Tributes Pour In for Roly Howard, World Record-Holding Marine AFC Boss

Football Pays Tribute to Roly Howard, Marine AFC Legend

Roly Howard, the legendary former manager of Marine AFC, has passed away aged 90, prompting heartfelt tributes from across the footballing world.

Howard, who managed Marine for 33 consecutive years from August 1972 to April 2005, set a Guinness World Record for being the longest-serving football manager in the world, overseeing an astonishing 1,975 matches.

A Career Like No Other

Based in Crosby, Merseyside, Howard’s connection to Marine AFC was deep and enduring. During his historic tenure, he:

• Won five league titles

• Lifted 15 cup competitions

• Managed the club through more than three decades of change

Beyond the dugout, Howard also served as the club’s groundsman, having joked that he took on the role after being told “They never sack the groundsman.” His work ethic, loyalty, and humility became hallmarks of Marine’s culture.

“He was a hero… for 33 years, he gave 100% of everything to Marine,” said Marine chairman Paul Leary, speaking to BBC Radio Merseyside.

Mentoring Future Stars

Howard also had a hand in shaping the careers of players like Jason McAteer, who would go on to play for Liverpool and the Republic of Ireland, having started his footballing journey in Marine’s youth ranks under Howard’s guidance.

The Man Behind the Record

Roly Howard managed Marine FC across three decades

In addition to football, Roly Howard led a humble life — working as a window cleaner, with clients including Sir Kenny Dalglish.

Ahead of his final game in 2005, the then 70-year-old reflected:

“When you’re doing it, it doesn’t feel like that length of time. But like life itself, when you reflect on it you wonder where the time has gone.”

Even as he stepped away from the game, Howard’s wit and wisdom stayed intact:

“The involvement and the craic with the players is what I’ll miss most. But I always said I would know the time is right — and it is.”

A Life Remembered

Before Saturday’s game, Marine AFC held a minute’s silence in honour of their club legend, as fans and players alike paid their respects to a man whose commitment to grassroots football spanned generations.

Though Roly Howard may have departed, his legacy in Merseyside football — and the wider non-league community — remains etched in history.

Rest in peace, Roly Howard – a true football original.