The Newcastle Jets and coach Mark Milligan led the tributes for local footballing legend Chris Turner at the weekend.
In honour of the much-loved former player, mentor, commentator and sporting identity, who sadly passed away on Friday 8 May, the A-League Men’s (ALM) outfit wore black armbands in its important semi-final clash with Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium 24 hours later.
Milligan, the Socceroo great, even kicked off his after-match press conference to pay his respects to the man affectionately known as “CT” and to all who knew him.
“I’d like to send my condolences, and that of the Jets, to the family of Chris Turner,” he said.
“I know he was a very prominent figure, especially around Newcastle in the footballing world.
“I was fortunate enough to meet him a couple of weeks ago.
“And, we had a really good conversation.
“My understanding of him, and from everyone around, is that he was a wonderful man.
“We’d like to thank him, and his family, for everything he gave to our game, particularly in Newcastle.
“A lot of our boys had dealt with CT in one way or another.
“It was something we also addressed earlier in the day, in our pre-match talk, because he played a big role in many different areas of the game.
“In fact, he had a huge impact on a lot of people and a lot of players.”
Whether on the pitch, in the technical area or behind the microphone, Turner brought energy, knowledge and authenticity to football in Northern NSW.
An ex-player and coach with Lake Macquarie City FC and West Wallsend SFC, who mentored Maitland FC too, he was a mate to many across the community.
He also entertained everyone as an analyst and sideline reporter on NPL NNSW broadcasts.
Northern NSW Football (NNSWF) CEO Peter Haynes offered his condolences as well.
“Chris gave so much to football in northern NSW over a long period of time and his loss will be felt deeply across our entire community,” he said.
“He was passionate about the game… and about people.
“Whether he was coaching, commentating or simply supporting football in any way he could, Chris always gave everything he had.
“He was someone who genuinely cared for others and had a wonderful ability to connect with people through football.
“His kindness and generosity were always there for everyone to see.
“If you ever bumped into CT at a game, he would always greet you with a smile, a handshake and be up for a chat.
“On behalf of everyone at NNSWF and across our football family, I extend our heartfelt condolences to Chris’ family, friends and all those who had the privilege of knowing him during this incredibly difficult time.”
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