Former club captain and esteemed member of the Heidelberg United family, Nick Rakovalis, passed unexpectedly aged 68.

“He will genuinely be missed by everyone at the Club and even more so by those that were fortunate enough to call him a friend. Sadly missed, always remembered but never forgotten. May he Rest-In-Peace,” reads an announcement on the Greek club’s Facebook page, bidding farewell to ‘a former great’.

Mr Rakovalis kickstarted his career at the club at just 16 years of age, managing to progress into the senior team, two years later, in the 1969 season.

He had a total of 217 games under his belt, and experienced a milestone for the team, winning their first State League Championship in 1975, with him as the club’s captain.

Following his departure, he maintained consistent ties with Club and his former team-mates.

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Commenting on his performance and character, former sports journalist Nikos Kitsakis, paints the picture of an “exceptional defender” a “true leader”, respected within the ‘Alexander’s’ circles and beyond on and off court.

Heidelberg United club secretary, John Lioupas, expressed his sadness for the sudden loss of Mr Rakovalis.

“He was one of Alexander’s most valuable players in the 70s and the club’s captain in 1975 when we won our first State League Championship. He will be remembered for his passion and fighting spirit. He would always be present at Club events showing how much of an important role Alexander had in his life. We extend our sincere condolences to his family,” Mr Lioupas told Neos Kosmos.