Ben Buckley pays tribute to Martyn Crook
It is with deep sadness that Football Federation Australia (FFA) announces the death of Martyn Crook, coach of the Australian Under 17 (Qantas Joeys) team and former Socceroo.
It is with deep sadness that Football Federation Australia (FFA) announces the death of Martyn Crook, coach of the Australian Under 17 (Qantas Joeys) team and former Socceroo.
Mr Crook, 52, passed away overnight in Los Angeles, where the team was preparing for three matches in the Nike International Friendlies between Australia, Brazil and the USA.
"Everyone in the football family is deeply saddened and shocked by this news," said FFA CEO, Ben Buckley.
"Martyn was a terrific coach and mentor to the Qantas Joeys, and he was highly respected by the players and his professional colleagues alike."
"Martyn will be remembered by many people in the football community, because he was a long time contributor to the game in many capacities."
Mr Crook migrated to Australia as a child with his family settling in Adelaide.
Mr Crook played 192 games as a goalkeeper with West Adelaide in the former national soccer league from 1977-1986. In his first season in the NSL, he was voted goalkeeper of the year and was a constant presence when West Adelaide won the 1978 NSL championship, conceding only 27 goals in 26 matches.
He made 14 appearances for the Socceroos from 1979-1983.
He was appointed Head Coach of the South Australian Sports Institute men's football program in 1994, was assistant coach with the Qantas Joeys from 2001 and named Head Coach of the Qantas Joeys in 2007. He was in an inductee of the South Australian Football Hall of Fame.
Mr Crook was Head Coach of the Qantas Joeys for 18 matches (11-3-4). Under his stewardship, the Qantas Joeys became the first Australian team to win an ASEAN title when they won the ASEAN Youth Championships in Jakarta earlier this year.
FFA has also announced that the game scheduled to be played against the USA this morning (Australian time) has been cancelled. The Qantas Joeys will play the remaining two matches in the tournament, and return to Sydney as planned on Wednesday morning.
"We are in close contact with Martyn's family in Adelaide, as well as the staff and the players in Los Angeles. The Australian Government has provided welcome consular assistance and support in Los Angeles," said Buckley.
"Martyn made a great contribution to football in Australia for more than 40 years, and he was in a job he loves.
"Our heartfelt sympathy goes to Julie Crook and their three sons."