Michael Wrublewski passes away
The King of the Kings and Maccabi stalwart Michael Wrublewski has passed away.He died peacefully this morning in his Bellevue Hill home with his family around him.
The charismatic Wrublewski made his beloved Sydney Kings a household word in a city not known for its love of basketball. Under his watchful guidance, Wrublewski promoted not only the Kings but the sport itself, packing the crowds in to cheer on new stars rising in a sport hitherto living in the shadows.
But it was not just basketball that captured the imagination of the former pharmacist. He was former president of NSW Maccabi and a member of the Maccabi World Union and a former director of Bondi’s Hakoah Club.
A close friend told J-Wire this morning: “His favourite expression was ‘I am here for you’…and he always was. Even when I visited him a couple of days ago, he managed a smile and told me ‘I am still here for you’. He will be deeply missed.
Three weeks ago, battling pancreatic cancer, Wrublewski attended a tribute and testimonial in his name. 600 people packed the Eveleigh Carriageworks to listen to Wrublewski speak of his life. Although his health had visibly deteriorated, he managed to hold the audience for 40 minutes as he spoke of times past with advice to those responsible for the future of basketball. He warmly greeted many of the sport’s fraternity including former Kings’ stars who had travelled from around the world to pay their respects. A sports Foundation for Juniors was established during the evening in his name.
Michael Wrublewski was 63 years old. He was born in Frankfurt, Germany and moved to Sydney as a small child.
He is survived by his current wife Shauna and their daughters Sasha, 11 and Zalli 8 and by sons Adam and David from a former marriage.
Videos of Michael Wrublewski’s speech at his testimonial can be seen here
This couldn’t wait till after Shabbat?
His eldest daughter’s basketball team, the Reddam Rockets, won their game this morning 29-28 with a come-from-behind effort. They dedicated the win for Sasha and Mike.
A passionate, loyal and hard working man who will be sorely missed by the Maccabi Sporting movement as well as all the long time Sydney Kings fans. He was always friendly, idealistic, and always with a smile. He will be sorely missed and hopefully the NBL will now wake up and realise how important this sport is to its fans.
Sadly missed by all who new him.