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Unfairly maligned Kamasz receives widespread support after resignation from FA board

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Roar Guru
23rd March, 2022
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The Australian footballing community has rallied behind former Football Australia (FA) board member Stefan Kamasz, who resigned recently after only 16 months in the role.

Kamasz, one of the most respected and admired administrators in the game, stepped down due to conflicting values with those at FA. It is understood Kamasz has butted heads with a number of people who have long contributed to troubles faced by the games governing body.

He is well known for his integrity and willingness to hold authorities to account. This was apparently compromised during his tenure on the board.

Kamasz has had a long and distinguished career over four decades, holding roles including president and treasurer of Northern NSW Football, director of the Australian Soccer Federation, team manager of the Australian men’s national team, general manager of the National Soccer League, acting CEO of Soccer Australia, chief executive of Sydney FC, general manager and director of Sydney Olympic FC, general manager of the Johnny Warren Football Foundation and head of competitions and interim CEO of Football NSW.

While Kamasz has maintained a dignified silence since his resignation, others in Australian football have been quick to show their respect to him.

Inaugural Matildas coach Jim Selby led the chorus of praise for Kamasz.

“Stefan Kamasz is a true people’s man of football in Australia,” he said. “I was there when Stefan steadied the game in Australia through some of its most difficult periods that only a few people know about.

“He always put what’s best for the game first with honesty, hard work and many late nights. People like Stefan are special to football and often only appreciated when they leave the sport.

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“Let’s just say ‘thank you’, as that was most appropriate by Stefan … I’m sure he will still be around for us football people when needed.”

Well-respected development coach Tony Basha echoed Selby’s sentiments.

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(Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

“No better man that Stefan Kamasz. Great bloke and loves the game,” he said. “Sad to see someone of his experience walk away. Something needs to change.”

Trixie Tagg, who was the first woman to coach the Matildas in 1981, kept her message short and simple.

“Thank you, Stefan, for all you’ve contributed to football. We will miss you.”

Former Socceroos goalkeeper Jimmy Fraser was also glowing in his tribute.

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“Stefan’s resignation is a great loss to our code,” he said. “We cannot afford to lose an administrator of his stature and experience. Sad day for Australian football!”

Unfortunately, since his resignation, Kamasz has been subject to malicious comments on social media.

The false accusations suggested Kamasz was homophobic, something that has been swiftly condemned and dismissed by well-respected voices in Australian football.

Former Matildas coach Steve Darby slammed the suggestions.

“I am happy to say Stefan supported all female players when I was involved in female soccer in the 80s and 90s,” said Darby.

“Indeed he encouraged Sydney Olympic to have their first-ever women’s team. As did people like Tony and Frank Labozzetta at Marconi and Sam Vella at Melita.

“I know many elite female players who would disagree with the malicious and poor accusations against Stefan.”

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Kamasz will now enjoy a well-earnt retirement

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