Everyone at Steeton AFC is deeply saddened to hear the passing of former player Keith Bailey at the age of 65.
Keith was not only a gifted footballer but a wonderful, mild-natured man.
In 1988, such was his quality that he could have signed for anyone, Bob Craven convinced him to join Steeton.
Keith went on to play twelve seasons for the club before retiring from football at the age of forty.
Though records from that era were sparse, he stands proudly among the highest goalscorers in the club’s history.
Mark Houfe famously recalled that Keith “could be kicked up hill and down dale, yet always managed to ride the most fearsome of challenges”, cementing his legacy as one of the most notable players to ever pull on a Steeton shirt.
He went on to become a key part of the historic side that clinched the Keighley Cup, League Cup, and League treble that year alongside Mick Ferguson, Mark Holmes, Pete Ferrie, and Kev Barrett.
Keith’s remarkable football journey included signing apprentice forms at Bradford City alongside fellow former Steeton player Andy Gaughan, making three first-team appearances at Valley Parade before heading across the Atlantic.
In the US, Keith played for the world-famous Tampa Bay Rowdies, featuring in the outdoor and indoor leagues with and against some of the top names of the day.
His impact across the pond was such that years later at Elland Road, former Nottingham Forest, Leeds United, Everton, Chelsea, and England, star Duncan McKenzie even recalled playing against Keith during his time with the Tulsa Roughnecks.
A severe leg break ultimately ended his professional ambitions, bringing him back home to England and to Summerhill Lane.
He also turned out for Stanley Road and Silsden on Sunday mornings with his mates further showing his commitment to football in the local area.
Our thoughts and condolences are with Keith’s family, friends, and all who knew him, at this difficult time.
Steeton AFC will be holding a minutes applause in Keith’s memory and honour prior to Saturday’s home fixture against Daisy Hill.
