Jacques d’Ancona was appointed knight of the federation in 2015. – Picture: KNVB Media
The KNVB has obtained the unhappy information that knight Jacques d’Ancona handed away on Friday in his hometown of Paterswolde. He was 86 years outdated. The versatile and amiable man from Groningen was dedicated to soccer basically and refereeing particularly for a few years. D’Ancona was appointed knight of the KNVB in December 2015.
Jacques d’Ancona was 19 years outdated when he refereed his first match. He proved to be gifted. Six years later he already led the ultimate of the Dutch newbie championship. After his energetic profession he remained concerned in refereeing, each in skilled soccer and newbie soccer. He was an observer and coach for the KNVB. D’Ancona was additionally one of many initiators of the Euro soccer match for youth gamers that was organized yearly in Groningen.
Ardour and enjoyable
When he was appointed as a knight of the federation, then chairman Michael van Praag spoke phrases of reward about d’Ancona’s providers to soccer. “I do not know anybody who has been so dedicated to soccer for greater than 60 years. He has completed a lot for soccer and particularly the referees.”
D’Ancona himself known as the award a particular honour. “I’ve devoted my whole life with ardour and pleasure to the event of soccer. First as a referee, later additionally in varied different features in newbie soccer {and professional} soccer. This seems like an enormous appreciation,” he stated on the time.
In 2013, Jacques d’Ancona was one of many outstanding figures who sailed on the very first KNVB boat throughout the Canal Parade in Amsterdam.
TV persona
D’Ancona was not solely identified and beloved within the soccer world. He was a journalist for the Dagblad van het Noorden his whole life. As a theatre critic he loved numerous respect. He gained nationwide fame within the 80s as a jury member of the Soundmixshow. He offered strict and trustworthy commentary on all performances within the expertise present with presenter Hennie Huisman.
Jacques d’Ancona handed away on Friday afternoon because of coronary heart failure. We want his accomplice Hans, household and associates a lot energy in dealing with this nice loss.
