Vale Rob Colla

Brunswick Zebras are deeply saddened by the passing on Sunday 21st June of our beloved committee member and long standing coach, Robert Colla.

Robert came to our club in 2004 as the first coach of our Under 12 Girls’ team.  He continued to coach girls and women almost every year for the next sixteen years. He contributed enormously to last year’s Women’s State 3 team’s premiership, but more importantly, he has been a pillar in building a robust girls’ and women’s football program throughout the Brunswick Zebras.

As well as coaching, Robert mentored many other coaches, and was an active and energetic member of the committee, especially in regards to the coaching program.

Robert even starred in a cameo playing role, on the backline of the Brunswick Zebras Senior Men’s team when it was managed by Fab Montagna.  Being a good twenty years older than most of his team mates did not deter the athletic and talented defender.

Our hearts go out to Robert’s daughter, Giulia, herself a Brunswick Zebras stalwart, who has played every year for the past sixteen, served as Team Captain, first aid officer, fundraiser, and winner of several playing awards, including the Bruno Saico Award for Best Club Player. 

We send our condolences to Robert’s partner and Giulia’s mother, Deborah Pyke, and to Giulia’s sisters, Lucia and Stefania.

Robert, your enthusiasm and passion for the Beautiful Game, along with your humour, kindness, intelligence and grace will be deeply missed at the Brunswick Zebras.




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