Ex-footballer fumes after being “blackballed” by golf club

A former footballer has taken to social media to vent his fury after appearing to be “blackballed” by his local golf club. 

Dean Windass, who played as a forward for sides including Aberdeen, Hull City and Middlesbrough during a 20-year career, made the claim on X on Saturday.

Tagging Hull Golf Club in his post, Windass – who announced in January he has been diagnosed with Stage 2 dementia – wrote: “Woke up feeling a bit deflated yesterday after finding out my local golf club had blackballed me.

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“I was asked by some local pros that work there why I wasn’t a member and that I should join. I thought about it and decided that after my recent diagnosis it would probably do me good to join and spend my days enjoying one of my favourite pastimes.”

He added: “This golf club is run by the members and the decision is ultimately up to them … so for some reason (as no reason is given) they have rejected my application. I have an idea who it is and I actually feel sorry for them because to have that much bitterness towards me is very sad.

“Jealousy is an illness. But today’s a new day and just thought I’d reflect, move on and focus on the future.”

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Windass’ 90,000 followers were quick to offer their support, amongst them ex Nottingham Forest and Wales goalkeeper Mark Crossley.

“You would have thought a sport that helps people with mental health problems past or present would be reaching out to help,” replied the former shot-stopper. “Obviously not in this case. I’m shocked Deano. Our golf club Tankersley love having you there. Chin up, their loss mate.”

A spokesperson for Hull Golf Club told bunkered.co.uk that it had “no comment to make on the matter.”