MLS Columbus Crew SC

Crew to honor Fitzgerald

Published on April 1, 2005 under Major League Soccer (MLS)
Columbus Crew SC News Release


Columbus Crew General Manager Mark McCullers announced the organization's plans to honor and remember former Crew Head Coach, the late Tom Fitzgerald.

Fitzgerald, the Crew Head Coach from 1996-2001, died on December 4, 2004 from injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident. His wife, Debi, and sons, Shane and Jesse, will be in attendance at Saturday's season opener and will be recognized prior to the start of the game.

"It is a bittersweet moment because Tom isn't here," said Debi. "But our time in Columbus was some of the happiest times we had and brings back great memories. I appreciate immensely what the Hunts, The Crew, Greg Andrulis, and everyone has done to keep Tom's name alive. I am honored to be here but it is still a sad occasion."

The Crew will honor Fitzgerald during the 2005 season by wearing a "Fitz" patch on the front of their jerseys, just above the Crew logo.

"Fitz was a great friend, a great coach and a great guy," said Crew Head Coach and former Fitzgerald assistant Greg Andrulis. "His passion for his family, his friends and his profession will live on forever."

Fitz will be permanently memorialized at Crew Stadium with the "Tom Fitzgerald Monument." The glacial boulder that was unearthed during the construction of Crew Stadium will feature a commemorative plaque that will also include a likeness of his face. It will be placed on the west side of Crew Stadium near Autograph Alley, just south of the locker rooms.

The Crew will also present Tom's family with a $4,000 donation that will help fund the Tom Fitzgerald Memorial Scholarship. The fund will support the men's soccer program at the University of Tampa, where Tom was Head Coach. Donations to the Tom Fitzgerald Memorial Scholarship Fund can be mailed to: Tom Fitzgerald Memorial Scholarship Fund, University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Box I, Tampa, FL 33606.

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Major League Soccer Stories from April 1, 2005


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