Katz Calls Time on Stellar Playing Career
After countless years playing at the highest levels, Hakoah Sydney City East FC defender Michael Katz will call time on his playing career at the end of the current Men’s State League 1 season.
A true servant of the game, Katz has been an integral part of Hakoah’s success in the last few seasons, and his commitment on the playing field and around the club has been second to none. But what makes the story even more fascinating is that Michael Katz, along with being a tough tackling right-back, is also the current president of Hakoah Sydney City East FC, a combination you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere else across this level of football.
An experienced leader and veteran on the field, Katz has been instrumental as president, with much ground work being laid throughout the club to ensure a bright future, “Because of my connections to the community and experience at the higher levels, I was approached about the role, and now we’re looking to continue to take the club in the right direction”.
Success has followed Katz throughout his career and his colourful football journey has included stints overseas in Germany and the USA, whilst closer to home Katz has won numerous titles with Canberra Deakin in the ACT Premier League, as well as a NSW PL Premiership with Belconnen Blue Devils in 2004. Katz is also long remembered for his time with the Sutherland Sharks, where he was vice captain to the legendary George Souris during a successful period that saw him claim a NSW PL Premiership, Cup Medal and Championship. Three years with Gippsland Falcons in the now defunct NSL and winning a promotion in the semi-professional Verbandsliga in Germany, where he was coached by Miroslav Klose’s dad, are some other highlight in his CV.
Most recently Katz linked up with current club Hakoah in 2012, and his time there has coincided with a resurgence for the club, “I’ve been lucky enough that since coming to Hakoah we’ve won the Premiership twice and one Grand Final (so far!)”.
A juggling act has ensued for Katz over the last two seasons as the popular defender has divided his commitments between the field and the boardroom, but Katz has taken it in his stride, “It’s definitely been challenging, but credit to the players and to Robbo (First Grade coach Mark Robertson) for helping me to facilitate the task. I make sure I focus on only one role at a time and give as much as I can”.
As his playing days wind down Katz is looking towards the next chapter, “I have been doubling as club president and right-back for the last two seasons now, and am excited about focusing on running the club alongside my good friends and also recently retired Adam Joseph and Rani Rimmer”.
With Hakoah already into this year’s Grand Final, you wouldn’t bet against Katz hanging up the boots as a Grand Final winner, but rest assured not matter what the result, Michael Katz is just getting started in making his mark away from the field.
– By Diego Munoz
