Tribute to Michael Galea

3/08/2011
Michael Galea Tribue, New 31 Bar

On Wednesday August the 3rd, our Group organized an activity at the New 31 Bar in Birkirkara in order to pay tribute and give a thoroughly deserved farewell to Michael Galea, who has decided to quit Premier League football, consequently ending his long spell with the Stripes.

TThe event proved to be a complete success, as a very good number of supporters engulfed the venue as they would have never missed this occasion for anything in the world. These were joined by ex-coaches Mr Freddie Cardona, Mr Stephen Azzopardi and Mr Paul Zammit, committee member Mr John Borg, former legendary players such as Antoine Zahra, Andy Eminyan and George Mallia, current squad players including future captain Paul Fenech and also other players such as Karl Pulo who, although have moved to another club, they still wanted to be present.

After some social drinks and refreshments, the evening reached its fulcrum when the special guests started addressing the crowd. Michael received words of praise from coaches, players and committee members alike. He played a pivotal role from everyone’s point of view. He was a motivator for his team mates; he was the coaches’ right hand and was the team’s heart and soul for us supporters. While he might have made a name for himself by scoring a huge number of goals, for us Ultras Michael’s attachment and commitment to our club colours made him an all-time favourite. In fact, even though he doesn’t hail from Birkirkara, we all consider Michael a ‘Karkariz’ as he has honoured our town for 14 years.

Michael was clearly delighted with everything said on his regard. He said he felt this was a really special and emotional occasion for him. He explained how important these 14 years were for him, not only football-wise, but also from the human point of view as he made great friends in the process. He thanked all those that were involved at the club in some way or another during that period, players, coaches, committees and supporters. He also thanked the Group for organizing this farewell event and said that Birkirkara FC and its supporters will also have a special place in his heart. Michael was then presented with a BU97 scarf, a personalized captain’s arm band and a commemorative plaque together with an almost life-size poster. All present had the opportunity to immortalise this occasion by taking a personalized photo with their idol.

Special thanks go to the New 31 Bar Management and staff, who catered for this event magnificently. We would also like to thank all those who attended to this event, ex-coaches, ex-players, committee members, supporters, and of course Michel himself who immediately accepted our invitation.

All the best Michael…You’ll never be forgotten!!!