The South Australian football family is mourning the loss of a great club man. Joe Camilleri is quite simply an Adelaide City legend, which is why he is known as 'Mr Adelaide City.' But while his passing hurts for so many, his legacy will live on.
Joe, or 'Zeppy' as he's known at Oakden, dedicated 37 years of his life to Adelaide City, being a member of the club since 1985. During his years with the club, Zeppy had not missed a single game. He ensured that all the playing strips and equipment were available for all three senior teams personally cleaning all playing and training attire each week. It said that Joe committed on average 30 hours a week to the club as a volunteer.
Nic Bucco spoke to Football SA and explained what the great man did around the club, and just how influential Zeppy was on his career.
To put it simply - he did everything. He would attend the club every day to do the washing for all players and staff. He would clean up inside and out. Saturdays he would bring all kits freshly washed with the help of his beautiful wife Helen, he would clean up outside post-game, picking up cans off the floor.
When we say he was 'Mr Adelaide City', that’s not putting it lightly. He dedicated his life to the club, his purpose was to serve others, which helped teach us players humility and respect - which shows how big his influence on the playing group.
Nic's emotional tribute continues, explaining his bond with Zeppy was more than just football.
My relationship with him was special; the nicknames, the hugs and kisses - anytime we made contact it was a smile and a laugh. He lit up the place for everyone, not just myself with the many quotes and stories that are so famous amongst current and ex-players.
Zeppy celebrating a Federation Cup win in 2014, with Alex Sunasky, Nic Bucco, Matt Mullen and Joel Allwright
He had a heavy influence on my career - the way he made me understand what it means to wear the black and white and how to express myself on the field. He would also come to me with words of wisdom post-game and if not - just to break down the past 90 mins.
The words received from opposition clubs has shown how endeared he was by the FSA community.
I will remember him with only a smile. His loud voice, his laugh and his personality so infectious that it’s impossible to ever be down in his presence.
We will remember this great man forever at ACFC - his memory will be eternal for his dedication, selflessness and hard work.
Joe in jubilation with Matt Mullen, after Adelaide City's 1-0 win over A-League side Western Sydney Wanders in the FFA Cup in 2014.
Adelaide City captain, Matthew Halliday, also pays tribute to the great man and saw Joe as a part of his family.
Zeppy was like having another grandfather. He treated everyone like they were his own family. You could speak to him about anything.
He was just so inviting when being a part of the senior set up like you were there for years already. He made me comfortable and part of the team. He is irreplaceable and is the greatest club man.
I’ll be forever grateful for not only the things he did for everyone but the passion and joy he brought to the club and soccer community.
Football SA would like to offer condolences to Joe's family at this sad time.
