Weisz, Ferenc : Jews In Sports @ Virtual Museum

Weisz, Ferenc

Weisz was considered one of the greatest and most influential players in Hungary's history. He played in 17 games and scored three goals for the Hungarian National team over a 17-year span (1902-1919). A pharmacist by trade, Weisz was the first genuine all-around soccer player in Hungary and one of the first with the ability to use both feet with equal skill.

According to Andrew Handler in From the Ghetto to the Games, Weisz played with a youthful enthusiasm and energy, but his versatility may have hindered his time with the National team. Because he did not play just one position, coaches often left him out of the starting line-up. Nevertheless, Weisz was one of Hungary's most important players during that era and for years to come, coaches would encourage their players to emulate his skills.

Birth and Death Dates:
unknown

Career Highlights:
Weisz began his soccer career in the early 1900s. As a member of FTC in the Hungarian League, he played in 382 games and scored 192 goals for his club during his career. Between 1906-1913, he helped FTC win seven championships in eight years while playing every position on the forward line (at the time, teams played with five forwards, three midfielders, and two defense). FTC also won the Hungary Cup in 1913.

Origin:
Hungary



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References:
encyclopedia of JEWS in sports, by Bernard Postal, Jesse Silver, and Roy Silver (New York: Bloch Publishing Co., 1965)
From the Ghetto to the Games: Jewish Athletes in Hungary, by Andrew Handler (Boulder, Colorado: East European Monographs, 1985)