A message from Philip Christopher, President of the New York Pancyprian Freedoms:

“Today we lost one of the greatest soccer players of Greece, Mimis Papaioannou. Mimis was a player and coach of the New York Pancyprian Freedoms from 1979-1985 and guided the team to three National Championships, and to the semifinals of CONCACAF.

We celebrate his life and monumental achievements while extending our deep condolences to his wife Maria and their two daughters.

He inspired countless young men and women to love the sport and to uphold Hellenic values and ideals.

May his memory be eternal.”