Football Victoria extends sincere and deep condolences to the Cimera family and Melbourne Knights community, following the passing of Anjelko 'Ange' Cimera.
Cimera was a giant of the football community and legend of Melbourne Knights FC. His career within the game spanned over 45 years.
Starting his journey at 22 as a member of Essendon Croatia in 1974, Cimera volunteered in every area of the Club, most notably as a part of the 'working committee' which managed the gates, kitchens, bars, fundraisers, events and everything in between.
Joining Essendon Croatia's committee in 1979 as a board member, Cimera played a key role in fundraising and purchasing/developing land. This land eventually became the new home of the Club, now Knights Stadium.
During his tenure with the Club, Cimera went on to hold a number of positions including general board member, Treasurer and Vice President, until 1992 when he was appointed by the members as the Club President.
He led the Club through the National Soccer League (NSL) era, during a period where the Knights produced a series of Club and national champions including Mark Viduka, Frank Juric and Andrew Marth - just to name a few. In this time the Knights were crowned Natinoal Minor Premiers four times and played in a number of NSL Grand Finals.
Under his leadership the Club flourished on and off the park. He led the Knights to a second successive premiership in 1995/96, capping off a period of sustained success.
Following the NSL era, Cimera was instrumental in registering the Club for the Victorian Premier League. He stepped back into the presidency in 2010 and stepped down in 2014 as the longest serving Melbourne Knights President, with over 10 years of service in the role, 25 years of service as a committee member in various positions and over 45 years of service as a volunteer.
Cimera's formal accolades include:
- Inducted into the Brimbank City Council Hall of Fame (2014) for service to the local community.
- Croatian Soccer Association of Australia 2014 Hall of Fame.
- Melbourne Knights Football Club, 60 Year Honour Roll Inductee
In addition to contributing so much to football, he will be remembered for being much loved figure within the community. On behalf of the entire Football Victoria team, condolences to the Cimera family, the Melbourne Knights community and all of Anjelko's friends and other family members.