Wenzu Gabaretta
Wenzu Gabaretta was born in Alexandria, Egypt in 1917 of Maltese Parents.
Gabaretta originally played at centre forward, but he preferred to play in goal and on leaving school, he joined Melita FC of Alexandria as a goalkeeper. He was soon rated as the best goalkeeper in the city. In 1936 he felt the urge to return to his father’s land and it was not long before his talents were recognised by the Tigers of Floriana. He was an instant success and at the end of the 1936-37 season, he was snapped up by St George’s.
Gabaretta’s career really came into its own after the war when he established himself as the best goalkeeper on the island. His record speaks for itself and one would need a whole volume to describe all the exploits of this colourful personality. Yet, despite his great goalkeeping abilities, Gabaretta did not win many honours. This was perhaps the only anti-climax of an otherwise illustrious career.
In a career spanning over 15 seasons, he only won three major honours. An FA Trophy, a Cassar Cup and a Victory Cup medal are meagre rewards for such a great football personality.
Apart from St George’s Gabaretta played with Floriana Tigers, Floriana FC, Sliema Wanderers, Valletta FC and Rabat FC.
(Carmel Baldacchino)
