Auckland Football Federation (AFF) is saddened to learn that former All Whites international Bert Ormond passed away on Wednesday 15 November 2017. 
 
Bert emigrated to New Zealand in 1961 after a successful playing career in Scotland where he played for Falkirk, Airdrie and Dumbarton scoring 34 goals in 83 appearances.

In 1964 the Ormond family moved to West Auckland which is where Bert began a very successful playing and coaching career with Blockhouse Bay, and later in his successful coaching career with Mt Roskill.

Bert first represented New Zealand in 1961 shortly after arriving from Scotland scoring against New Caledonia, and in 1964 he had the honour of captaining New Zealand on its 15 match World Tour. 

In total he played in 21 games for New Zealand, 17 of them while he was a member of Blockhouse Bay. He also coached the club for seven years leading them to Chatham Cup finals and through several National League campaigns in the 1970s. 

Ormond oversaw Blockhouse Bay’s 3-2 win over Western Suburbs AFC in the 1970 Chatham Cup final at Newmarket Park. 

AFF CEO Bob Patterson paid tribute to Ormond.

"Bert’s passion for football was immense. He put decades of dedication into doing all that he could as a both player and coach to bring the game to the people of New Zealand and, in particular, Blockhouse Bay. 

"Without his contribution, football would not have the stature it has in New Zealand today. On behalf of the entire football community, I offer sincere condolences to his family, friends and those with links to Blockhouse Bay and Bay Olympic."

Ormond's contribution to football is best summed up by the words of respected Wellington football journalist John Ewan.

“1970 may be remembered as the year soccer took its great step forward in New Zealand. 

"It will certainly be remembered in Wellington as the year that Blockhouse Bay proved you don’t win matches on past reputation, personalities or anything other than a down-to-earth 90 minute involvement from eleven well drilled players”.

Ends

For a full obituary as penned by John Morris click here.