William Henry Foulke, widely known as “Fatty” Foulke, was born on April 12, 1874, in Dawley, Shropshire, England. Although he gained immense fame as a football goalkeeper for Sheffield United, his cricketing skills were overlooked in comparison. Foulke passed away on May 1, 1916, in a private nursing-home in Sheffield.
Foulke’s cricketing career was limited, with appearances for Derbyshire in just four matches in 1900. Despite his brief stint in the game, he made a mark by scoring 65 runs with an average of 10.83. His highest innings, an impressive 53, came against Essex at Leyton. However, it was his exceptional goalkeeping skills that truly propelled him to legendary status.
Standing at a towering height of 6 feet 2½ inches and weighing over 25 stone, Foulke was an imposing figure on the football field. He was widely recognized as one of the best goalkeepers of his time and played a pivotal role in Sheffield United’s success from 1893 to 1905. Foulke’s contribution to the team helped them win the Football League title in 1898 and the FA Cup in 1899. In 1897, he even had the honor of representing England in a match against Wales.
After his successful tenure at Sheffield United, Foulke was transferred to Chelsea for a modest sum of £20. He spent only one season with the club before moving on to Bradford City, where he continued to showcase his skills between the goalposts.
Unfortunately, Foulke’s post-football life took a rather unconventional turn. Following his retirement from professional football, he found himself working in a funfair sideshow on Blackpool beach. Here, Foulke would demonstrate his ability to save penalties to the amazement of onlookers. Despite his colorful career transition, Foulke’s fame endured.
Regrettably, Foulke’s life was cut short by pneumonia in 1916, leaving behind a legacy that combined both sporting prowess and eccentricity. While his cricketing exploits may have been overshadowed by his accomplishments in football, Foulke’s remarkable physical presence and agility made him a force to be reckoned with on any playing field.
William Henry Foulke, affectionately known as “Fatty” Foulke, captured the hearts of fans as a formidable football goalkeeper. Though his cricketing career was brief, Foulke’s time on the cricket field and his achievements in the football arena are a testimony to his remarkable skill set and larger-than-life persona.
