On August 15, 2025, the Heino Lipu Stadium in Jõhvi hosted an electrifying match between the veterans of the Estonian national team and the veterans of Ida-Virumaa. This event was a vibrant part of the “Green Football” project and the “Veterans’ Alley” initiative, supported by the Just Transition Fund. But let’s take it step by step!
Today, our beloved “Phoenix” club celebrates its 14th birthday! It’s an age when the world is at your feet, and every step brings you closer to your dreams. We received countless heartfelt congratulations from friends, but the greatest gift was the arrival of the legendary veterans of the Estonian national team and the stars of Ida-Virumaa. Coaches Aivar Pohlak and Sergei Zamogilny arrived at the Football House an hour and a half before the match. Aivar brought a small oak tree from Saaremaa as a gift and planted it next to the veterans’ bench. Now, this symbolic oak, the bench, and a monument of gratitude adorn the facade of our Football House.
The president of the Estonian Football Association visited our football museum, toured the training classroom, and inspected the practice halls, which were built with significant support from the Association. Then, the football veterans planted 10 trees near the Heino Lipu Stadium, gifting Jõhvi a new, picturesque alley that symbolizes unity and love for the sport.
But the highlight of the day was, of course, the football match! The stadium came alive with the charismatic Toomas Nõmmiste, whose voice kept the stands buzzing throughout the game. The live broadcast brought the excitement to those who couldn’t attend, thanks to the vibrant commentary by renowned Rene Kundla. Top-notch sound by Denis Ozerov and professional visuals by Ilja Telnov made the broadcast truly unforgettable.
The crowd warmly welcomed the players, who ran onto the field one by one to thunderous applause. Special cheers greeted the referees—the legendary Kaivoja football family: father Raul, son Kevin, and daughter Karolin. The audience roared for coaches Aivar Pohlak and Sergei Zamogilny. The match itself was a showcase of mastery: the veterans displayed deft ball control, sharp strategy, and flawless execution. While the pace wasn’t lightning-fast, the ball moved with speed, and the game captivated everyone!
Around 40 players took the field, each giving their all. Standouts included Ida-Virumaa’s goalkeeper Misha Starodubtsev, whose saves sparked awe, and Estonian national team player Dima Krugov, whose energy inspired all. The coaches worked tirelessly on the sidelines, while the fans created a true festival with drums, horns, and cheers.
The president of the Estonian Football Association praised the event’s excellent organization and warm atmosphere. After the game, the veterans lingered, sharing memories and emotions. Though the Estonian national team won, everyone emerged victorious—players, fans, and organizers alike. We, the organizers, aimed to prove how deeply Ida-Virumaa loves football, and Jõhvi delivered! Dozens of young fans collecting autographs from the stars were living proof of this passion.
