Joe Izzo - staunch sportsman

Antonio Briguglio, of Qormi, writes:

Joe Izzo's departure to pastures new caught me and, I am sure all those who knew him, unawares.

For many years Joe was a key member, in fact Honorary Secretary among other positions, on the Sliema Wanderers FC committee. He also served on boards of the Malta FA.

I came to know Joe many years back when I was still quite young with the whistle and he played football organised by the Sliema Sports Association.

These competitions were the brainchild of another great sportsman - Guzi Fava.

I still remember Joe's flair and enthusiasm on the pitch, his exemplary conduct as well as his neat appearance. Since then, we became good friends.

Joe was to become an industrious and accomplished administrator during his time as secretary of one of Malta's foremost football clubs.

His expertise and dedication put him in good stead both during his club's moments of glory as well as in times of lesser joy.

Here again, Joe always showed a lot of dedication to his responsibilities. His amiable character and positive attitude in all situations were the trademark of a true sportsman of the old school.

Joe is no more but his memory will still linger on to all those who knew him both as a family man and a staunch young-at-heart sportsman.