Speedy recovery to Gladesville Ryde Magic man John Koletti

It is with great sadness that we report one of football’s most respected and popular personalities has suffered a turn for the worse recently, and is now recovering from a stroke.

John Koletti, who currently ‘works’ for his beloved Gladesville Ryde Magic FC in the NPL 3 NSW Men’s competition, has over the years put in countless hours of support towards the game he dearly loves.

There is no doubt that ‘JK’ sets the highest benchmark in terms of being one of football’s best administrators, having always unselfishly volunteered his time and effort over the best part of his life for the betterment of the game.

As an example of some of the work he undertakes, ‘Principal K’ – as he is sometimes affectionately known, in reference to his ‘day time’ occupation, where he is the Principal of Putney Public School – is often the first to arrive very early in the morning when Magic are playing at home.

He sets about completing all the necessary chores, from putting up the nets and setting up the field, to lighting up the barbeque, as he warmly welcomes the first of the opposition junior teams to walk in at the venue.

John’s work then continues throughout the entire day, and doesn’t finish until the completion of the first grade fixture at night, where he has often been the last person to leave the venue.

In addition to his endless energy and support, John Koletti is well known for his sportsmanship, always remaining calm and impartial irrespective of the result, protecting the officials if the need arises, whilst always shaking hands with the opposition….win , lose or draw.

Grassroots football continues to grow and thrive because of people just like John Koletti, so on behalf of the entire football community, we wish JK the quickest of recoveries, and we hope to see him back out doing what he loves most at your local football ground very soon.