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Coen DelsenDutch football coach and football player
Date of Birth: 05.10.1900
Country:  Netherlands |
Content:
Konrad Delesen: A Dutch Football Legend
Early Life and Playing CareerKonrad Delesen was born on October 5, 1900, in Amsterdam to Hendricus Delesen, a stonemason, and Johanna Maria Kok. As a young man, Konrad followed in his father's footsteps and became a stonemason. However, his passion for football led him to join the second team of Ajax Amsterdam in 1918. His brother, Hendricus, was already a member of the first team. Konrad made his way into the Ajax first team in 1919, playing as a defender while Hendricus played as a forward. He remained with Ajax until 1924, when he transferred to Blauw-Wit Amsterdam.
Marriage and Family
On August 11, 1932, Konrad married Mitie de la Bie, a 23-year-old from Amsterdam. They welcomed a son, Bernardus, in 1934, and a daughter, Helena, in 1940.
Coaching Career
After retiring from playing, Konrad pursued a career in coaching. In 1936, he became the head coach of NEC Nijmegen. Despite a promising start, NEC struggled in the second half of the season, finishing second to last. Konrad was replaced by Bertus Schoester the following season.
During World War II, from 1942 to 1945, Konrad coached PSV Eindhoven. In 1947-1948, he led DVV Amsterdam to the Dutch Cup final. He returned to NEC in July 1954, but resigned in 1956 in favor of Austrian manager Ferdi Silz. He continued with NEC as an assistant coach for the 1956-1957 season. Konrad's final stint as head coach of NEC lasted five months in 1957.
Legacy
Konrad Delesen made significant contributions to Dutch football as both a player and a coach. He was a member of the Ajax and Blauw-Wit teams and coached several Dutch clubs throughout his career. His legacy continues to inspire aspiring footballers in the Netherlands.
