Aziz Tokat Has Not Left the Pitch for Half a Century

Aziz Tokat, coach of Esnafspor, a club founded by the town's tradesmen in 1963 and competing in the Ordu 2nd Amateur League, still feels the same excitement he felt on the first day. Tokat has been doing this coaching job for 63 years, having started at the age of 24.

Tokat, who has not given up the job despite his advancing age, is preparing players in the under-17 league for matches with his son Kartal Tokat at the Karşıyaka Sports Facilities. Tokat, who said he looks after his health through sports and a regular diet, also said he makes an effort to stay active in daily life.

Tokat said he has no financial expectations from coaching and that he does it gladly. Whenever he has the chance, he visits schools to bring talented young players into the team. Saying he has sent players to various clubs, especially Orduspor, Tokat noted that this brings him great happiness.

Tokat said that people who see him on the pitch are surprised, and that those around him call him "experienced coach" and "old wolf." Stating that he has no thoughts of leaving coaching, Tokat said, "As long as God gives me health, I will continue on my path. This job requires experience. I want to keep going."

Tokat said his biggest supporter is his son Kartal, and announced that they aim to return Esnafspor to the Ordu 1st Amateur League. Kartal Tokat, one of the team's coaches, also said that his father's love for football has not diminished over the years.