Michael McVerry 16th February 2023

My friend's Dad, Politics teacher, and football coach. 'Dave Hop' wore a few hats for many of us. He had a laid back approach to our Politics lessons, often spending the first 15 minutes discussing that weekend's football or what high jinks different people had been up to...but we learned plenty about Politics too...and when it was time to work, we worked. This was in no short way down to the relationships he built with us. I remember when conference season came around for the political parties. That was Dave's lesson planning done. The TV was wheeled in and the lesson was spent watching the political giants of the time delivering their keynote speeches. Dave's approach worked. His students performed well, and in many he inspired an interest and love for Politics that remains. As a football coach, he was excellent. Many of us will cherish the memories of our ISFA Cup win in 1996. I imagine Dave did too, particularly seeing Steve as part of that team. We had a good team, but Dave got the best out of us. He didn't get every call right though. I recall when Dave coached the North of England ISFA Team. He'd had a couple of players pull out and needed reinforcements. Struggling, he called on two of his 1st XI players from QEGS. We'd been out the night before and weren't in the best of shape. I'd have been out of my depth anyway, but with a hangover and played wildly out of position, Dave had no option but to sub me off at half time to save both of our blushes. I still chuckle about that today. Thanks for the memories Dave Hop!