Dale Itchins remembered by Football Tasmania community after death

The football community across Tasmania is mourning the loss of a “wonderful character” who helped mould and nurture generations of talent.

Dale Itchins with Jordan Muller (left) and Sam Hamilton.

The football community across Tasmania is mourning the loss of a “wonderful character” who helped mould and nurture generations of talent.

Dale Itchins, 66, passed away on Wednesday evening after a long health battle.

Itchins had a massive influence on football and futsal in Tasmania for more than four decades across numerous clubs and roles.

He began coaching and part-time work with Football Tasmania in 1983 after retiring from the sport at a young age.

Itchins had great success at a number of the clubs he coached at, including Glenorchy Knights, Hobart Juventus, White Eagles, University and Olympia.

“He was popular amongst his players, some of whom preferred to play in his teams than move up the ladder to senior ranks,” close friend Walter Pless said on his blog.

Dale Itchins in 2001 as Glenorchy Knights under 23 coach.

“Itchins was a superb man manager and he employed his skills in this area, as well as using practical psychology, to get the best out of his players and the teams he coached.

“He called a spade a spade and demanded discipline from his charges.

“Anyone who crossed him or let him down intentionally was in danger of being assigned to what he jokingly called ‘The Muppet Bus’.”

Itchins took on multiple roles with Football Tasmania from 1997-2016 on a fulltime basis, primarily as futsal manager and special projects officer.

He was instrumental in establishing the state’s futsal competition as it’s known today.

“We remember Dale as our friend and colleague, but also as a great mentor and advocate for the sport we love,” Acting Football Tasmania CEO David Smith said.

“He was a passionate driver of the round ball game in Tasmania, and we acknowledge his enormous contribution.

“Our sympathies are with his family and friends today.”

Tasmanian Indigenous youth soccer team trials at KGV in Glenorchy, coaches Franco Previdi (left) and Dale Itchins.

Indoor Soccer referee Dale Itchins drops the ball for Alastair Norris (left) and John Foley Donaghue at Friends School. December 1999

Following his stint at Football Tasmania, Itchins went on to become the technical director of the Glenorchy Knights, where he continued to teach juniors the way he wanted them to play football.

“He will be missed by all, a man that had a genuine heart of gold,” Facebook page Tassie Football Central posted.

“Forever will be remembered by all he genuinely was a great man and it’s with great sadness.”

“Such a wonderful character and devoted to helping young players develop. He will be sorely missed,” Brian Downes posted on Facebook.

Originally published as Dale Itchins remembered by Football Tasmania community after death