Versatile sportsman passes away

Emmanuel 'Budgy' Dowling, the former player who distinguished himself in both waterpolo and football, died yesterday aged 83.

Hall of Fame Dowling was considered among Malta's most decorated sportsmen. His dedication to the sport knew no bounds. Those around him say he was keen and always loyal to his club and team-mates.

Dowling played for 36 long years with Valletta waterpolo club and in football, after spending the best days as an amateur for Melita, he moved to Valletta before deciding to hang up his boots.

In 2004, Dowling's achievements were recognised by the Malta Olympic Committee.

Malta's ruling body of elite sport honoured Dowling for the sterling service by inducting him in the Hall of Fame along with other popular personalities among whom endurance swimmer Turu Rizzo, Salvinu Schembri, of football, and sports administrator Alfred Briffa.

During his waterpolo career, Dowling also had a stint abroad with Rari Nantes, of Naples. Besides figuring regularly for the national waterpolo team, there were other occasions when he was selected for the Malta FA XI. He retired from waterpolo in 1968.

Dowling had seven children, three of whom Dirk, Kim and Kurt, also played for Valletta in waterpolo.

They joined other clubs during their careers and Dirk went on to coach the national team for various years. He is now at the helm of Division Two side Exiles.

The funeral will be held tomorrow at 2 p.m. at St Julian's Parish Church.