Stanmore Jafferys and the wider community are mourning the loss of a “wise and dedicated” club leader, who died suddenly last month.
Fazal Asgherali Virani, 48, who had lived in Stanmore with his family for more than 20 years, died in an accident on the M1 on February 22, between junctions 4 and 5 northbound.
He was an integral part of Stanmore Jafferys (SJ), a community-based sports organisation provided by the Hujjat KSIMC mosque in Stanmore.
Shaneabbas Merali, SJ trustee and head of gents sports, said: “It is with deep sorrow that Stanmore Jafferys received the tragic news of the untimely demise of our mentor, friend and colleague Fazal Asgherali Virani.
“Witnessing the loss of a wise, dedicated and unassuming club leader, we are in shock and in flux after hearing of his sudden and abrupt passing.
“On the night of his departure, the centre was filled with friends filled with disbelief as they could not imagine no longer being able to share a meal or laughter with the man who had welcomed them to the Hujjat community via the SJ platform more than a quarter of a century ago.”
Fazal joined the club as a teenager – older members will remember his volleyball performances at the Hujjat Annexe Car Park in the 1990s.
Mr Merali reminisced, saying: “His fervour and passion on the court enveloped his team with energy and vitality, whilst radiating waves of respect across the opposing teams.
“His drive and desire on the court amongst his troops was equally balanced with protection and support only a true leader and captain can emanate.”
After representing SJ in national and international tournaments, Fazal soon became a true SJ legend and a brand ambassador on the global community volleyball arena.
Mr Merali added: “His departure leaves a huge vacuum amongst members of his family as well as the whole Stanmore Jafferys and Hujjat community.
“He reached out to old and young alike with the aim to bridge differences amongst ages by using his wit, charm and deep-rooted faith.
“On behalf of the entire Stanmore Jafferys membership with whom he worked tirelessly, we convey our heartfelt condolences to the Virani family.”
Picture credit Jarek Kilian & Shutterstock.com
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