
Frank attended the presentation ceremony this week at Twickenham where beat of some stiff competition to scoop the prestigious award. One, i'm sure we all agree, is great recognition for 50 years service to the club and rugby union in general
Franks dedication to Rugby Union can not be overstated.
Frank Morgan originally cut his teeth playing for local rivals Orrell RUFC in mid 1960's before moving to Wigan Rugby Union, making his debut for Wigan 1st XV 29th March 1969 away at Kendal.
In the mid 1970's when Frank hung up his boots, he threw himself into developing the next generation of talent, coaching Colts Rugby Union at Wigan where he produced talent that included amongst others the late Mike Gregory, Joe Lydon and Andy Gregory who went on to forge careers at the top of Rugby League, and the likes of Dave Cusani and many others who gained international and county honours at Rugby Union. His Wigan team went on to win the Lancashire Colts cup – a unique achievement for an unfashionable Rugby Union Team!! In recognition of his achievements and as a result of the talent he produced by the early 1980's Frank was appointed Coach and selector for Lancashire Colts
Age however catches up with everyone and eventually Frank had to hang up his coaching manuals (which he placed next to his previously hung up boots). But his commitment to the sport did not stop there as he threw himself into supporting a third generation of players and supporters.
In 1991 Frank became chairman of Wigan RUFC and held this position until 2012. During his tenure he became the champion of junior rugby within the club and spearheaded the development of the new Junior Section – a section that grew under his tenure from one small team to its current position with over 200 children playing and training each week. The Junior section was awarded the 2017 Mini and Junior club of the year – and Frank played a major role in this award.
In honour of his service to the County, Frank was honoured with Lancashire County RFU Presidency 2003-2004 and the Lancashire Colts Cup is now named the 'Frank Morgan Cup' in his honour.
Despite his age Frank never misses a Senior or Junior fixture, where he observes the finer detail of the game through his trademark Binoculars – before passing on his match analysis to players and coaches alike.
Frank is now Chairman of Wigan Sports Council and volunteers every waking hour to promoting the sport of Rugby Union – to anyone that will listen. His vision and passion have ensured that Rugby Union is blossoming in the Rugby League heartlands – usurping the 'nay-sayers' who did not believe RugbyUnion could survive, never mind thrive, in the North West of England.
His love of the game has inspired three generations of players and his infectious personality has made him many friends across the rugby playing counties of UK, and beyond (including significant efforts to support the development of the game in countries like Malaysia). I'd go so far as to say – without Frank, Rugby Union in Wigan would still be a minority sport!
Franks has now been with the club (where is currently Director) for 50 glorious years and you can't mention the words Wigan Rugby Union to anyone without the reply – 'Is that Frank Morgan's club?" With the 50 years service as a milestone, this award could not come at a more appropriate time and could not be awarded to anyone more deserving.
County Honours:
● Presidency of Lancashire RU 2003-04, a post he had previously turned down on the grounds that his chosen occupation of Window Cleaner was not approprite to such a high office!
● Hon’ Life President of Lancs NW Colts League and founder member of the north west colts leagues in 1999/2000
– Chairman of Lancs Colts since 1977
● Lancs u19 cup renamed 'Frank Morgan Cup'
Club honours :
● Chairman 1991 2012,
● President (centenary year 2013)
Other Honours
● Currently Chairman of Wigan Sports Council.