League Football Education has been deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Notts County Education Officer Jim King at the age of 76.
A popular figure on both sides of the Trent, King had spent many years in a similar position at Nottingham Forest before retiring from his role at the City Ground earlier this season.
For over two decades he devoted himself to helping young players develop their skills away from the pitch.
In that time he worked with the likes of Michael Dawson, David Prutton, Jermaine Jenas, Andy Reid, Craig Westcarr, and Ben Fairclough
Reid who developed a close bond with King said:
“Jim was one of the first people I met when I joined Forest as a 15 year-old and we remained close friends.”
“He was one of those guys who would do anything for anyone and stayed in touch with so many lads, those who went on to have careers in the game and those who didn’t.”
Notts County’s Head of Youth, Mick Leonard, continued the tributes saying;
“Jim was the most selfless human being, along with Jack Wheeler, that I’ve ever come across in my life.”
“He was a typical old-school English gentleman, who always put others before himself and never said a bad word about anyone.”
“He was instrumental in setting up our educational programme in conjunction with the League Football Education.”
“14 players from our first intake completed the educational framework and two that weren’t offered scholarships went onto Loughborough University.”
“His input into the young players’ development was vital and always positive.”
“He was like Uncle Jim to the players and one of the nicest men you’d ever wish to meet.”
LFE’s John Barton, who dealt with King at both Notts County and Forest added;
“How do you sum up Jim? He was one of a rare breed who took genuine interest in trying to guide and help young players be the best they could be, both on and off the pitch.”
“I can’t speak highly enough of Jim and the impact he has had at both clubs – he’ll be incredibly missed.”
LFE would like to pass on condolences to Jim’s wife Hilary, daughter Julia and son Michael at this difficult time.
