1945. This second term was profoundly impacted by the outbreak of World War II, which led to the suspension of professional football leagues in England from 1939 to 1946. During these challenging war years, Crickmer was instrumental in keeping the club operational, managing wartime fixtures, and maintaining the squad amidst the national crisis, a testament to his administrative acumen and profound dedication to Manchester United.

The Enduring Legacy: Founding Manchester United's Youth Development System

Perhaps Walter Crickmer's most profound and lasting contribution to Manchester United was his instrumental role in establishing the club's renowned youth development system. Working in close collaboration with the visionary club owner, James W. Gibson, who had famously rescued Manchester United from financial collapse in 1931, Crickmer helped to institute a groundbreaking framework for identifying, recruiting, and nurturing young footballing talent from a remarkably early age. This pioneering initiative, which involved extensive scouting networks and dedicated coaching for young players, laid the essential groundwork for the club's future successes. It was this very system that would later famously produce the legendary "Busby Babes" under the stewardship of Sir Matt Busby, a testament to the foresight and dedication of Crickmer and Gibson in building a sustainable pipeline of homegrown stars. This emphasis on developing talent from within remains a core tenet of Manchester United's identity and philosophy to this day, distinguishing the club's approach.

A Tragic End: The Munich Air Disaster

After an remarkable 32 years of continuous and dedicated service as Manchester United's club secretary, Walter Crickmer's life was tragically cut short on 6 February 1958. He was one of the 23 victims of the devastating Munich Air Disaster, a catastrophic plane crash that claimed the lives of eight Manchester United players, famously known as the "Busby Babes," along with several club staff members, journalists, and other passengers. The tragedy occurred as the team was returning from a European Cup match in Belgrade. His death was a significant and deeply felt loss to the club, marking the end of an era of unparalleled dedication and administrative excellence. Walter Crickmer is interred at Stretford Cemetery, serving as a lasting resting place for a true servant of Manchester United Football Club.

Personal Life

Walter Crickmer was married to Nellie Robertson in 1921, a union that lasted for 37 years until his untimely death in 1958. Nellie outlived him by nine years, passing away in 1967. They had one daughter, Beryl, who was born in 1921, the same year her parents married, marking the beginning of their family life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Walter Raymond Crickmer

Who was Walter Raymond Crickmer and what was his primary role at Manchester United?

Walter Raymond Crickmer was a prominent English football administrator who served Manchester United as its long-serving club secretary for 32 years. He also took on interim managerial responsibilities twice during periods of club crisis.

When did Walter Crickmer begin his service with Manchester United?

Walter Crickmer joined Manchester United in 1926, assuming the pivotal position of club secretary at a time when the club faced significant financial challenges.

What is considered Walter Crickmer's most significant contribution to Manchester United?

Walter Crickmer's most significant contribution was his instrumental role, alongside club owner James W. Gibson, in instituting and developing Manchester United's foundational youth development system, which famously nurtured talents like the "Busby Babes" and remains a core club philosophy.

What role did Walter Crickmer play for the club during World War II?

During his second managerial stint from 1937 to 1945, which coincided with World War II, Walter Crickmer was crucial in keeping Manchester United operational. He managed wartime fixtures and maintained the club's structure during the suspension of official league football, ensuring the club's continuity.

How did Walter Crickmer's life end?

Walter Crickmer tragically died on 6 February 1958, as one of the 23 victims of the devastating Munich Air Disaster, a catastrophic plane crash involving Manchester United players and staff returning from a European Cup match.