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Klaus keeps kicking goals for soccer at 79
A 79-year-old soccer coach, who continues to dedicate his life to the sport he loves, will be awarded an Honorary Senior Fellowship from the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Otto Klaus will accept the prestigious award at USC’s Graduation Ceremony on 30 September.
Mr Klaus has been coaching soccer for more than four decades including 30 years as a professional coach.
His achievements include a stint playing 1st Division in Germany before moving to Australia in 1964 where he played State league for Bankstown.
Injury woes ended Otto’s playing career and resulted in a move to coaching which included an assistant coach’s role with the Socceroos and the Under 19 Australian team in World Cup elimination games.
During the past nine years, Mr Klaus had donated much of his time to coaching soccer at the University and the more senior teams at the Chancellor Park Soccer Club.
Mr Klaus said receiving the accolade had taken him by surprise.
“It came completely out of the blue and I feel on top of the world,” he said.
“I have received many awards for soccer during my time, including winning championships, but this one is for my volunteer work for the university and the community.
“I expected a handshake and a thank you very much, so I am really thrilled to get this award and so are my family and friends.”
USC Vice-Chancellor Professor Greg Hill, who will present the award, said Mr Klaus deserved recognition for both his professional and voluntary work.
“Otto has demonstrated a high level of professionalism, integrity and commitment as a volunteer soccer coach at the University since 2003, generously donating his time supporting USC’s students, including many international students,” he said.
“Otto’s reputation precedes him with many of our German partners and schools, and he is highly regarded and respected in Australian soccer circles.”
Otto started playing soccer at six years of age and has no plans to shelve the boots anytime soon.
“I am too young to retire, the kids keep me young,” he said.
“For me, this isn’t a job, it comes from the heart.”
— Michelle Widdicombe