Football Australia is saddened by the passing of Football Australia Hall of Fame inductee and Football SA Life Member Charlie Caruso, a respected administrator who dedicated decades of service to Australian football.
Caruso made a significant contribution to the game at club, state and national level, including through senior leadership roles with Adelaide City, the South Australian Soccer Federation and the National Soccer League.
His contribution also extended to Australia’s national teams and the international game, representing Australian football through a range of appointments and at major international tournaments.
Football Australia Chair Anter Isaac paid tribute to Caruso’s contribution to the game.
“Charlie dedicated an extraordinary amount of his life to football and made a significant contribution to the growth and development of our game,” Isaac said.
“From his service to Adelaide City and football in South Australia, through to the National Soccer League, our national teams and the international stage, Charlie’s contribution was extensive and enduring.
“He was part of a generation of administrators whose passion, leadership and commitment helped shape Australian football, and his contribution was recognised through the respect in which he was held across the game.
“On behalf of Football Australia, I extend our sincere condolences to Charlie’s family, friends and all those across the Australian football community who knew him.”
Caruso’s service to the game was recognised through Life Membership of Soccer Australia, the South Australian Soccer Federation and Adelaide City, as well as induction into the Football Australia Hall of Fame and Football South Australia Hall of Fame.
His legacy also continues through the Charlie Caruso Award, presented annually as part of Football South Australia’s Celebration of Football awards.
Football Australia joins the Australian football community in mourning his passing and recognising a lifetime of service to the game.
Vale Charlie Caruso.
