Bernard Dorasamy remembers Gran Pa |16 June 2011

Hoareau was perhaps the number one supporter of the old St Louis team, who dominated the game here during the regionalisation era in the 1970s and 80s.

Dorasamy was part of the team and he remembers Hoareau as a “faithful supporter”.

“He was always behind the team and rarely missed a game,” said former striker Dorasamy, who also played for the Seychelles team and won a bronze medal at the 3rd Indian Ocean Island Games in Madagascar in 1990.

Scorer of a hat-trick in St Louis’ 4-2 win over MBC of Somalia in the preliminary round of the old African Champions Cup in 1990, Dorasamy added he had a good relationship with Hoareau, who was so close to the players and did not miss the opportunity to congratulate them on their achievements.

“I must pay tribute to Mr Hoareau. He was a staunch football supporter in his younger days and he followed us around all the time. He is gone but not forgotten,” added Dorasamy.

Born on May 28, 1944, Hoareau died on May 29 this year – a day after celebrating his 67th day.

G. G.