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Walter Crickmer was an integral figure in the early history of Manchester United, serving the club in multiple capacities, most notably as Club Secretary and Secretary-Manager. Crickmer was a devoted club administrator who played a critical role in keeping the club operational during difficult periods, particularly during the 1930s and 1940s, when Manchester United faced significant financial and logistical challenges.
Crickmer is also remembered as one of the victims of the tragic Munich Air Disaster in 1958, which claimed the lives of Manchester United players, staff and journalists.
Walter Crickmer’s Role at Manchester United
Club Secretary
Walter Crickmer first became Club Secretary of Manchester United in 1926, a role that combined administrative and management responsibilities. In this position, Crickmer was responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the club, including financial management, player transfers and logistical matters.
Crickmer’s work behind the scenes kept Manchester United afloat during some of its most difficult years, particularly during the 1930s, when financial instability left the club struggling for survival. His administrative acumen ensured that Manchester United could navigate these challenges and remain a competitive football institution.
Secretary-Manager
In addition to his duties as Club Secretary, Crickmer twice took on the role of Secretary-Manager when Manchester United were between permanent managers. His first spell came during the 1931–1932 season, and his second spell began during 1937–1938 after Scott Duncan left the club.
Although Crickmer was not a football tactician by trade, his willingness to step in and lead the team during transitional periods demonstrated his deep commitment to the club. His second spell also covered the difficult World War II years, when regular Football League competition was suspended and United played in wartime competitions.
Contributions to Manchester United’s Development
One of Crickmer’s most lasting contributions to Manchester United was his role in helping establish the club’s youth development system. Alongside club owner James W. Gibson, Crickmer helped put in place the foundations that later supported the development of young Manchester United talent.
Tragic Death in the Munich Air Disaster
On 6 February 1958, Walter Crickmer was one of the 23 people who lost their lives in the Munich Air Disaster. Crickmer had been travelling with the team as part of the club’s leadership. His death, along with those of United players and staff, was a devastating blow to Manchester United and the wider football world.
Legacy of Walter Crickmer
Though Walter Crickmer is not as widely known as some of Manchester United’s most famous managers, his role in keeping the club operational through difficult financial times and his support for the development of the youth system make him a pivotal figure in the club’s history.
Crickmer’s long service to Manchester United spanned decades, and his dedication ensured that the club could survive and eventually thrive. His untimely death in the Munich Air Disaster marked the loss of one of the club’s most loyal behind-the-scenes servants.
Summary
Walter Crickmer was a loyal and dedicated servant of Manchester United, acting as Club Secretary and twice as Secretary-Manager during times of transition. He played a vital role in the club’s survival during the 1930s, helped lay foundations for United’s youth development, and tragically lost his life in the Munich Air Disaster of 1958.
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1937/1938