THE Port Adelaide Football Club is saddened by the passing of former Board Director, passionate member and long-time sponsor Geoff Monteleone after a battle with cancer.
Mr Monteleone was widely respected for his immense contribution as a Board member with the club in both the SANFL and AFL.
Through his successful joinery and cabinetry business Interior Joinery and Furniture (IJF) which he built with his brothers, he sponsored and supported the club in many ways, including employing numerous players over many years and contributing to the development of the original social club and Allan Scott Headquarters at Alberton Oval.
“Geoff was instrumental in building the modern Port Adelaide Football Club,” said Port Adelaide CEO Matthew Richardson.
“He was a board member from 1982 to 1998, sponsor, host-family and employer of many players moving over from Eyre Peninsula.
“Geoff was one of the dedicated people who put everything on the line for our club in 1990 when we made our initial bid to join the AFL, and was filled with pride when he saw Port Adelaide run out for the first time to take on Collingwood at the MCG in 1997.
“There is some synchronicity knowing that our club will be facing the same side at the same venue on Sunday.
“To Geoff’s wife Chris, their family, his many friends and all at the IJF group, we send our love and deepest sympathies. Geoff was a wonderful man, and a true Port Adelaide person. There will be many past players, coaches and administrators who have heavy hearts this weekend given the impact he had on so many.”
Former Port Adelaide president Greg Boulton worked closely with Mr Monteleone during their time on the board and said he would be sadly missed by many.
“Geoff was an outstanding Director and supporter of the club who bled black and white, and later black, white, silver and teal,” Mr Boulton said.
“He was a person who wouldn’t say much, but when he did you would listen.
“Over the years, on top of his wider contribution to the club, Geoff supported many players, and that certainly won’t be forgotten.”
Port Adelaide will wear black armbands in the SANFL and AFL this weekend in honour of Mr Monteleone.
