The rugby community in Slovakia and Austria was hit by extremely painful news. In a tragic accident the young athlete Filip died. The young man was an exceptional link between two clubs – his home club RC Slovan United Bratislava and Viennese Vienna Celtic Rugby Football Club. Both clubs released statements full of pain and deep respect, in which they remember his talent, dedication and wonderful character.
For the home club RC Slovan United Bratislava, Filip’s departure is a huge blow. In their contribution, they highlighted not only his sporting qualities, but above all the kind of person he was. “Filip was one of the most talented players in our youth team – a player who stood out on the field for his determination, skill and passion for rugby. Filip was more than that – he was a wonderful young man, a true teammate and friend to everyone at our club,” they write in the status.
Slovan United also highlighted Filip’s incredible love for sports. He gave his talent the maximum and regularly attended training sessions and matches of two different clubs in two countries. At the same time, the Bratislava club thanked Vienna for accepting Filip. “We will never forget his will, his smile and his love of rugby. Rest in peace Philip. We will always remember you. Forever in our hearts,” the club said in a statement.
The loss of the young player also deeply affected the Austrian club Vienna Celtic RFC, where Filip regularly played for the U14 category. The club’s management and teammates expressed their admiration for his determination to travel across borders for rugby.
“Filipp will forever remain in our hearts not only as a talented rugby player, but also as a valued teammate and friend. He strengthened our U14 team and regularly traveled from Bratislava to attend training sessions and matches with us. He will forever remain part of the Celtic rugby family,” the club said.
The Viennese club said goodbye to Filip with a strong rugby slogan: “Once a Celt, always a Celt – never forgotten” (Once a Celt, forever a Celt – never forgotten). Both rugby clubs express their deepest and most sincere condolences to Filip’s family, friends, teammates and all those close to him at this incredibly difficult time.
