Supporters urged to join event to celebrate life of Doncaster Rovers legend

Steve Uzelac, who played for the club between 1971 and 1977, is fondly remembered by scores of supporters and the event to mark his life will take place at the Eco Power Stadium in June.

A family spokesperson said: “Please come and join family and friends to celebrate and remember the life of Steve Uzelac.

“Whether you’re an old friend, supporter, former player or colleague, feel free to join us and mark his passing with your memories.

“The event will take place at the stadium in the director's room and president's suite, so mark your calendars and join us for a special tribute to Steve. We look forward to seeing you there.”

The event will take place on June 21 from 1pm to 4pm.

No dress code (football shirts welcome), catering for 50-60 people, chargeable card only bar.

Please click the button on the Facebook page HERE to let organisers know you will be attending so numbers for catering can be arranged.

Steve’s funeral will be a private family affair in line with his wishes.

Doncaster Rovers have paid tribute following Mr Uzelac’s death.

A club spokesperson said: "All at Rovers and Club Doncaster are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Steve Uzelac.

“Born in Doncaster, Steve made 207 appearances for his hometown club, scoring 12 goals.

“As a youngster, he played both football and rugby league for Doncaster and District Schools and was a member of the Doncaster Boys team that won the Yorkshire Schools Shield in 1969.

"Shortly after, he became an apprentice with Rovers and featured for the reserves and junior teams before signing professional terms in June 1971.

“His senior debut came on October 16, 1971 in a 3-1 win at Newport County where he started in central defence alongside experienced captain Stuart Robertson. When Robertson was forced off, Steve found himself playing alongside former reserves team mate Stan Brookes.

“His maiden season brought 32 appearances and praise from manager Maurice Setters for his physical strength and character, as well as cultured play and excellent heading ability.

“Both Steve and Brookes were invited to train under Manchester City manager Malcolm Allison while he also had interest from Chelsea and Newcastle United, though nothing materialised.

“January 1974 saw Steve feature in his personal favourite game for Rovers when they visited Anfield to play Bill Shankly’s defending champions Liverpool in the third round of the FA Cup. Rovers earned a 2-2 draw and almost won the tie in the dying moments before losing the replay at Belle Vue.

“Steve was a part of the Rovers side to reach the quarter-final of the League Cup during the 1975/76 season - a run which saw Crystal Palace and Hull City beaten before falling to Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane. He also helped Rovers to the Sheffield County Cup in 1976 with a win in the final against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.

“After being released by Rovers in 1977 with manager Stan Anderson eager for him to play at a higher level, Steve joined Preston North End who went on to win the Division Three title in 1978. He joined Stockport County in March 1980, making 40 appearances before being forced into retirement having suffered a dislocated ankle and damaged Achilles tendon.”

He also played for Mansfield Town and Stockport County before hanging up his boots in 1982.

“Following retirement, Steve returned to Doncaster and worked for an aggregates company before running a fishing tackle shop. He then worked as a prison officer at HMP Lindholme. He settled in Intake and continued to follow Rovers’ results with interest.

“He died on May 3, 2025 - the day Rovers clinched the League Two title - following a prolonged battle with cancer.”

Rovers historian John Coyle said: “In March 2022 I had the pleasure of meeting and interviewing Steve. He was generous with his time and also loaned me his precious scrapbooks, kept by his late mother Joyce. These helped me to produce the detailed profile of Steve that now serves as his obituary.

“We have lost a Rovers legend, a Doncaster lad and one of my boyhood heroes. Rest in Peace, Steve Uzelac.”

All at the club send our heartfelt condolences to all those close to Steve at this sad time.