Members of the Bermuda rugby community are expected to turn out in force on Friday to remember the late Philip Heaney, a former Renegades and Bermuda player.

Heaney, who moved to Bermuda from Scotland in 1988 where he used to play for Edinburgh Academy, died on the island at the age of 65 a fortnight ago. Besides playing the sport, he also served as Renegades president from 2002 to 2008.

A memorial celebration of Heaney’s life will be held at the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club on Friday, starting at 5pm.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Phil Heaney,” Renegades announced.

“As a former first XV captain and club president, Phil was a true legend of Renegades RFC. We extend our deepest condolences to Phil’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.”

John Weale, a former top referee, described Heaney as one of the finest fly halves of his generation.

“I did not work with him, but I knew him pretty well through both rugby and football,” Weale said.

“He was one of the best fly halves of his generation here in Bermuda. The only other No 10 who was at a similar level in those days was Alan Oliver [Police], who passed away far too young.

“Phil was an amazing kicker of the ball, both tactically and place kicking. Not surprisingly, he was also a good footballer.”

Heaney’s former Renegades and Bermuda team-mate Colin Targett spoke of how his fellow backline player sharply divided opinion.

“He was like Marmite,” he said. “You could absolutely hate him one minute due to his quick wit and sense of humour, always finding a fallibility in anyone and any situation.

“Yet the very next minute, he was the funniest, most genuine kind-hearted guy you could ever meet.”

Keith Mahon, Heaney’s friend for more than two decades, recalled how the man who dominated headlines in the 1990s for his kicking prowess, was fun to be around.

“Phil was a sly fox on the pitch, slinking through back lines with a grin,” Mahon said.

“Off the field, he was sharp-witted and his slick charm had you laughing before you knew you’d been had.

“Whether he was spinning a yarn or pulling a prank, his quick wit made him unforgettable. A true character who played the game, and life, with a smile and a spark in his eye.”