Free jacks mourn the loss of rugby pioneer, bill webb
We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bill Webb, the president and co-founder of the Toronto Arrows. Bill was a dedicated colleague, a key contributor to the Major League Rugby Board of Governors, and a great partner in growing the game in North America.
“Bill was a dear friend and partner. Kind, thoughtful, deeply committed to rugby in Canada, and just really the game and its success throughout North America. The first one to put his hand up to help others,” said Free Jacks co-Founder and CEO, Alex Magleby. “In fact, when we were announced as the newest MLR member on September 20th, 2018, Bill was immediately on the phone helping to arrange our first ever fixture, a very memorable match a month later with the Toronto Arrows in the great town of Halifax.”
Magleby notes, “I had the pleasure of working with Bill for many years on the MLR Board and various committees. A thoughtful and passionate leader, he was always willing to lend a helping hand. I will miss his sense of humor and his infectious enthusiasm.”
Bill’s contributions to rugby in Canada were immense. He was instrumental in the creation of the Toronto Arrows, and he played a key role in the growth of MLR. He was also a strong advocate for the sport at all levels, and he worked tirelessly to promote it to new audiences. His passion for growing the game was unmatched.
“Bill was a good man and a true pioneer of professional rugby in Canada. He has done a huge amount to bring professional rugby to Canada and grow the game across the country. People will be forever grateful for that. He’ll be missed and the whole Free Jacks family and myself send our condolences to his family and friends.” said Canadian International and Free Jack’s Forward, Josh Larsen.
Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was a true rugby pioneer, and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
Our thoughts are with Bill’s family and friends during this difficult time.
The Webb Family has conveyed that it is Bill’s wish that the Arrows will continue to flourish and contribute to rugby in Canada, and the entire organization will work to honor that wish and continue Bill’s indelible legacy.
In lieu of flowers, the Webb Family respectfully requests a donation be made in memory of Bill to the Toronto Inner-City Rugby Foundation (https://tirfrugby.ca/make-a-difference/donate/), the Canadian Cancer Society (https://cancer.ca/en/) or True Patriot Love (https://truepatriotlove.com/).
