Thank You, Fillipo!

Thank You, Fillipo!

A Farewell to our former Captain and Manager

It was a wet Thursday night at KAIST “North,” the Chugku training ground, and my first day with the team. Amid the unfamiliar faces, an energetic and probably easy-going guy was the first to break the ice. “What’s your playing position?” he asked with a genuine smile. “Midfielder,” I answered. “Perfect. You’re welcome. I am a midfielder too, but I’ll hold it down in defense today,” he replied. That was my first encounter with Fillipo. Throughout the game, playing alongside a natural midfielder who had selflessly slotted into defense, I found a steadying force. He was a tough tackler, but his constant encouragement—"Take it easy, play simple!”—was the true welcome. His calm presence was an anchor in the chaos of a new environment. After the training session, he sought me out not just with a handshake, but with an official welcome to the Chugku family—a place where we play together, bleed together, and stand together. That first impression revealed the core of the man: relentlessly consistent, fiercely supportive, and incredibly friendly. But as we all came to learn, that selfless act on my first day was a perfect preview of his entire Chugku spell. Fillipo’s impact extended far beyond his tackles and passes. When he was Captain, he didn't just wear the armband; he embodied its responsibility. He became the bridge between the players and the management—a role he would later lead himself. He was our vocal leader in the locker room and our biggest advocate on and off the pitch–always giving assurance with “dai”. His leadership wasn't loud; it was effective, built on respect, earned through action, and focused always on elevating the entire team. His commitment was also tangible. Understanding that a strong club needs a strong foundation, Fillipo proactively secured sponsorships, bringing vital resources that helped equip and drive the community forward. He was a builder, always thinking about how to leave Chugku better than he found it. Perhaps his greatest legacy, however, is the community he helped foster. He wasn't just a teammate; he was a connector. He was the reason many of us became more than just fellow players—we became a family. So, early this month, we faced a change we knew was coming but dreaded nonetheless. As they say, life is all about changes, and Fillipo has said goodbye to Chugku to embark on an exciting new endeavor. The incredible turnout at the famed Santa Claus for his farewell dinner was a testament to that. It wasn't just a group of teammates saying goodbye; it was a community he built, coming together to celebrate him. While we will deeply miss his presence on the pitch, his leadership, and his unwavering spirit, we have no doubt he will tackle this next chapter with the same passion and success he brought to the Chugku FC community.. We wish you nothing but the best, Fillipo! Thank you for everything. We play and bleed together!