Arthur Charles Tofts
A reminder of the days when people could excel in multiple sports whilst still tying down a busy and demanding career, A.C. Tofts was a Darlington native who began his footballing career at Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School, the school that formed Darlington Football Club. As Tofts also featured in The Quakers’ first ever line-up, it’s safe to assume that he had a hand in the creation of the club.
A teacher by trade, Tofts utilised his Cambridge University degree to become second master at Coatham Grammar School. He joined the local football team, Redcar and Coatham, upon his move. A fearsome forward, he scored several goals in Redcar and Coatham’s famous journey to the FA Cup quarter final in 1885/86, playing in every match.
Also a talented tennis player, he was a founder member of the Cleveland Golf Club as well. His career took him away from the area and eventually to South Africa.