John Motzer built the foundation for Oakland University's successful soccer program. John was the Pioneer coach in the early seventies and was instrumental in the sport receiving varsity status in 1973. He remained as head coach for the next five years and retired from the position in 1977 after serving the program for eight years. Under John's leadership Oakland University had winning seasons in its first five years including three seasons of 10 or more victories. The Pioneers were 11-2-2 in the inaugural campaign as Hall of Honor member Ken Whiteside scored 20 goals, a school record he still shares today. In 1974 another Hall of Honor member, Andy Richters, became the first Pioneer to earn All-Region honors. The year 1976 saw John guide Oakland to national prominence as the squad earned its first NCAA Tournament bid, a feat that is now common place with the soccer program. John had a 48-16-5 record in his five seasons as varsity coach. He was named Mr. Michigan Soccer in 1973 by the Michigan Soccer Association and helped develop coaches for the youth leagues and high schools which had a great deal to do with making those programs as popular and flourishing as they have become. John was also an excellent player, starting his career with the junior teams in Hungary, Austria and Germany. His outstanding career continued upon his arrival in Michigan, and included appearances on 12 Michigan Cup Champions and 11 Michigan League Champions. He also represented the state on 30 occasions in international competition, and was a member of the national amateur champion Carpathia Kickers squad in 1962. |
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