Spyro Spyrou and Tony Demetrios both passed to leaving a gaping hole within the local footy ranks. Spyrou had a long-time connection with the Moore Park Broncos, before stepping into the role of treasurer of South Sydney’s junior league. He served many positions within the league, including coach, manager, catering manager and director. Affectionately known as ‘Sprossy’, was a smiling face regularly seen at the Coogee Oval officials desk up until his passing at the age of 80. The Moore Park club paid tribute to ‘uncle Spyrou’. “With a big heavy heart I am writing to say that uncle Spyro left us today. Moore Park will never be the same with out you uncle Spyro,” the statement read. Souths Juniors president Keith McCraw honoured his mate for the dedication he showed “He was our catering manager for decades, a tremendous person there, always the first to support anyone in need,” McCraw said. “A life member of the junior league, Moore Park, and a distinguished member of the football management committee.” “He served on the board of the licensed club and was a great contributor while on both committees.” “He was one of our great advocates during the course of the fight in relation to the light rail, and the difficulties we encountered during the construction and COVID.” “He has been on the board and committee during tough times, always supporting the wider community. “He always had a smile on his face. He loved the community. Whenever anyone required representation, he was always happy to put his hand up. He was a great ambassador for South Sydney Juniors.” South Sydney Referees life member Christopher Anson described him as a great friend of their association. “Spyro or as we all knew him - Sprossy - was a great supporter and friend of our referees for many decades - he even forgave them if they gave Moore Park a hard time,” he said. “He was indeed a character and one who you could always share a laugh with. His passing is indeed sad and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time.” The sad news was compounded with the passing of Demetrios. Demetrios was a loyal servant to the Coogee Randwick Wombats for over 40 years. Volunteering with the club in a number of roles including treasurer, Tony along with his late wife Katy were both stalwarts at Marcellin Fields. His tireless dedication resulted in life membership of both the junior league and the Wombats. “Awful news. Club legend, true gentleman and as loyal as they come. You will be missed Tony. 40 years of friendship,” Wombats junior and former Dragon Luke Branighan said. “A Lovely Man Who Gave His Life To Junior Rugby League My Condolences To The Demetrios Family RIP Tony,” Rabbitohs legend Craig Coleman added. Mascot Jets and junior league life member Frank Cookson described him as a family man and tireless volunteer. “A devoted family man and true gentleman, Tony contributed much of his life as a volunteer of our Junior League, particularly through the Coogee Randwick club,” he said. “For his tireless efforts Tony was awarded Life Membership of both the Coogee Randwick Club and South Sydney District Junior Rugby Football League. “To Tony’s family and ever so many friends within and outside our game, we express our deepest sympathy and may he now be rejoined with Katy and RIP.” The Wombats wore black armbands during their weekend fixtures to honour the passing of Demetrios and Kyle Leonard. Originally published as South Sydney Juniors community mourns passing of life members Tony Demetrious, Spyro Spyrou