Refik Osman Top

Refik Osman Top (born Refik Osman; 1 January 1897 – 26 April 1957), known by his nickname Şiir –literally meaning the Poem–, was a Turkish footballer, referee, coach and sports columnist. Top was one of the most decorated players in the early decades of Turkish football, winning the Istanbul Football League both as a player and manager. He was also the first footballer to play for the Big Three clubs of Turkey.

Top is a prominent figure in the history of Beşiktaş J.K., being one of the founders and initial players of football department and the first international footballer to represent Turkey.

Playing career

Scoring twice, Top had become the first scorer ever of Beşiktaş–Galatasaray rivalry, at Istanbul Football League encounter held on 22 August 1924 at Taksim Stadium. He represented Turkey once on 16 November 1924 against Soviet Union, in a friendly game held at Imeni Vorovskogo Stadium, ended 3–0 for home side. This appearance made him the first Beşiktaş J.K. player ever to play for national team.

Refereeing career Top arbitrated 18 games between 1927 and 1945 in Istanbul Football League and Milli Küme.

Coaching career Top managed Beşiktaş for two tenures. During his first stint, he earned 5 consecutive titles at Istanbul Football League between 1938 and 1943.

Honours

Player Galatasaray Istanbul Football League: 1914–15

Beşiktaş Istanbul Football League: 1923–24

Coach Beşiktaş Istanbul Football League: 1938–39, 1939–40, 1940–41, 1941–42, 1942–43