We are deeply saddened to inform you that Gennadiy Borisovych Kovalenko has passed away — a former referee of the Ukrainian Premier League, match official observer of the UAF, and pedagogical organizer of the «Brigantina» club of the Central Military Polytechnic of Kyiv's Dnipro District.

In March, he would have turned 71...

Gennadiy Borisovych belonged to the generation of experts who shaped Ukrainian refereeing in the early years of independence. After finishing his career as a judge, he worked for many years as an observer of refereeing, remaining principled, attentive, and demanding for young referees.

Parallel to this, he dedicated his heart to youth football. In the «Brigantina» club, he was not just a pedagogical organizer — he was a pillar and an example. For trainees, he was a wise mentor; for colleagues, a person of honor and great soul.

His life was dedicated to football — as a profession, a calling, a service to people.

The light of memory of Gennadiy Borisovych will forever remain in the Ukrainian football community.