[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 126 (Thursday, July 25, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E995-E996]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                HONORING THE LIFE OF MICKY STEELE-BODGER

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                          HON. GEORGE HOLDING

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 25, 2019

  Mr. HOLDING. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
lasting legacy of Micky Steele-Bodger, who passed away on May 9th at 
the age of 93. Micky was a larger than life figure in the Rugby world 
for over 6 decades. He is widely revered and beloved for his immense 
contribution to the game and the mentorship he provided to several 
generations of young players and administrators.
  Born on September 4, 1925 in Tamworth, England to Henry William and 
Kathrine nee Macdonald, Micky Steele-Bodger discovered his passion for 
Rugby at a young age.
  He rose to prominence on the pitch while attending Cambridge 
University. As the captain of the team, Micky twice played in the 
famous ``Varsity Match'' between Cambridge and Oxford--a tradition 
dating back to 1872. In the classroom, he followed in his Father's 
footsteps by pursuing a veterinary degree.
  Shortly after Cambridge, Micky earned himself a spot on the English 
national team--playing in 9 matches from 1946 to 1948. Although he had 
a relatively small frame and was only 5' 8", Micky's ruthless 
determination, versatility on the pitch, and deep knowledge of the game 
set him apart from many of his competitors.
  Unfortunately, his promising career came to an abrupt end due to a 
bad knee injury when he was only 24 years old. Despite no longer being 
able to compete on the pitch, Micky was not prepared to walk away from 
the game he loved. So he promptly transitioned to the administrative 
and coaching side of the sport, where he went on to make his most 
significant and lasting impact.
  In 1973, Micky was elected as President of the Rugby Football Union 
and in 1981 he became Chair of the International Rugby Board. Seven 
years later, in 1988, Micky was selected as the 6th President of 
Barbarian F.C., an illustrious Rugby club based in Britain. During his 
31 year tenure; he molded the club into one of Rugby's marquee 
organizations. He was regarded as an inspiration and mentor for 
countless young players, instilling in them the importance of class, 
sportsmanship, and work ethic.
  While Micky will go down in history as one of Rugby's most important 
and impactful figures, he will also be remembered as one of England's 
greatest clubmen.
  As the longtime Chairman and President of the East India Club, Micky 
mentored generations of young men. Micky introduced us to the pleasures 
and gentility of club life.
  I will always miss my friend, Micky. But I will also always remember 
him fondly every time I walk through the doors of the East India Club.

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