Serhiy Krulykovskyi, born on November 28, 1945, in Novograd-Volynskyi, began his sports career playing multiple games but ultimately chose football. He started under the guidance of the former Dynamo Kyiv player Volodymyr Greber and later joined the youth system of Dynamo Kyiv at 18. Known for his elegance, intelligence, and aerial ability, Krulykovskyi became a central defender pioneer in Soviet football, often playing as part of a three-center-back formation. His style combined physical strength with composure and tactical intelligence, making him highly effective both in defense and during set pieces.
Krulykovskyi’s best years at Dynamo Kyiv coincided with the club’s championship streak from 1966 to 1968. Despite recurring injuries, he earned recognition for his courage, precision, and leadership on the field, with teammates praising his ability to neutralize top opponents like Eduard Streltsov. During his Dynamo career, he played 97 league matches across seven seasons, won multiple Soviet championships and cups, and was repeatedly listed among the top 33 players in the USSR. Later, he moved to Chornomorets Odesa and then to Sudnobudivnyk Mykolaiv, ending his playing career at 29 due to a serious spinal injury.
After retiring, Krulykovskyi devoted himself to coaching and youth development, working with children at the Odessa SKA football school and mentoring players such as Volodymyr Musolitin and Oleksandr Holokolosov Jr. He also contributed as a match delegate and served as president of Odessa’s “Leather Ball” club. His legacy in Soviet and Ukrainian football is marked by his pioneering defensive role, elegance on the field, and dedication to developing future generations. He passed away on October 2, 2015.
