In Memory of Louis Rose

It was with deep sadness this week that we learned of the passing of former Hoddesdon Town Football Club captain Louis Rose, who sadly lost his long battle with illness.

Louis was a natural leader and an exceptional footballer, remembered by all at Lowfield not only for his talent on the pitch but for his warmth, humility, and strength of character off it. He joined the Lilywhites in the summer of 2016, when Paul Halsey arrived as first team manager from Hertford Town. Paul brought Louis with him — and immediately entrusted him with the captain’s armband, a responsibility Louis embraced with distinction.

Under his leadership, the side enjoyed a memorable season. The 2016/17 campaign saw the team finish seventh in the Spartan South Midlands Football League Premier Division — a strong showing — and record a club-high 93 league goals. The season’s crowning moment came with silverware: a 1–0 victory over Wembley FC in the SSMFL Premier Division Cup Final, played at Oxhey Jets Altham Way ground. Louis proudly lifted the trophy that night, pictured here with Paul Halsey — a moment that will live long in the memory of those who knew and played alongside him.

Making his debut on 13th August 2016, Louis made 70 appearances over two seasons with Club, 67 full and 3 as a sub. He also scored 21 goals, 14 in his first season and 7 in the second.

When Paul left the club to take over at Ware, Louis returned to Wodson Park alongside him and continued to serve the club with the same loyalty and determination that defined his career. Over two spells at Ware FC, he made more than 200 appearances — a testament to his consistency, commitment, and deep love of the game.

Louis’s brother, Leigh, also wore the Hoddesdon shirt during that time, and we are keeping him — along with Louis’s wife, Hannah, and their three children — firmly in our thoughts at this incredibly difficult time. We offer our sincerest condolences to Louis’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

In honour of Louis’s memory, our pre-season friendly against Ware FC at Lowfield on Tuesday 15th July will be dedicated to his life and legacy. With Paul Halsey still in charge at Ware, both clubs feel it would be fitting to come together and celebrate a player — and a person — who meant so much to both communities.

Further details of the evening will be shared in the coming days, but we invite all who knew Louis to join us as we remember a true Lilywhite.

Rest in peace, Louis. You will never be forgotten.