‘A man of principle’ – aquatic sport mourn the death of Edgar Izzo

Maltese aquatic sport woke up to the sad news that former ASA treasurer Edgar Izzo died at the age of 85 years.

Izzo, the father of current ASA president Karl, was an inspirational figure in Maltese sport after a long and respected career as a sports administrator.

During his career, Edgar Izzo served as treasurer of the Aquatic Sports Association while he also held the role of club secretary at Sliema Aquatic Club as well as treasurer and vice-president of Sliema Wanderers Football Club.

Former ASA president Robbie Ebejer, who worked with Izzo for several years, described him as a gentleman and a person of great integrity.

“Edgar Izzo was a great man and a man of principle,” Ebejer said.

“He was very precise in everything that he did and was always ready to help everyone. Edgar was a person of great integrity, and during his time as treasurer, he insisted on making photocopies of every cheque he issued and delivering them to me.

“Edgar did everything according to the rules, and I trusted him with my eyes closed as I knew that he was a man of great integrity. He loved and respected everyone and I never heard him say one single word against anyone.

Ebejer said that Edgar was a great example for everyone around him, and he is not surprised that his son Karl followed in his footsteps.

“Edgar was a great father for his children, and I am not surprised that Karl has followed in his footsteps and has been so successful in his career as sports administrator,” Ebejer said.

“Edgar’s example has inspired many people in the sport and has been an example for everyone.”

Tony Psaila, who replaced Izzo as Sliema ASC secretary, described Edgar Izzo as a true gentleman.

“Edgar Izzo was a true gentleman and a true sportsman,” Psaila said.

“He was impeccable in his work, and I have learnt a lot from him. I could not have been given the handover as club secretary from a better person.”

The news of Edgar Izzo’s death has inevitably seen several sporting clubs pay tribute to his contribution.

Sliema ASC issued a statement to hail Izzo’s contribution to the sport.

“We bid farewell to Mr. Edgar Izzo – a true pillar of the Sliema Aquatic Sports Club and a gentleman of great integrity and dedication,” Sliema ASC said in a statement.

“Edgar served our club faithfully for many years as a valued committee member and as Club Secretary. His unwavering commitment to Sliema ASC never faltered, even when he stepped down from his role as secretary to take up the position of treasurer at Sliema Wanderers.

“Throughout that time, he remained actively involved in our committee, always offering his wisdom and support.

“He later returned to serve as Vice President under Mr. Edwin Meli, continuing his invaluable contribution to the growth and spirit of our club.

“His dedication to aquatic sports extended beyond Sliema, as he also served as Treasurer of the Aquatic Association of Malta – a testament to his passion for the sport and the community it builds.”