New Zealand Football sadly mourns the passing of football stalwart and Team Wellington General Manager David Farrington.

Farrington died on Wednesday morning after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was 60.

He is survived by wife Jann, sons Mathew and Jamie and daughter Katie.

New Zealand Football Chairman Frank van Hattum said the game had lost “one of football’s true gentlemen.”

“His passion for the game and the enjoyment he derived from it was clear and evidenced by the energy he continued to devote to the sport right throughout his treatment.

“It was a passion never diluted by politics or tainted with self-interest. He always put the game above that sort of stuff.”

A highly respected figure in New Zealand football circles, Farrington enjoyed a long playing career with Miramar Rangers although the highlight would later come as coach, guiding the Wellington club to a Chatham Cup and Central League double in 2004.

He retired from coaching shortly after, but moved into administration, sitting on the board of newly formed NZFC franchise Team Wellington.

In 2007, Farrington stepped into the role of General Manager for the national league franchise, a role he would serve in until his death.

The New Zealand Football Championship plans to mark the passing of David Farrington with a minute’s silence before the start of Round 7 matches on Sunday.

story courtesy www.nzfootball.co.nz