
The Guyana Football Federation on Friday sent its condolences to the family of former national footballer Neil ‘Grizzly’ Humphrey, who passed away last weekend.
Berbice-based Humphrey, who was 65, played for the Senior Men’s National Team during the 1970s with his brother Keith. During his club career, he played for several sides, including Cougars, Caribs, Bermine and Hearts of Oak.
“Grizzly was a larger-than-life character who made a huge impression on football nationally and, in particular, in Berbice. On behalf of the Guyana Football Federation, I would like to send my sincerest heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time,” said GFF President Wayne Forde.
After his playing career, Humphrey remained a keen enthusiast, supporter and organiser of football, from coaching to refereeing and youth development, including the Teach Them Young football camps which he ran for more than two decades.
He also served as president of the Hearts of Oak Masters FC and as the local contact for the Overseas Disturbance FC, which is comprised mostly of members of the diaspora from New Amsterdam.
“He will be greatly missed by all, but there is so much to celebrate about his life. He leaves behind an incredible list of achievements in football that have made a permanent mark on his community and beyond,” Forde said. “It is the unsung heroes like ‘Grizzly’ who make the real difference for the development of young people in our communities.” (GFF)