In commemorating the seventh anniversary of his passing, the legacy of Ilhan Cavcav, the long-lasting president of Gençlerbirliği, looms giant over Turkish soccer historical past, leaving an indelible mark by his shrewd transfers, strategic teaching adjustments, dedication to infrastructure, and unapologetic statements.
Born on Oct. 4, 1935, in Ankara’s Hamamönü, Cavcav’s journey from working in his father’s mill as a toddler to changing into a notable determine within the flour business set the stage for his unprecedented affect on soccer fields.
Affectionately dubbed the “football merchant,” he adeptly offered gamers skilled inside Gençlerbirliği’s youth ranks to soccer giants Fenerbahçe, Beşiktaş, Galatasaray and Trabzonspor, establishing himself as a formidable pressure in Turkish soccer.
Cavcav, the honorary president of the capital staff, grew to become synonymous along with his distinctive type, participating in memorable discussions with fellow membership presidents and constantly making headlines for his outspoken views.
Remarkably, he held the presidency of Gençlerbirliği for a powerful 37 years.
His foray into soccer administration started with Hacettepe and regardless of early challenges, Cavcav returned to the game with a resilient spirit.
His pivotal position in merging the 2nd and third leagues saved Gençlerbirliği from relegation, and the membership flourished beneath his management, securing promotions and clinching the Turkish Cup twice.
Cavcav’s knack for altering coaches earned him a popularity, working with 42 totally different coaches throughout his tenure and altering a staggering 56 occasions.
Yet, it was his belief in Mesut Bakkal that stood out among the many rotations.
Known for locating expertise even in newbie matches, Cavcav orchestrated economical transfers, promoting 34 gamers to Turkish soccer giants.
His world imaginative and prescient prolonged to Africa, with profitable signings like John Moshoeu, Donald Khuse, and Andre Kona N’Gole, contributing to the inflow of African gamers in Türkiye.
One of his crowning achievements was promoting Cameroonian Njitap Geremi to Real Madrid for a groundbreaking $5 million switch price.
His business acumen additionally fueled the institution of Gençlerbirliği as a debt-free membership with fashionable amenities.
Beyond membership issues, Cavcav’s affect reverberated within the institution of the Clubs Union Foundation, the place he served as chairperson.
He performed a pivotal position in shaping the “pool model” for broadcasting income distribution amongst golf equipment.
Despite well being challenges, Cavcav remained devoted to soccer till his passing on Jan. 22, 2017, on the age of 81.
His son, Murat Cavcav, succeeded him as Gençlerbirliği’s president, but the membership confronted challenges, experiencing relegation and financial downturns.
Source: www.dailysabah.com