Raiders saddened by death of Brent Pope

Brent Pope in action for Romford Raiders in 2006-7
Brent Pope in action for Romford Raiders in 2006-7
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Everyone Active Raiders were among many clubs to be shocked by the death of Brent Pope this week.

Canadian Pope joined Romford Raiders as player-coach for the 2006-7 season, scoring two goals and nine assists in 19 appearances in the English Premier League and picking up 94 penalty minutes.

Prior to that, he had spent seven seasons playing in the British Superleague with Cardiff Devils, Nottingham Panthers, London Knights, London Racers and Basingstoke, two seasons in the British National League with Solihull MK Kings and Hull Stingrays and a year with Sheffield Scimitars in the EPL.

He also represented Great Britain in two World Championship campaigns in Croatia and Norway, playing eight games and, following his time at Rom Valley Way, returned to Wales to act as assistant coach, player-assistant coach, general manager and director of hockey at Cardiff.

Pope went on to enjoy a career in sports broadcasting, but was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year and passed away aged 49, leaving wife Fegie Ann and two young children.

A club statement on Twitter said: "Raiders are very saddened to learn of the passing of former player/coach Brent Pope, our condolences go out to all Brent's family and friends. RIP Brent."

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