Mike lost his short battle against cancer at the weekend and will be sorely missed both at the club he served for half a century, and at Principality Stadium, where he worked initially as a Tour Guide, then as manager of the Tours and finally as part of the Security Staff.
His infectious smile, boundless enthusiasm for all things rugby and engaging personality made him the perfect ambassador for both the game he loved and the stadium. Tens of thousands of visitors to the home of Welsh rugby over the past 30 years benefitted from his knowledge and passion for everything to do with our national sport.
Former Wales and British & Irish Lions centre Tom Shanklin Tweeted his ownprivate tribute to Mike after hearing the news: “Such a lovely man, I use to love chatting to him around the stadium. Will be hugely missed.”
Mike first began giving tours to visitors at the old National Ground. When that was turned into the Millennium, and now Principality Stadium, his role grew and his wit and wisdom entertained and inspired even more people from around the world.
Mike’s love affair with Taffs Well began as a player and he went on to serve the club as Secretary and then Chairman. His proudest moment was when he joined the team at Principality Stadium for the 2016 WRU Bowl Final against Burry Port.
“Mike was hardworking and committed, humorous and friendly, generous and loyal, enthusiastic and eternally cheerful. He was a lovely man whose friendship was valued not only by his work colleagues, but by many in the rugby world,” said WRU chairman, Gareth Davies.
Very very sad to see this. Such a nice guy. Thoughts go out to all the family.
— Mike Phillips (@mikephillips009) September 13, 2020
“He had a unique ability to get his face into a photograph, but it was always a smiling face with a twinkle in his eye. He was one of Welsh rugby’s many unsung heroes and he will be sorely missed by everyone connected with the WRU and Principality Stadium.
“He was also a great supporter of the Charitable Trust and a friend to many of the injured players.”
Among many other tasks for which he volunteered, Mike acted as a Liaison Officer for incoming touring teams and was for a number of years the baggage man for the then Wales U21 team.
The whole of Welsh rugby sends its condolences to Mike’s wife, Mary, his family and his many, many friends across the world of rugby.
