Persib Bandung Remembers Dr. Rafi Ghani, Here's His Journey to Becoming a True Bobotoh

Kapanlagi.com - The world of Indonesian football is in mourning. Shocking news comes from the large family of Persib Bandung. The highly respected team doctor, Muhammad Raffi Ghani, has passed away on Monday night (24/12) at the age of 55. The figure who is fondly called Dr. Rafi has dedicated more than 15 years of his life to Maung Bandung, making him an inseparable part of the team's journey.

Through its official Instagram account @persib, this pride of the West Java community expressed profound sorrow. "We express our deepest condolences on the passing of Persib's Team Doctor Muhammad Raffi Ghani. Thank you for your extraordinary dedication and loyalty to Persib," they wrote on Tuesday (24/12/2024).

Dr. Rafi's departure leaves an unforgettable mark, not only because of his service but also the unique story that accompanies him. Who would have thought that this doctor, so beloved by Bobotoh, was once unfamiliar with Persib Bandung? A fact that may surprise many, considering how close Dr. Rafi's relationship is with the team that has become the pride of the West Java community. His memories and dedication will always live in the hearts of every fan.

1. An Unexpected Beginning

The story of Dr. Rafi Ghani with Persib Bandung began in 2009 when the team secretary, Yudiana, contacted him with a surprising offer: to become the team doctor.

For Dr. Rafi, this was a huge surprise, as he was previously more familiar with other sports like boxing, wrestling, and basketball, and had never imagined himself involved in football, especially with a team as big as Persib that has fanatic supporters.

Although initially hesitant and feeling inexperienced on the green field, his enthusiasm to take on new challenges and contribute to the world of football ignited, making it an unforgettable bold step.

2. Family Support and Medical License

Initially shocked by the incoming offer, Dr. Rafi immediately discussed it with his wife, who provided full support, fully understanding her husband's passion for continuously learning and growing, especially in the field of sports medicine.

With renewed spirit and family support, Dr. Rafi flew to Jakarta to take care of his medical license, even without knowing who the manager and coach of Persib were at that time — who turned out to be Pak Haji Umuh Muchtar and Jaya Hartono. How unique it was, he entered the world of football with minimal knowledge about this pride of Bandung team.

However, his spirit and dedication were undeniable; Dr. Rafi quickly adapted and showed a high commitment in carrying out his role as the team doctor, always ready to provide the best care for the players, both on the training field and during matches.

3. Serving for 15 Years

For more than 15 years, Dr. Rafi Ghani has been an inseparable figure from Persib Bandung, carving a path of brilliant achievements such as the champion of the Indonesian Super League 2014, the President's Cup 2015, and Liga 1 2023/2024. In good times and bad, he has always accompanied the team, providing moral support and motivation to the players, while prioritizing their health and safety.

His unparalleled dedication and loyalty make him not just a doctor, but also a friend and family to the players, especially for those far from home. With deep concern, Dr. Rafi is always ready to listen to their grievances, offer advice, and be a warm father figure for the young players, making him one of the best team doctors Persib has ever had.

4. A Friendly and Beloved Figure

Dr. Rafi Ghani is a figure known not only for his expertise but also for his warmth and closeness to the players. He is always ready to provide information about the team's health, build good relationships with the media crew, and is even regarded as a father by some players—a reflection of his sincere affection.

The friendliness and attention he shows make him loved by many, both within the Persib environment and outside the field. With his sociable and respectful nature, Dr. Rafi's departure leaves a deep wound for all who knew him, especially the players and officials of Persib who have long shared precious moments with him.

5. Reducing Activities Due to Health

Since last season, Dr. Rafi has started to reduce his involvement with Persib to maintain his declining health. Although he needs time to rest and recover, his spirit to support the team has never faded.

Even while undergoing intensive treatment in the hospital due to a drop in platelets in November 2024, Dr. Rafi's concern for the players remained strong. The unfortunate news about his condition made all the players and officials of Persib anxious, and they kept praying for his recovery so he could return to support the team.

Interestingly, Dr. Rafi continues to show deep concern by visiting Dedi Kusnandar, who had just suffered a serious injury in a match against Barito Putera. This action illustrates the great love and care Dr. Rafi has for his extended family at Persib.

6. When did Dr. Rafi Ghani start joining Persib Bandung?

In 2009, Dr. Rafi Ghani officially became part of the large family of Persib Bandung after receiving an exciting offer from the team secretary, Yudiana.

7. What achievements has Persib Bandung attained during Dr. Rafi Ghani's tenure as team doctor?

Under Dr. Rafi Ghani's leadership as team doctor, Persib Bandung has achieved various remarkable accomplishments, including winning the Indonesian Super League title in 2014, the President's Cup in 2015, and Liga 1 in 2023/2024, making the team's journey even more glorious in the national football arena.

8. Why did Dr. Rafi Ghani reduce his activities with Persib?

Dr. Rafi Ghani, a figure known for his close ties with Persib, was forced to reduce his involvement with the team since last season due to a decline in his health condition. He has now chosen to take a step back, giving himself valuable time to rest and focus on the recovery process, in order to return fit and ready to contribute in the future.

9. Besides football, what other sports has Dr. Rafi Ghani been involved with?

Not only mastering the green field, Dr. Rafi Ghani also has a wealth of experience in other sports arenas. With expertise as a sports doctor, he has accompanied boxers in the ring, supported wrestlers in their struggles, and provided medical support to the men's national basketball team.

(kpl/srr)