Today, 5 May, the outstanding midfielder of Dynamo Kyiv, Yuriy Kalitvintsev, turns 55. He played for Dynamo Kyiv in 1994-1999 and became the Ukrainian champion in 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998, as well as the winner of the Ukrainian Cup in 1996 and 1998. UEFA honorary member Hryhoriy Surkis congratulated the hero of the day.
Dear Yuriy Mykolayovych!
Please accept my sincere congratulations on your 55th birthday!
It is with great pleasure that I congratulate a true master and intellectual, a man who has made a huge contribution to the development of football in our country.
Your play as a member of Valery Lobanovsky's star team delighted millions of fans, and many of them went to see Kalitvintsev. The discerning Kyiv audience could not help but appreciate your centimetre-perfect passes, unexpected decisions, sophisticated technique, deadly standards for opponents and, of course, your captaincy. Can we ever forget your actions, the goal you scored, and the effective passes to Serhii Rebrov and Andrii Shevchenko in the matches against Barcelona? Dynamo's outstanding victories over Barcelona remain part of the golden fund of European football.
You continued to demonstrate your deep understanding of the Game even when you plunged into the stormy waters of your coaching career. And your inspired work with the Ukrainian youth teams, the historic triumph at the 2009 UEFA European Championship (U19), fruitful work in the national team, and successes at the club level are just the tip of the iceberg. It is difficult to count how many promising youngsters have passed through your hands and subsequently reached outstanding football heights. The experience and knowledge that you have shared and are sharing with your charges are truly priceless!
Happiness and health, dear jubilee, peace and prosperity to you and your family. I wish you success in your favourite business and fulfilment of all your cherished dreams.
Sincerely yours,
Grigory Surkis