In Memory of Mihaly “Mike” Kruzsely, a.k.a. Father Poland
The Yu-Gi-Oh! community mourns the passing of Mihaly “Mike” Kruzsely, known as Father Poland, a beloved and respected figure for nearly two decades.
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Mihaly “Mike” Kruzsely, known to many in the Goat Format community as Father Poland, who left us suddenly on May 2, 2025, at the age of 66.
Mike was a cherished presence in the Yu-Gi-Oh! community for nearly two decades, having first entered the scene in the early 2000s as a way to bond with his son, Ted. That bond blossomed into something remarkable—Ted would go on to make Top 16 at the 2007 Shonen Jump Championship, and Mike became a fixture in the community in his own right.His love for the game wasn’t just about the cards—it was about the people. Whether it was casual locals, online discussions, or premier events like the many Goat Grand Prix that he attended, Mike made lasting impressions. Opponents
always remembered his sense of humor, good sportsmanship, and the way he could laugh at the wild turns of a duel.
One player recalled:
“At Cleveland GGP 2024, we had the most grindy Game 3. I attacked into an empty hand and he flips Morphing Jar—draws five, all three Thunder Dragons among them. We both just started rolling laughing. That was Mike—win or lose, he was there for the fun of it.”
Mike’s legacy stretches far beyond recent events. As far back as the historic era of the format, his status as staple of the community was known. This included early online spaces, including the old Pojo.com forums. Players from Windsor to beyond shared stories and inside jokes, referring to him as something of a legend:
- - “In Windsor, Father Poland is God [...]”
- - “I still need to meet this Father Poland. Bring him to Sluggers.”
These aren’t just internet comments—they’re pieces of history that show just how much Mike meant to the community. He wasn’t just a player—he was a personality, a mentor, and a warm, generous soul.
Outside of the game, Mike was a devoted family man, a loving father to Lillian and Ted, and the life partner of Elizabeth. He spent over 30 years working for the Greater Essex County District School Board, where his kindness and work ethic touched countless lives. His favorite saying, “Better you believe it,” perfectly captured his spirit—optimistic, energized, and always ready with a smile.And as his obituary lovingly notes: “Mike was an avid Yu-Gi-Oh! player… and did not forget his Sinister Serpent in the graveyard.”
Our community has lost a true original. Whether you knew him in person, faced him across the table, or simply read his name on a decades-old forum post, Mike’s impact was felt. He will be missed, but he will not be forgotten.Rest in peace, Father Poland.
