Malcolm John Tovey

Malcolm Tovey passed away on November 8, 2024, after experiencing a sudden and severe heart attack while preparing for a game of golf. He was taken to the hospital, where he passed away shortly after, surrounded by his loving family. Those closest to him take comfort in knowing he did not suffer.

Malcolm was born in Bristol, England, to two supportive and loving parents, Gwendoline “Gwen” and William “Bill” Tovey. From a young age, he developed a deep passion for sports and a competitive spirit that remained with him throughout his life. This passion became the foundation for his remarkable career in youth soccer, where he made a lasting impact on the San Diego community.

In England, Malcolm played for Hengrove Athletic F.C. and was selected to represent the England International Boys Clubs. He later joined Weston-super-Mare Association F.C. and attended Keele University, where he earned his teaching qualifications, majoring in Physical Education. During this time, he played for the Madeley Sports First team and participated in a student exchange program at Long Beach State University. It was during this exchange that he fell in love with Southern California.

After graduating from Keele University, Malcolm returned to the United States to attend San Diego State University, where he received a soccer scholarship. Following his time at SDSU, he worked as a P.E. teacher at The Children’s School and launched Tovey Camp, which later evolved into San Diego Sports Camps.

Malcolm served as the Director of Coaching for Surf Soccer Club from 1982 to 1996, leaving a significant legacy in the San Diego soccer community. Since 1996, he continued to inspire and mentor young athletes as the Director of Coaching for Rancho Santa Fe Attack.

Malcolm is survived by his partner, Angelyn; his daughter, Bri; his son, Matt; Angelyn’s sons, Jase and Garrett; his beloved grandchildren; and his family in England. While many knew Malcolm as an exceptional coach, his children who wrote this want you to know that he was an even better dad.

Malcolm’s family held a private ceremony to scatter his ashes at sea on Friday, November 29th. If you knew Malcolm, played soccer with him, were coached by him, or worked alongside him, you are warmly invited to celebrate his life on Sunday, January 5th, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Rancho Santa Fe Sports Field (16826 Rambla de las Flores, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067). For more information, please contact Marilee at the RSF Attack Soccer Club at [email protected] or reach out to Malcolm’s family directly.