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. Though not primarily known for his managerial success, Crickmer's dedication and service to Manchester United left a lasting legacy.
Crickmer is also remembered as one of the victims of the tragic Munich Air Disaster in 1958, which claimed the lives of many 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 both 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. His role was especially vital in an era when football clubs were still relatively small and had limited resources.
Crickmer’s work behind the scenes kept Manchester United afloat during some of its most difficult years, particularly during the 1930s, when financial instability and the aftermath of World War I had 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 (1931–1932, 1937–1945)
In addition to his duties as Club Secretary, Crickmer twice took on the role of Secretary-Manager (a position akin to a modern-day football manager) when Manchester United was between permanent managers. His first spell came during the 1931–1932 season, and later during 1937–1945 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 these transitional periods demonstrated his deep commitment to the club.
Under his leadership, Manchester United struggled to achieve notable on-field success, but Crickmer’s primary contribution lay in maintaining the stability and continuity of the club. His second spell as manager coincided with World War II, during which competitive football was suspended, and the focus shifted to regional leagues and friendlies.
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 program. Alongside Sir Matt Busby (appointed in 1945), Crickmer supported the formation of the youth system that would later produce the legendary Busby Babes. His foresight in emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent laid the groundwork for Manchester United’s future success.
Tragic Death in the Munich Air Disaster
On February 6, 1958, Walter Crickmer was one of the 23 people who lost their lives in the Munich Air Disaster, a tragedy that deeply affected Manchester United and the football world. Crickmer had been traveling with the team as part of the club’s leadership. His death, along with those of Manchester United players and staff, was a devastating blow to the club. Crickmer's contributions, loyalty, and dedication to Manchester United were remembered as part of the legacy of those lost in the disaster.
Legacy of Walter Crickmer
Though Walter Crickmer is not as well-known as some of Manchester United’s more famous figures, 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. His long-standing service to Manchester United spanned decades, and his dedication ensured that the club could survive and thrive in challenging circumstances.
Crickmer’s contributions to the development of Manchester United’s youth program also helped lay the foundation for the club’s future dominance, particularly under Sir Matt Busby. His untimely death in the Munich Air Disaster marked the end of an era of Manchester United’s behind-the-scenes leadership, but his legacy continues to live on in the club’s history.
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 and helped establish the foundation for Manchester United’s famed youth system. Crickmer tragically lost his life in the Munich Air Disaster of 1958, leaving behind a legacy of service and commitment that remains a key part of the club’s history. |
1937/1938