A significant chapter in the history of Ħamrun Spartans has come to an end, with long-serving coach and former player announcing his departure from the club after an extraordinary 44-year association.

In an emotional statement, he revealed that the decision was a difficult one, brought about by circumstances that left him with no alternative but to step away from the club he has served for almost half a century.

Reflecting on his journey, he described a career filled with unforgettable moments, both as a player and later as a coach. Over the past 26 years in coaching, he guided hundreds of young footballers through their formative years, many of whom have since become adults and are now bringing their own children into the sport.

He paid tribute to all the players he coached throughout the years, describing the relationships he built with them as exceptional and saying they will always hold a special place in his heart.

The departing coach also thanked the countless parents who entrusted their children to his care. While acknowledging that disagreements occasionally arose, he stressed that he always tried to act fairly and honestly, and that any differences were resolved with mutual respect.

Special appreciation was also reserved for the many coaches with whom he worked over the years. He noted that he always respected their work, allowing them the freedom to develop their own ideas and coaching styles. Whether offering advice, debating football matters or supporting colleagues pursuing new opportunities elsewhere, he said those relationships were built on respect and professionalism.

Looking back on his decades of service, he also thanked the various club administrations that supported him throughout his career. He recalled how the late Mario Debattista first encouraged him to take up coaching while he was still playing, and highlighted the contributions of figures such as Victor Cassar, Noel Debattista, Antoine Attard and Martin Bugeja.

Describing them as dedicated and genuine servants of the club, he praised those who stood by Ħamrun Spartans through difficult periods and not only during successful times.

A heartfelt message was directed towards the club’s supporters, whom he described as the main driving force behind his long commitment to the Spartans.

“Your love and respect have always been my greatest motivation,” he said, adding that he is proud to walk through Ħamrun with his head held high, knowing he always gave the club his maximum effort, time and dedication.

The coach also expressed gratitude to his wife, Lucienne, for her unwavering support throughout his football career. He acknowledged her patience during the highs and lows of more than 1,300 weekends spent in coaching, as well as the support of his daughter Erika, who grew up immersed in football life. He also mentioned his granddaughter Greta, whom he tried to shield from the emotional rollercoaster that football often brings.

Despite bringing his remarkable spell at Ħamrun Spartans to a close, he made it clear that his future remains firmly in football.

“Football is my life and I cannot live without it,” he said. “New challenges await, and they are the spark that made us fall in love with this beautiful game. For us, football is not just a sport – it is a passion that continues to drive us towards new challenges and future successes.”

His departure marks the end of an era for Ħamrun Spartans, closing a 44-year chapter defined by loyalty, dedication and an enduring commitment to the club’s youth development and footballing success.