Karl Kurz Austrian footballer and coach. Date of Birth: 21.11.1898 Country: Austria

1. Karl Kurz: Austrian Footballer and Coach
2. Professional Playing Career
3. Return to Austria and Retirement
4. International Career
5. Coaching Career and Legacy

Karl Kurz: Austrian Footballer and Coach

Karl Kurz, an Austrian footballer and coach, was born on November 21, 1898, in Klosterneuburg. His passion for football began in his hometown, where he joined the local gymnasium team. After graduating, Kurz moved to Vienna and played for First Vienna FC's youth squad. Despite briefly retiring, he returned to the sport with Floridsdorfer AC's youth team.

Professional Playing Career

In 1915, Kurz signed for Amateure Wien. His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the first team after just three appearances. He then joined Ober St. Veiter SK before being drafted into the Austrian army in May 1916. After suffering a war injury in 1917, Kurz returned to Vienna and resumed playing for Amateure Wien, winning the Austrian championship in 1920. He later had stints at First Vienna FC and FC Simmering before moving to Latvia as a coach in March 1927.

Return to Austria and Retirement

Kurz returned to Vienna in October 1927 and rejoined Amateure Wien, which had since become known as FK Austria Wien. He played for the club until the winter break of the 1928-29 season, when he retired due to leukemia.

International Career

Kurz made his international debut for Austria in November 1919 against Hungary. He earned 32 caps for his country, playing his final match in November 1928. He also represented the Vienna City Select in 15 matches.

Coaching Career and Legacy

After retiring from playing, Kurz became a coach. He served as assistant to Robert Lang at FK Austria Wien before taking over as head coach. In 1931, Kurz moved to Switzerland, where he managed FC Grenchen and FC Basel, leading the latter to victory in the Swiss Cup. Sadly, leukemia claimed Kurz's life in November of that year.