Born on 4 April 1944, Ronald Raymond Rees etched his name in the annals of football history as a skilled Welsh professional footballer. Renowned for his versatility, Rees primarily took on the role of a winger, showcasing his adeptness on both flanks. A significant part of his illustrious football journey was his association with Coventry City, where he devoted six commendable years. His prowess on the field also led him to represent the Wales national team in 39 matches, during which he netted the ball thrice.
Journey Through Football
Beginning his football journey at the Coventry City youth team, Rees’s undeniable talent caught the attention of Jimmy Hill, who introduced him to the senior team in May 1962. His time at Highfield Road was marked with significant achievements, including aiding Coventry in their rise from Division Three to the coveted Division One.
In March 1968, Rees transitioned from Coventry City to join the ranks of West Bromwich Albion, with a transfer fee set at £65,000. However, his stint with the club was brief, and by February 1969, he had moved to Nottingham Forest for a deal worth £60,000.
Swansea City, under the leadership of manager Roy Bentley, recognized Rees’s potential and acquired him for a club-record fee of £26,000 in January 1972. After dedicating three-and-a-half fruitful seasons to Swansea, Rees took his talents to Haverfordwest in the League of Wales in August 1975.
Life Beyond the Pitch
After bidding adieu to his football career, Rees delved into a new phase of life, working at the renowned Ford motorworks, with roles in both Swansea and Bridgend. However, life presented a challenge in 1995 when, at 51, Rees suffered a debilitating stroke, which sadly impacted his mobility and speech. Despite the setbacks, his love for football remained undiminished. Residing at Hengoed Court Care Home in Swansea, Rees’s passion for the sport was evident as he consistently kept abreast with the latest Coventry City football updates.
The football world mourned the loss of this legendary player when Ronald Raymond Rees passed away in October 2023, leaving behind a legacy at the age of 79.
