The death was announced yesterday morning of Joe A. Sacco, former general secretary of the Malta Football Association. He was 69 years old.

Sacco, who in his early days formed part of Gudja United FC, had resigned from his post at the MFA in July 2000 citing health reasons. He had occupied the post for a whole 18 years, having been appointed during the term of Dr George Abela as president, in 1982.

In recent years, Sacco had also become known for his contribution to the game of football through the book 45 Sena ta’ Football Internazzjonali ta’ Malta (Malta’s 45 years of international football) covering the period 24-03-57 to 13-02-02.

A Holy Mass praesente cadavere will be said at Gudja Parish Church today at 8.30am.