Capital Football is deeply saddened to have learned of the passing of Capital Football Life Member Hendrik “Henk” Thijssens, who passed away in his sleep on Tuesday morning (13 October) after a battle with health issues.

Thijssens, who was 83 years old, was the last active foundation member of Belnorth since joining the club in 1978, serving as a coach, manager, administrator and referee until 2019. 

Thijssens was also involved in the referee community since 1976, with 43 years of continuous service as an active referee until 2019. Thijssens also took great pride in passing on his considerable experience through coaching and mentoring referees and he was still active in that capacity as recently as March this year. 

He made a significant contribution to not only Belnorth but the broader ACT region and for those efforts was awarded Life Membership of both Belnorth and Capital Football. In 2017, Belnorth initiated the “Henk Thijssens Golden Whistle”, which is an award for the best junior game leader and junior referee in the club.

Capital Football CEO Phil Brown expressed his condolences to Thijssens’ family and friends.

“Henk was a much-loved member of the football community, leaving an enduring mark on Belnorth and in particular the referee community,” Brown said. “Our thoughts are with Henk’s nearest and dearest during this sad time.

“He will be sorely missed.”

Rest in Peace Henk.