Adrian ‘Tudes’ Tudor had two great loves – his family and the Shamrocks.
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This according to Westbury Cricket Club president Michael Claxton, who has joined his fellow Shamrocks in paying tribute to a “true gentleman and family man”.
The 48-year-old father of two was died on Friday, following a two-car crash in central Launceston.
Claxton said Mr Tudor first arrived at the club about 20 years ago and went on to have an extraordinary influence on all of its members.
Gradually working his way into the A-grade team, Mr Tudor went on to mentor many younger players who later also progressed to the A-grade ranks.
He was a 2008-09 premiership player for third grade, and most recently served as a Shamrocks coach and mentor – something Claxton credits with the club’s back to back A-grade premierships.
“Tudes also volunteered on the committee, working tirelessly for the club. Tudes was a long time mate, fellow team member, true gentleman and family man,” he said.
“To Narelle, Ethan, Taylor, Jan and his extended family, we are all thinking of you.”
Mr Tudor was driving home after finishing a night shift at Coles about 2am on Friday, when his Hyundai station wagon was hit by a Ford sedan.
Tasmania Police allege the 22-year-old male driver of the sedan ran a red light at the intersection of Wellington and Frederick streets, before crashing into Mr Tudor’s car and fleeing the scene.
The driver of the sedan was allegedly travelling at more than 100km/h and was on a disqualified license.
Claxton said there was no shortage of Shamrock players with good words to say about Mr Tudor.
Westbury coach Matthew Battle:
“The loss of this champion has me feeling so hollow. My heart aches for everyone, especially his beautiful family who he loved more than anything. Without probably knowing, Tudes you were such a great role model for me and other young men. Your actions taught us to love what you are doing, do it well, work hard and to be a good person to all. You have shown me what it takes to be a great father and provider for your family, I hope I can follow in your footsteps. I will miss you mate, I will miss your hugs and “what’s up biggun” whenever we saw each other. I will miss just seeing you in the corner of the change rooms with a beer knowing that you are so proud of us all. Rest In Peace my friend, don’t forget to add the pepper.”
Dane Anderson:
“Where do we start. Today one of the great men left this world. So many tears shed. Words can’t describe the impact you’ve had on me as a person – an Incredible mentor, father figure and selflessness you displayed towards being a great human.”
Nathan Bester:
“I first met this fella at the NTCA 2 ground in October 2000 and he was one of the true gentleman then, and the thing was that never ever changed. No matter what the day, even a 30 plus degree day he would always wear the woollen vest. And on the field as honest a competitor as you could get, but a gentleman off it and a great family man. It also makes this memory very special that we all shared back in 2008-09. And the Sundays we spent together in the 3s as well as the 1s of a Saturday. You were one of nature’s true gentlemen. And I'm glad to have known you as a mate and friend for 17 years and the memories of this day along with so many others we will always cherish. This one in 2008-09 standing out among so many.”
Kieren Hume:
“I’m basically lost for words. I write this through tears of sadness that I won’t ever get to have another conversation with you again. Adrian Tudor was one of the great guys, a hard working family man who always put others before himself. He always made me feel better within myself, not only as a cricketer, but as a person. His love for the shamrocks is what I loved about him the most. His passion and determination to make everyone better was beyond what you would want out of a person, and there aren’t enough of those in the world.”
Sean Stevenson:
“Absolutely lost for words at the moment. Tudes you were a true gentleman, ultimate family man and someone who was loved and respected by everyone who was lucky enough to come across you. I was privileged to play cricket with you as a team mate, under you as captain and as a coach and the passion you had for the Shamrocks was undeniable. The lessons you taught me about cricket and life I will remember forever. The world is a poorer place for what has happened and I cherish the friendship we’ve had for the last 20 years. Rest easy Adrian Tudor love you mate.”