At the age of 84, one of the most prominent Macedonian football figures in history, the legend of Skopje-based Rabotnički, Tomče Filipovski, has passed away.
Numerous successes of the popular club from Debar Maало are associated with his name. Filipovski wore the Rabotnički shirt for 18 years, a period during which he played 633 matches and scored 225 goals. In the 1971/72 season, he was the top scorer in the Yugoslav Second League.
Despite numerous offers to change clubs, including one from Vardar, Filipovski remained loyal to Rabotnički until the end of his playing career. His name will forever be written in golden letters in the history of the Skopje club.
After ending his playing career, Tomče Filipovski continued to actively contribute to the development of football as a prominent sports official and administrator. From 1987 to 1991, he was president of the Football Association of Yugoslavia, during a period filled with significant successes for Yugoslav football.
Under his leadership, the Yugoslavia national football team competed at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul, and finished fifth at the 1990 World Cup in Italy.
With the passing of Tomče Filipovski, Macedonian and Skopje football have lost a great legend, a man who devoted his entire life to football.
The Football Federation of Macedonia extends its sincere condolences to the family, friends, football colleagues and everyone who knew and respected him.
Tomče Filipovski's funeral will be held tomorrow at the Butel City Cemetery in Skopje, from 11:30 to 12:30, in the chapel in Butel.
May he rest in peace.
