BELIZE CITY, Thurs. Dec. 29, 2016–We received the shocking news over the Christmas weekend of the passing last Friday of one-time top Belizean football referee, Pete Carrillo.

I recall that Pete was “the man in the middle” for the 1st Division championship match in June (I think) of 1987, at the Isidoro Beaton Stadium in Belmopan, when Belize City based Coke Milpros defeated Verdes of Cayo, 2-1, to claim the national championship. It was at the time the highest attendance on record for a championship football game in Belize; at least, so I was informed by then Belize National Football Association (BNFA) General Secretary, Delhart Courtney. That Pete was chosen for such a big match, says how highly he was regarded by those in authority, and he handled himself, as always, with poise and class.

At the time of his sudden passing, Pete had long retired from refereeing, and was also retired from his job as engineer in the Public Works Department. Funeral services were held yesterday in Belmopan.

Our sincere condolences from the sports desk to his relatives and all his many friends. Rest in peace, brother Pete Carrillo.