Raddy Avramovic proves unity brings championships to Lions

In Singapore, Radojko "Raddy" Avramovic, the longest-serving and most accomplished football coach for the national team, is celebrated for his impactful leadership from 2003 to 2012. During his tenure, he guided the Lions through over 100 matches, culminating in three Asean Football Federation Championship titles in 2004, 2007, and 2012. Avramovic emphasized the significance of player development beyond football skills, expressing fulfillment in witnessing the personal growth of his former players into responsible adults. His recent visit from December 10-19, 2024, alongside former national football fitness coach Aleksandar Bozenko, was prompted by an invitation from the Football Association of Singapore and former player Aleksandar Duric, allowing him the chance to reconnect with players from his past. Avramovic reminisced fondly about his time coaching the team, particularly cherishing the 2012 Suzuki Cup victory that showcased the strength of unity among the players. He noted that despite facing a technically superior Thai team, his squad's cohesiveness and teamwork resulted in triumph. This victory highlighted the importance of establishing strong relationships within the team, fostering a familial atmosphere that he believes should continue to be nurtured in Singaporean football. His perspective emphasizes that these underlying qualities of teamwork are crucial for the ongoing success of the national team. Upon returning to Singapore, Avramovic observed the notable advancements in training facilities, specifically praising the Lion City Sailors Training Centre compared to the older Geylang Lorong 12 field. He expressed optimism about the potential for discovering new talents in Singapore and urged both the federation and coaches to provide adequate guidance for these emerging athletes. Continuing to inspire support for the national team, Avramovic highlighted the necessity of fan engagement, stressing the importance of showing up for all matches, not just high-profile ones against challenging opponents like Japan and South Korea. As he reflects on his legacy, Avramovic balances his professional commitments with personal life, spending time with his wife and two cats in Cacak, Serbia. His family continues to play a significant role, with one grandson pursuing other interests while another shows promise in football, proving that passion for the game remains alive in his family. Through his experience and passion for the sport, Raddy Avramovic hopes to contribute positively to the future of football in Singapore and encourage a stronger community around the national team.