Dave Brown, who has died of cancer at the age of 66, was one of the most well-known rugby figures on and off the pitch across Scotland.
The former Glasgow player, who won the Inter-District Championship in the company of such star names as Sandy Carmichael and Ian McLauchlin, took over as coach at Caledonia club Strathmore more than 20 years ago and transformed the whole attitude of the organisation while he ran a successful business, Rugby Plus, in Aberdeen.
Former Aberdeen Grammar coach, Kevin Wyness, was among those who have been left saddened by Mr Brown’s death last weekend.
He said: “Dave knew the game inside out and he knew everybody in the game. A five-minute purchase in his shop would often become a couple of hours chatting about the sport. He was just one of life’s top guys.
“He was successful in business, successful in coaching, and it’s so unfair that Scottish rugby has lost a truly great guy.
Strathmore said yesterday: “Dave first starting coaching Strathmore in the 97-98 season. He was ahead of his time, he challenged players to improve and he gave them more responsibility.
“Fitness levels were improved, dress codes changed, meeting times strictly enforced, and we became a lean, mean fighting machine.
“The league title was secured in his first season and a huge cup scalp was secured over Cartha Queen’s Park, which meant Strathie were in a national semi final.
“He would take no nonsense at training and there was the time where, whilst ripping into one player for under-performing, another player started sniggering.
“Dave’s response was: ‘What are you laughing for? You’re worse than him’.”
Stuart Gray, chairman of the Strathmore Rugby Club Community Trust, added: “We were saddened to hear of the passing of one of our founding trustees David Brown.
“Dave brought business, management and a huge amount of rugby experience to the trust.
“He was passionate about rugby and no less so about our vision and was a major driver in what we have achieved. He will be greatly missed.”
Respected coach George Breckenridge remembered the mixture of kinship and knowledge he had gained from Mr Brown.
He said: “I had the pleasure of being invited up to Strathmore RFC as a guest coach one pre season and setting up some drills and games for the players followed by a barbecue.
“Watching Dave coaching, you could see the enthusiasm and desire to make his players better but without ever forgetting the fun element in rugby.
“Enjoy your sport, he always used to say.”
Aberdeenshire RFC also paid tribute to Mr Brown, saying: “We join Strathmore in morning the loss of Dave who provided kit and equipment for both the men’s teams and Aberdeenshire Quines for many years.
“He could also be seen on the sidelines at Woodside with his wife, Sheila.
“Our thoughts go out to Sheila, the family and all those who are close to this great rugby gentleman.”
Mr Brown is survived by his wife and his children, Lindsey and Nicole.