Our club members were saddened to hear of the passing of Jimmy Boucher and convey our condolences to Jean, James, Kenny, Raymond and the family circle.
Jimmy came to our club from Ards in 1956 and made his Senior debut a year later. He played for all of the teams over many years giving of his enthusiasm for the game and his encouragement to all around him. This was particularly demonstrated in his work with the Boys’ team over many years. He kept the youth interested, many of them going on to play at the highest level in the game.
In 1984 at the club’s Annual Presentation of Awards he was honoured by the club for his loyalty and distinguished service and received a standing ovation from all present. He was our Club Treasurer from 1959 to 1963 but it was on the field of play that he picked up awards at all levels.
He won the 2nd XI Bowling award in three consecutive years in the 60’s, six 3rd XI awards from 1967 to 1984, including a magnificent 50 wickets in 1979 at an average of 10.4 and three 4th XI awards in the 80’s.
Clarence Hiles in a poetic vein gave a reflection of Jimmy in this piece.
SLOUCHER
Jimmy Boucher taught us,
At Comber Primary School,
You didn’t mess in his class,
That was the golden rule.
We did our sums and essays,
He was generous in his praise,
The lessons that he taught us,
Stood by us all our days.
Jimmy Boucher coached us,
In football and in cricket,
Two coats were used for goalposts,
And the rubbish bin the wicket.
He showed us how to play the game,
With spirit and with skill,
He taught us how to love our sport,
With no feeling of ill-will.
Jimmy Boucher’s cricket games,
Involved both girls and boys,
We had to use the playground
Because of all the noise.
He never ceased to tell us,
It was all about the spirit,
That’s why he gave us all a chance,
And treated us on merit.
Jimmy Boucher was part of us,
As we were growing up,
With North Down Boys and junior teams,
And in the Graham Cup.
He was a useful bowler,
A slinger in his prime,
He played the game the proper way,
Every single time.
Funeral arrangements:
Wednesday 13th at Clarke’s Funeral Home
Court St, Ards at 11am
