Leeds Tykes is saddened to report the death of Monica Pickersgill on 28 February 2026, at her residential home in Wakefield.
Monica was one of our most staunch and avid supporters of the Tykes for over 20 years and a member of our Executive Club during our time at Headingley and at West Park Leeds. She would be present at all home games and many away games, and when she could no longer attend, she requested reports on the games and on her favourite players.
Monica also particularly enjoyed travelling to away games supporting the club in the Premiership and internationally and was much loved wherever she went. Many of the conversations with her recalled famous games, with a snowstorm in Bucharest, a close victory in Perpignan, the Powergen Cup and the win at Bath shortly after, all featuring strongly.
She was a direct and forthright character who provided helpful and supportive advice to officials and players alike, always with the best of intentions. Her sharp mind, quick wit and dry humour enriched those interactions to maximum effect!
She also had significant sporting experience as a distinguished player for Wakefield and Yorkshire Hockey, and played a leading role in delivering the merger between England Men’s and Women’s hockey She became President of the English Hockey Association in 1997.
She loved all sports, and conversations with Monica ranged from rugby and hockey to cricket, athletics, and beyond. What a wonderful woman to spend time with!
Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this sad time.