Alexandria Soccer

In Memoriam: ASA legendary coach Fernando "Gabe" Damiani

For the past three decades, one man has been a staple across soccer fields in Alexandria. Gabe Damiani volunteered countless hours working with numerous competitive boys teams in Alexandria since 1982. The passion Gabe had for the game of soccer was undeniable, and his unselfish nature and heart set a fantastic example for the many lives he touched. We don’t come across men like Gabe Damiani very often, and the Alexandria community was blessed to have been touched by him. Alexandria has lost an icon that can’t be replaced, may he rest in peace.

 
 
 
Gabe took many boys teams from lower divisions to first division and had numerous tournament successes. Just this year, Gabe proudly led the Alexandria Titans (U16 Boys) to the top division in NCSL after starting in Division 5 with the team at U13. Over the past 30 years, Gabe made a habit of taking boys at a young age and developing them as players and most importantly as responsible men by  teaching them the importance of discipline, professionalism, dedication, commitment and respect.

Gabe refused to accept any coaching wage despite his professional credentials and constant investment of time and resources into the team. Many of the kids on Gabe’s teams have been players who may not otherwise been able to afford the professional "Travel" experience. No matter what their background, Gabe was not one to deny any dedicated player the opportunity to compete on a high level team

Former ASA player and current Technical Director at Great Falls Soccer Club Sam Bader said, "Gabe was more than a coach, he was a mentor, a friend, a confidant and above all else, a gentlemen. I played for Gabe for years and kept up my friendship for years after I stopped playing for him. His kindness was unmatched, always giving a player a ride to practice or a game, he volunteered countless hours of his time for the game he loved and he was truly a player’s coach. I always loved playing for Gabe, having him on the sideline provided that extra incentive as a player because I never wanted to let him down. Gabe has touched numerous lives both on and off the field and I am proud to have had the opportunity to call him my coach and my friend. I was saddened to hear about his passing and I can only extend my sincerest condolences to Sharon, Gabriel and Andrew. May your rest in peace Gabe."

The viewing is scheduled for Monday, May 13, 6-8pm at Everly-Wheatley Funeral Home, 1500 West Braddock Road, Alexandria VA 22302. The funeral is scheduled for Tuesday, May 14, 11am at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1427 West Braddock Road, Alexandria, VA 22302.

http://everlywheatley.tributes.com/our_obituaries/Fernando-Gabe-Damiani-95774970

ASA has setup a memorial scholarship fund in Gabe's name.  To make a contribution please click here and note the donation is directed to the "Gabe Damiani Memorial Scholarship fund".

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