Matt Beard’s funeral was held last Friday at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. More than 600 people came to mourn the beloved leader. The tragic death of the former manager of the Liverpool women’s football team last September at the age of 47. His passing was felt tremendously by the entire football community and everyone who was close to him.
The mood quickly escalated to one of emotion, as attendees experienced the raw and real moments that defined the service. Matt Beard’s coffin, covered with two Liverpool scarves, procession into the cathedral. Players lined up on either side of the memorial’s central aisle to give emotional tributes as it moved. Most of those present had tears in their eyes. They celebrated the life of a man who devoted himself to the service of football and family.
Mark Beard, Matt’s brother, delivered a heartfelt eulogy that emphasized the importance of compassion and thoughtfulness in light of his brother’s passing. Most importantly, he encouraged attendees to really ponder where they are in their own lives and in their relationships.
“Please, please, please let Matt’s passing be a lesson to us all. We’re all human, so be more thoughtful. He didn’t deserve to feel like he did.” – Mark Beard
Mark Beard went on to relate that outside of football, Matt’s greatest love was his family. His impact on the sport is perhaps even more remarkable. He took the Liverpool women’s team to consecutive Women’s Super League trophies and made an indelible mark on a generation of players and fans.
Tributes right from the higher football community flowed in after his passing. During a recent Liverpool Women’s League Cup tie against Sunderland, fans sang “Matt Beard’s mighty Reds” in the 13th and 14th minutes as a mark of respect for their beloved coach. The service included well-loved British hymns such as “Jerusalem” and “Abide With Me.” It all led up to an even more emotional playing of “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
High-ranking members of the football establishment were in attendance for Romero’s funeral. Other big names included ACE Football’s Amy Canavan, Casey Stoney, Lianne Sanderson, Fara Williams, our very own Olivia Smith and Taylor Hinds, as well as former Liverpool player Ian Rush. Their presence was a testament to the profound relationships Matt Beard fostered during his remarkable career.
Mark Beard praised his brother for his ability to uplift those around him, stating, “He made everyone he came across a better person.” He did this, to great artistic effect, by expressing pride in Matt’s sporting achievements, while highlighting the human relationships that were what really counted.
“I’ve never seen a team as incredible as them.” – Mark Beard
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