The obituary notice of Steve HOPCROFT (HOPPY)

Where do I begin? Steve Hoppy Hopcroft, "The Great Spotter."

We first encountered you in September 2013, when Phoenix United informed us of West Bromwich Albion's interest in Jamal for a trial. Our initial meeting was filled with praise for our efforts, and recognizing our limited knowledge of academy football, you calmly elucidated every aspect for us.

You subsequently signed our 3 other boys into the academy system.

I recall you once remarked "Ibby, when will you stop saying Thank you for every little help? Otherwise, you won't stop until I am 80 years old."

Recalling these moments brought tears to my eyes.

You were so kind to us and possessed a remarkable sense of humor.
Your unwavering support for everyone who came across you was eazy to notice.
Our thoughts are with your families. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace 💕
Larry, Ibby, Jamal, Muiz, Abdul, Raheem Aloba. xxx

It was an honour and a pleasure to work with and know Steve these past 19 years. He was one of the best people you could come across and always great company and support.

My thoughts are with his family.

R.I.P Steve

Kristian Heames

Like most people our paths crossed at Aston Villa football club when we were deciding on the club for our son. Steve was honest, straightforward, professional yet humble and human. We would go on to have more conversations occasionally and yet every time he was the same friendly and attentive. He was one of a kind and will be greatly missed. Thank you for all you did for everyone whose lives you touched. Rest in peace Steve.

Victor and Brenda Orelu

Hoppy,

From when you scouted me at 7 years old to join birmingham city where i spent 7 great years. You was always there around myself and all the players making us all feel like we belonged and created many happy memories together.

To when we crossed paths again at west bromich albion, you always helped my in trying to fulfil a dream of mine. You was the start of brilliant 10 years of academy football for myself and for that i am forever greatful!

Fast forward another 13 years and still the same man you always were helping me in other aspects of football but on the recruitment side of things with aston villa, i will always take on a board everything you told me and you will always hold a special place in my life.

Rest easy mate,

Little Russ

What a wonderful man Steve was! I remember from the day I met Steve when I was 4 he was nothing but kind, caring and absolutely hilarious!

When I started Coppice in 2004, I went around Steve’s house as the ‘new kid’ so I would know a few people when I started school. Steve introduced me to the other children in Tom’s class as the new Redditch girl which broke the ice!

I have many fond memories of Steve from him swinging me around by my hands till I was nearly sick and coming down the horses pretending he was the next Olympic dressage rider despite never been on a horse in his life!

Rest in peace Steve - you will be missed my many! Alana Wells 🤍