The community of Trabzon, the club Trabzonspor and indeed the whole of Turkish football has mourned the loss of a long-time facilitator, player and coach, Orhan Kaynak, who dedicated himself to his footwear for his whole life.
Football Woes met them on Tuesday, when news came through to them regarding the sudden death of Orhan Kaynak who had a heart attack at Karadeniz Technical University Farabi Hospital while receiving treatment at Trabzonspor's premises. Kayak's life was brought to a sudden and tragic close as despite quick medical intervention and the valiant struggles of healthcare professionals, the right-hander was unable to be saved.
Orhan Kaynak is a name that has long been associated with Trabzonspor. But, after the incident of that fateful day, his name has been indelibly associated with Farabi Hospital in Karadeniz Technical University where his football journey came to an end in his life.
And Kaynak, who was on duty at Trabzonspor's training base, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, reports said. Emergents responded promptly and he was rushed to the Farabi hospital in Karadeniz Technical University, which is one of the better hospitals in the Black Sea region. He was treated there with all the care in the world and the doctors and others do everything to save his life.
Hope lived on among family, colleagues, supporters and those in the football community eagerly waiting for updates, for several hours. But despite doctors' best efforts, Orhan Kaynak died at Karadeniz Technical University Farabi Hospital that continues to resonate throughout Turkish football.
Karadeniz Technical University Farabi Hospital has become an important part of these last moments for Kaynak, as it played a role in the tragedy of his life. The hospital's advanced emergency care and medical expertise earns it a reputation and status, however, it's also becoming a hospital where one of the most loyal members of Trabzonspor passed away.
Trabzonspor issued an official statement that included expressions of utmost sadness for the defection. “The club said that Kaynak embodies Trabzonspor's values and spirit in all of his career.” As a player, coach and mentor, he was associated with the club for many years and was beloved by many generations of fans.
It went on to highlight Orhan Kaynak was not just a football professional. He was the emblem of a family, commitment and integrity. His talent and commitment to Trabzonspor ensured that he carved out a lasting legacy for the club's fans and fans of football in general.
For many fans, Kaynak was a continuity. He was a link between two different periods of Trabzonspor’s history and helped to secure the club's traditions; at the same time, he was a part of the club's history as well. His success was not only tactical and technical, but also on the ground. His dedication, professionalism and hard work that was based on the same values that have been an integral part of the club for years was inspirational to those around him.
The news of his death at the Farabi Hospital in the Karadeniz Technical University was reported and condolences were sent by all sides of the country. Former teammates, coaches, football administrators and supporters all reminisced about a man who was respected not only by his football accomplishments, but with his humility and kindness.
He was viewed by many as one who worked tirelessly without making a fuss, but always had a positive impact. His outstanding care towards players and his belief in the success of Trabzonspor earned respect and poetry in the club.
His death has left a deep impact on his country, especially in his hometown of Trabzon, where football holds a special place in the hearts of the people. To its residents and supporters, Orhan Kaynak was more than just a former player or coach, he was a family man. In the years he had focussed on Trabzonspor and was an integral and familiar part of the family in that club.
Karadeniz Technical University Farabi Hospital has been a name that has come to be synonymous with the place where he was saved by doctors from dying. It has turned into a place which will forever be remembered by the name Orhan Kaynak. The hospital now plays a sad part in the tale of a man whose life was dedicated to football and his service to his club.
His demise also highlights the unreliability of cardiac emergencies. It has left many of his associates in disbelief, and a warning to others, about how quick it can all happen, even for someone who was still involved in the sport he loved.
But in the midst of all the tears, fans are selecting to identify with the incredible quality that this guy has left behind. The principles of loyalty, perseverance, humility and dedication that informed Orhan Kaynak's life still ring true in Trabzonspor. His friends and colleagues recall a man whose primary goal is always to put the team ahead of himself, and who was never looking for attention.
As the remembrances live on, it's evident that Orhan Kaynak's legacy will persist far beyond his own lifetime. His legacy of giving will be shared with future generations of players and coaches and his name will be remembered by all supporters of Trabzonspor.
The tale of Orhan Kaynak and Karadeniz Technical University Farabi Hospital is a tale of sadness, but it is also a tale of great respect. The hospital is where they say the final moments took place, and it's where the football world united in hope, prayer and memory in his battles.
However his name will remain in Trabzonspor's history and his accomplishments will be remembered by everyone he knew and his devotion to the club of his dreams will never be forgotten. His untimely death marks the end of a prowess-filled career but his impact on Trabzonspor will be felt for years to come for the city club.