| United German Hungarians of Philadelphia and Vicinity | |
|---|---|
GH's Logo |
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| Abbreviation | GH |
| Motto | Continuing a Proud Tradition |
| Formation | 1910 |
| Purpose/focus | The purpose of this organization shall be to serve the welfare of its members, and the general community, in the realms of Culture, Social Recreation, and Sport. (ARTICLE II Purpose, of the Constitution and By-laws) |
| Location | 4666 Bristol Road, Oakford PA 19053 |
| President | Bill Galgon |
| Main organ | The Monthly Progress |
| Affiliations | USASA, Gauverband Nordamerika, Landesverband der Donauschwaben USA |
| Website | http://ughclub.us |
United German-Hungarians is an American social club, founded in 1910, as the Banater Männerchor. Although the club has been home to other auxiliary groups, soccer and cultural dancing are the two that have stood the test of time. The first soccer team was started in 1922, playing exhibition games only. The German Hungarian Cultural Group was founded in 1965 by the wives of the soccer players in order keep the children busy. Dance groups existed before within this organization; however 1965, was the official formation of this group.
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The original name of this organization, the Banater Männerchor, comes from the region, Banat in which the founders, and many of the members today hail from. These people were Germans within this region. The meaning of the current nomenclature, The United German Hungarians, is often confusing. The title refers to the people of Banat, who were Germans in Hungary, and not a union of 'Germans' and 'Hungarians'. This is the reason for the German-Hungarians, seen on many documents. Although the hyphen is no longer used, its purpose served to show that these are one people, not a conglomeration of two groups.
From 1910 through October 1939, the organization was called the Banater Männerchor. In 1922, the Bannater Athletic Club was formed and operated under the "mother club".
In 1930 the "mother club" stood firm as the Banater Männerchor. The sport group changed its name from the Bannater Athletic Club to the German Hungarian Sport Club. It would be nine years before the parent group changed its name along similar lines.
At a directors meeting on Oct 2, 1938 it was reported that membership had dwindled. If the name of the organization were changed, it was believed, at least 300 members would renew. A motion was made and was carried unanimously that all chartered German-Hungarian clubs in the area be contacted in order to arrange a general meeting at which a general merger should be discussed. At a special meeting on June 29, 1939 a special committee reported that every effort was being made to unite all the German Hungarians in the area to join in one organization to be known as the United German Hungarians of Philadelphia and Vicinity. Banater Maennerchor was strongly urged to support this movement. After a lengthy discussion, the decision was made to join the new organization. At a special general membership meeting on October 24, 1939, it was also decided that Banater Maennerchor would accept the name United German Hungarians of Philadelphia and Vicinity. The name has since remained the same.
The Shield (Logo) is the official graphic representation of the United German Hungarians.
The official Shield represents the continuation of the Unity of German Hungarians through their traditional values and the organization’s confidence in moving surely into the future. The interlocking “GH” represents the United German Hungarians as a people, past, present, and future. The “1910” Represents the founding year of the organization. The “Keystone”, representing the Keystone State of Pennsylvania, has been a symbol of the organization for many years and will continue to represent where they live, work and come together. Collectively the “stars” represent all members of the United German Hungarians and honor their individual and collective accomplishments. The stars also represent national honors, particularly: US National Soccer Championships in 1965, and 1999 and the Gauverband Nordamerika Preisplatteln Competition Gold Medals in 1999, and 2007.
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| Proportion | 10:10 |
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| Adopted | July 2, 1994 |
| Design | Dark blue on one side, with symbols representing the contemporary German Hungarians. Dark red reverse depicts the schwope homeland |
The current flag of the German Hungarians was obtained and blessed in 1994. It was purchased from a company in Germany and created according to the specifications of the club. Emily Fricker served as "Fahnenmutter" for the flag.
The flag's contrasting sides represent the past and present. One side recognizes those who came from the original homelands of central and southeastern Europe. This beautiful depiction of a fictional village captures the common landscapes found in the farming regions of southern Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. The natural resources, architectural renderings and geographic details evoke the essence of life as it was in the old country. While idealic in its depiction of family, work, and church, it must not be forgotten that great strength, determination and hard work were necessary to preserve their way of life. The beauty of the region's common flowers - Kornblumen, Rosmarein, Edelweiss, MohnBlumen and Enzian - complete the embracing circle topped by the flag's motto. "Treu, der Sitte, treu der Tracht, treu der Heimat" honors the beliefs these people carried with them as they resettled time and again: Faithful to the traditions, faithful to the costume, faithful to the homeland. This philosophy was surely a factor in the formation of the Banater Männerchor in 1910.
The second side of the flag represents the United German Hungarians today. Their current roots are emphasized at the top by a trio of national symbols. Philadelphia is home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, and is where William Penn's "Holy Experiment" began. These hold immense significance to every immigrant in search of freedom. Their clubhouse today is the place where they come together to meet, to socialize, to work, and to play. It is the center point for many facets which comprise the life of their club. It is a place where culture flourishes in the forms of traditional and contemporary German and American dance music. It is where athletes young and old, male and female, take pleasure in the sport of soccer. It is the place where various aspects of the old and new are alive and borne by the members of this club. It is a force for growth, for sharing and for continuing.
And so it came to be that in 1906, a group of 9 men from the Banat region of Hungary founded the Banater Arbeiter Verein. Naturally they had a choral section (Gesangs-Sektion), which for reasons now unknown, was suspended by the parent organization on November 13, 1910. The suspended section met three days later on November 16 to discuss its future and it decided to form the BANATER MAENNERCHOR. A temporary eight man board of directors was appointed for a three month period. Peter Schock was elected President. August Beuchse was unanimously elected musical director and the first rehearsal was set for November 23, 1910 in Fred Schnabel’s "saloon" at Germantown Avenue and Oxford Street. On November 27, 1910 Banater Maennerchor with forty eight members, was accepted as a member by the Vereinigte Arbeiter Gesangverein von Nord Ost Staaten (The United Workers Singing Society of the North-Eastern States). The new organization (BANATER) acquired temporary quarters in the hall an Eighth Street and Columbia Avenue, occupied by MAENNERCHOR RHEINGOLD and on December 9, 1910 they held their Founders Day Festival with the Karpathan Saengerbund and the Arbeiter Maennerchor Philadelphia as guest performers.
BANATER MAENNERCHOR grew swiftly and the final result was that BANATER MAENNERCHOR purchased the hall at Eighth and Columbia from RHEINGOLD and also swallowed up its membership. BANATER very quickly became the rendezvous for German Hungarians of Philadelphia, and the site at Eighth and Columbia remained their “home” until 1923. In 1911 a school-section was created to teach the youngsters the reading and writing of the German language, mathematics, basic sciences, and mechanical drawing for the boys, and sewing and embroidery for the girls. Also, a children’s choral group was judged good enough to participate in a mass choral festival held at the Old Metropolitan Opera House at Broad and Popular Streets. All instruction was provided freely and willingly by the members of the organization. In 1912 a female choral group was assembled under the name "BANATER FRAUEN-CHOR” On May 8, 1914 amid much fanfare, a "Fahnenweihe" of the new club flag was held. The officials of the Arbeiter Maennerchor of Philadelphia served as the godfathers. The flag made its first public appearance in 1914 at the Singersfest of the United Singers of Northeast United States in Baltimore, Maryland. On December 10, 1922 the BANATER ATHLETIC CLUB was organized. In March 1923 the Banater acquired the premises at 2007-13 N. Second Street and the former Columbia Hall became the Banater Maennerchor Hall. A library, was instituted in this period, and had been accumulated over the years. In retrospect, it seems almost prophetic that in 1930 the sport group changed its name from the BANATER ATHLETIC CLUB to GERMAN HUNGARIAN SPORT CLUB nine years before the parent group changed its name along similar lines.
During the early Thirties, this country experienced the greatest economic depression in its history and this naturally affected all forms of social activity. Having very little extra spending money, many people sought their entertainment at home, and consequently attendance at the social clubs dropped sharply. In some cases this attendance was never regained and the organizations were forced to disband. The BANATER MAENNERCHOR had a rough time, but with a pull here and a push there, they somehow managed to keep going. A fine example of the solidarity of the members was displayed in 1932 when everyone pitched in to provide several days food and shelter in the clubhouse for a few hundred “hunger marchers" who were passing through Philadelphia on their pitiful journey to Washington, DC. There were also some bright spots along the road. Weekly Singstunde were held, in this era.It was in 1939 that the Name of the Organization ceased to be the Banater Maennerchor, and was changed to THE UNITED GERMAN HUNGARIANS. At some point in this era, two new bowling alleys were installed in the city clubhouse, and a league was started. During the early 1940s, when many of the young men were in the service of the country, burden of maintaining the fine traditions of the sports group fell upon the shoulders of the Junior Section and they came through in fine style under the able guidance of Teddy Kereczmann, Mike Lambert and Pete Noel. Wrestling and weight-lifting groups were formed, and a tremendous innovation was made with the organization of a Girls’ Section. In 1945 a soccer team, composed mainly of products of the Junior Section, was placed in the first division of the Philadelphia Soccer League where representation was maintained until 1959, when the organization left this league along with other area clubs and founded the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania with their own Frank Folmer as president. In January 1946 they achieved success in German Hungarian circles when the first issue of the "Monthly News" (now the “Monthly Progress”) appeared. IN MAY Of 1946 the GERMAN-HUNGARIAN BUSINESS MEN'S ASSOCIATION decided to merge and turned over its assets to the UNITED GERMAN HUNGARIANS OF PHILADELPHIA AND VICINITY. This was when the GH acquired its current property. Many of the relatives, mostly, women, elderly, and children, still living in Banat of the members of the GH were starved and beaten to death in the years after the war (1944–1948) In Romania, the Germans lost their property and means of production without compensation. It was the "landsleit" in the U.S.A. who contributed material and moral support to their distressed and persecuted relatives and friends. Many escaped from their old homeland to Austria and Germany. From there, tens of thousands went abroad, mainly to the U.S.A. and Canada, others to Brazil, Argentina, and even Australia. Many of these new immigrants joined the club and have remained active throughout the years. New ideas and thoughts were now mingled with the old. The young people who joined the sport club in the fifties were fun loving, happy and worked hard to keep the German Hungarian Sport Club on top. This group of 1950’s immigrants brought with them renewed dedication towards success in a changing world. It was through further development by members of this group together with the existing members that led to an Organization and Community that flourished through for the next 50 years. Many of these are among the men and women who became the backbone of the organization for the next fifty years.
The 1960s have been referred to as the Golden years of the German Hungarians existence. The philosophy of the organization, and that of the people that make it up, is never one, to label a certain era as their peak. They live in the present, however they are always looking to the future. They are proud of their past, and look to it for guidance, but with the goal to be better than what they have already accomplished. However, the 1960s was one of the most successful decades of the German Hungarians existence. In 1961, the property at 2nd and Norris streets, was sold and the organization moved itself to the Neshaminy Falls property in Oakford, where it still resides today. Over the years many improvements have been made to the grounds. In 1962 work began on a new constitution, and it was adopted by the Life members on March 2, 1963. The ground was broken for the current clubhouse, on March 28, 1965. The year 1965 was a really momentous one for the Club. A new Constitution, the start of a new building, and on June 27 winning the National Amateur Soccer Championship with a resounding victory over St. Ambrose of St. Louis. A few weeks later the team also achieved an unprecedented fifth successive championship in the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania. On January 29, 1966 the new building was formally opened amidst much fanfare. It was a really splendid affair which presaged many more to follow. Two months later to the day, on March 29, the old building was demolished. In 1968 youth once again came to the fore, and Werner Fricker became President, succeeding Frank Kirsch, who had literally been one of the hardest working Presidents in the Club's history. This human dynamo, Werner Fricker, had been involved in many of the Club's projects (in addition to captaining our National Amateur Championship Soccer Team) and it was under his direction that the Club acquired an additional six acres of adjoining ground for future development of our facilities.
In 1971 the Major Soccer Team won the Eastern United States Amateur Championship and traveled to Chicago to play the Chicago Kickers. The score at halftime was 4-4. The Kickers won in overtime 6-5. The seventies saw the Youth Soccer Program peak as our teams brought many awards and trophies to our Club. July 14, 15, 16, 1972 saw the celebration of "Fifty Years in Sports and Soccer” Besides all the marvelous happenings during this three day celebration, a very informative Souvenir Book was prepared featuring all the details of the sports activities over the years. 1973 was to be the year that the Club would charter an entire plane for “The Flight of the Century” on a trip to Germany. Approximately 150 people planned for this trip. While many of their members were looking forward to this trip which would take place from June 30 to August 5, a "catastrophe" struck the German Hungarians! A destructive fire reduced the beautiful clubhouse to a heap of rubble. The membership of the GH rebuilt their clubhouse, and it was opened in on May 5, 1973. During the 1973 trip to Germany the GH played their first youth international game during this festival, United German Hungarians vs. T.sv.Waldhausen. The game ended with a 4-4 tie. September 1978 was the initiation of the club's three-day Kirchweihfest. 1975 saw the formation of the club's first girls soccer team. In 1977 the major team made history by reaching final of the U.S. Open Cup and the U.S National Amateur Cup competitions. Even though both games were lost, the club's name could be found in every sport section of publications across the country. The reserve team won their first championship of the United Soccer League of Pennsylvania.
On December 10, 1922, the Banater Männerchor social club formed the Banater Athletic Club which included several sports, with soccer as the main emphasis. The original soccer team, which played only exhibition games during its first season, consisted of: Mayersfeld, Ehing, Striefter, Halper, Kaitor, John Hof, Schnieider, Sadler, Koeller, Schuster and Gehweiler. The team entered the Football Association of Eastern Pennsylvania and District and in the fall of 1923, they joined the Allied League Third Division. By this time, the club had over 400 members and a reserve team was formed. In 1926, the club purchased land on the corner of Frankford Avenue and Robbins Street to play its home games.[1] That year also saw the club playing its first game away from Philadelphia, a 1-1 tie with the Baltimore Kickers. In 1927 the first team entered the Second Division of the National Soccer League of Philadelphia, earning promotion to the First Division in 1928. In 1930, the team became known as the German-Hungarians. In 1932, the first team moved up to the Pennsylvania League. In 1936, the club formed a third team which entered the Philadelphia Workers League and three years later a youth system was established which tended to compete against the Lighthouse Boys Club. In 1939, the team changed its name to The United German Hungarians of Philadelphia and Vicinity, better known as the United German-Hungarians. The onset of World War II saw a significant decline in the club's fortunes which persisted into the 1950s. However, in 1954, Werner Fricker joined the club. He would spend his fifteen year playing career with United German-Hungarians in addition to filling several administrative positions. In 1959, the club as instrumental in forming the United Soccer League of Philadelphia which operated as an "outlaw" league until 1962. However, the league attracted several of the top teams in Philadelphia despite the refusal of the United States Football Federation to recognize it. The German-Hungarians finished second in 1960, then won six consecutive championships. In 1965, the club purchased a facility in Oakford, Pennsylvania where it plays its home games. That year, the team won the 1965 National Amateur Cup. The German-Hungarians also finished second in the 1977 and 1993 U.S. Open Cups.
The property in Oakford has had two clubhouses. The first, known as "The Shack", and the second, being the current building.
In May 1946, The United German Hungarians acquired this property, when the "German-Hungarian Business Men's Association" (a group of members of the Banater Maennerchor, who were engaged in private enterprise, acquired this land in 1933) decided to merge and turned over its assets. In the period between 1946–1963, the GH operated two clubhouses, and this one was often referred to as the "Summer Club". In 1963 when the City Club was sold, The Oakford property was improved, in order to make it the primary location.
On March 28, 1965 the ground for the new Club House was broken by President Frank Kirsch. On January 1966 the new building was opened. Later that year the old building was demolished.
On February 3, 1973 catastrophe struck the German Hungarians. Over night the clubhouse, just opened 7 years prior, caught fire, destroying most of the inside of the building. The members rebuilt their home by hand. Every weekend members arrived in Oakford to continue rebuilding. These members were not only tradesmen, but members who had the drive to rebuild their home. On May 5, 1973, only three months since the Disaster, the building was open again.
The Main Hall has high-quality acoustics, a band stage, and a large permanent parquet dance floor. The facility can comfortably seat small parties or large parties of up to 350 people.
Also known as The Alpine Bar can be used for groups up to 50. It includes seating areas, a fully stocked bar, and a large-screen television.
Also known as the Trophy Bar. Includes a seating area, fully stocked bar, and two televisions tuned to soccer games. With its iconic GH red bartop, and dark paneling on the walls this is the meeting place for the social membership. This is the true home of the GH SuperFans. Trophy cases, displaying the soccer team's many accomplishments, rim the room. The walls are decorated with plaques gifts and photographs, as well as the many plaques won by the GH Schuhplattlers.
The Board Room can seat 15 for quiet meetings.
Our large outdoor picnic area has a separate full-service bar pavilion and kitchen. The outdoor stage, large wooden dance floor, and children's play areas are shaded and cool in the summer.
The German Hungarians own and operate 4 full size Soccer fields numbered 1-4. Field 1, is located in the stadium closest to the Clubhouse. Fields 2-4 are located on an upper complex. These fields have hosted numerous Regional and National events. Specifically The National Youth Cups Finals in 1988, and The US National Cup Finals in 1989, 1994, 2000, 2002, & 2010. In 2011 the German Hungarians hosted the 2011 US National Danube Swabian Soccer Tounament. Games were played on three of the four fields. Tournament In 1993 the facilities hosted the Germany women's national football team and the world champion United States women's national soccer team. The German Women's team was based at the GH for almost 10 days in April, of 1993. They trained on the fields and the club staff handled their catering needs.
| Field 1 | |
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| 1 | |
Stadium - GH's Field 1 |
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| Full name | United German Hungarian's Field 1 |
| Location | 4666 Bristol Road, Oakford, PA 19053 |
| Built | 1946 |
| Renovated | 1963, 1989 |
| Operator | GH Groundhogs |
| Surface | grass |
| Scoreboard | yes |
| Capacity | 2,000 |
The stadium field is the home field of the Major Team. The building of this field took place 1946, when the property was acquired. In 1963, new seating, and lights were added. By 1989 it was completely renovated. Additional seating, a new roof at the grandstand, as well as a scoreboard, fencing, lighting and irrigation systems were added. In addition to the 1,000 seats in the stadium, spectators often find places on the hill behind the south goal, as well as in their cars, below the scoreboard area. This field is home to the very infamous "Consultants Corner." Located in the north corner of the stadium, it is dreaded by many players in the United League of PA. This corner of the stands, is the gathering place for the SuperFans of the German Hungarian Major Team. The SuperFans, are a select few dedicated fans who never miss a game. Its rare to witness a league or cup game, when the SuperFans are quiet. The 1965 National Amateur Championship game was played on this field. The stadium hosted various International teams. In 1990 our Major Team hosted the United States men's national soccer team in their preparation for the 1990 FIFA World Cup. This game ended in a 1-0 win for the US. Also in 1990 our Major Team hosted the Malta national football team losing 2-0. In 2011 The German Hungarians hosted the National Danube Swabian Soccer Tournament, and the Final game was played on this field, where the German Hungarians came out victorious over the Chicago Green White Soccer Club. From 1975-1981 The German Hungarian's biggest most important traditional event, The German Hungarian Kirchweihfest, was hosted on his field. In July 1994 the Fahneweihe for the club's new flag was held in the stadium and included close to 1000 participants. Many events have taken place on the stadium field. In 2010, The German Hungarians hosted the 2010 Landestreffen der Donauschwaben USA und Kanada, and the Parade was held on the field. Over 16 Dance groups from across the United States and Canada performed together a friendship dance in the stadium.
The Banater Maennerchor acquired temporary quarters in the hall at Eighth Street and Columbia, in Philadelphia. The Banater Maennerchor grew swiftly and purchased the hall, from the Rheingold.
In March 1923 the Banater Maennerchor purchased the hall at this location, and the former Columbia Hall became the Banater Maennerchor Hall. In the period between 1946–1963, the GH operated two clubhouses, and this one was often referred to as the "City Club". In 1947 the City club was renovated, creating one of the most beautiful social clubs in the area. This property was sold in 1962.
In January 1946 they achieved success in German Hungarian circles when the first issue of the "Monthly News" (now the “Monthly Progress”) appeared. They have been publishing the newsletter, the Monthly Progress, for over 60 years. In that time there have been 13 editors, each leaving their mark trying to bring an interesting and informative newsletter to the members. The present editor, Emily Fricker, has held this position for over 30 years. In 2002, the Progress got a new look as a new masthead was designed by Joe Hartmann and perfected by Dieter Abendroth and his staff at Anchor Printing. In 2004, they began printing the newsletter themselves. On April 1, 2005 they began to send the newsletter to the members electronically. This has proved very efficient and the majority of the members have taken advantage of this service.
In 2001 the Website was launched at the address, www.ughclub.us. It is always kept up to date and information about the Cultural Group, Soccer Program, and Upcoming Events can always be found there. The most current issue of the Monthly Progress is also posted there for the benefit of the members. In addition to the website, in 2008, a Club Facebook Page, was created in order to have but another way of updating and informing the members. Club Events and pictures are posted there and the page brought a new way for the members to communicate with each other. In 2009 information was sent hourly from Toledo Ohio to our members on the activities of the Schuhplattler Group at the Gaufest. In 2010, upon request of the administrators of the site, thecup.us, (a page dedicated to promoting the US OPEN CUP) the German Hungarians created a Twitter account in order to send updates about their Open Cup matches at both the state and regional levels. This practice has expanded to include starting line-ups just minutes before the game, score updates, and upcoming games, for both Cup and United League matches.
Being a social club, the GH has always held events, both for the public as well as the enjoyment of the members. Many annual traveling events have been run over the years by the GH's umbrella organizations.
The Kirchweih is the "Most Important Traditional German Hungarian Event." it is the oldest tradition that is continued by the German Hungarians. The Kirchweih is an ancient German Tradition. It is the festival of the year. The German Hungarians brought this tradition with them from Germany, to their home in Banat. It traveled with them to the United States where it has managed to stand the test of time, as it is still celebrated today. Literally it is translated as a church consecration. The Kirchweih, is a celebration of the harvest, and of the people in the community. The GH has been celebrating a Kirchweih, for almost 100 years. It is an event that involves girls in beautiful costumes, boys in their flowered hats, and traditional vests. Music, dancing, and food are an important part of the fest. Every year the Kirchweih group, march in perfect unison, led by the "Geld Herr" who along with his partner, carry the prized, "Rosmarein Strauss." The men make speeches, as they describe the homeland, and the traditions they now observe. In the modern era, this event has become ever more important. It has become an event of remembering, and of pride, for the people of this club. For those older members who were immigrants to this country, its reminds them of when they celebrated this, both at home and in the USA. It is a moment of pride for them to see their children and grandchildren upholding the traditions. Many of the older women, who are members of the club, truly enjoy, the time spend preparing, the "tracht" for their granddaughters to wear. It is also, enjoyed, by the men, who are taught, speeches, from their fathers, or grandfathers, and they share that time spent together.
Before 1965, and the formation of the Cultural Group, multiple Kirchweihs were celebrated,each year by the GH. Many of these were based on the specific traditions of individual towns in Banat. With the formation of the Sport club dance group, Kirchweihs, were often celebrated and run, by this group. Sometime after the sport club formation, and the cultural group formation, all Kirchweihs were combined, into one event held every year in September.
On September 13, 14, 15, 1974, the GH initiated their first three-day Kirchweihfest. Little did they know that in the future this would become one of their largest undertakings. These three day fests were held, under the large festival tent on field 1. In January, a small group of members joined the ongoing Entertainment Committee and began planning for Kirchweihfestival, 1975. Many contacts had to be made; much planning had to be done to arrange the many details. Friday night opened with over 1100 members and friends enjoying a delicious buffet supper, followed by an all-star revue. Saturday, at one o'clock, the festivities resumed. At 6:30 PM., the Memmingen Band from Germany arrived and the Kirchweih Dancers marched to the TENT for the official opening of our festival. This was the beginning of a yearly event of which they were justly proud. From 1975 to 1981 they had American stars such as Cozy Morley, Mickey Saughnessy, Bobby Darin and others performing for a all star show on Friday Night. In 1982, President Andy Weyershaeuser who had been one of the driving forces to begin the original Friday Night shows asked Werner Fricker to become the Chairman of the event. This was when the fest was moved to the stage on the upper complex of the property. Werner approached the Cultural Group telling them that it would be financially necessary to do their own show. Needless to say the group was apprehensive, but with much encouragement their first “Musical Revue” was conceived. Although this show was meager in comparison to their future productions, the number “Rock and Roll Revue” was a preview of things to come. Almost immediately after this show, people came forward stating that they were willing to help put on a more elaborate, well planned production. Thus began the yearly productions that was enjoyed for twenty years. In 1992, it was decided to eliminate the huge tent on the upper fields and use the club facilities. The Musical Revue and the Dinner Buffet were held on both Friday and Saturday evenings to accommodate the audiences. Sunday’s festivities were celebrated in the picnic grove. In 2001 On September 11, three days before the festival was scheduled, the unthinkable happened! Terrorists attacked the United States by crashing planes into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York, in the Pentagon in Washington DC and in a field in Western Pennsylvania. In spite of all, they continued their activities and a Flag was displayed on the hill behind the soccer field. It was there as a reminder during the Kirchweihfest on the weekend of September 14, 15, 16.
It was realized in 2002 that the Kirchweihfest was in need of a change. The Musical Revues performed by the German Hungarian Dancers for twenty years, under the direction and choreography of Marlene Fricker, had been extremely popular with the members and friends. These dancers were now needed to do the everyday work at the club. They had families, children and parents to look after. They had given much in their endeavors to make these three-day events successful and they had succeeded. It was decided to hold our Traditional German Hungarian Kirchweihfest on Sunday, September 15, 2002 in the Picnic Grove. As always we included the Cultural Group in their Banater Tracht carrying the Rosmarein (Rosemary) Strauss and authentic speeches. Local German Bands, the Schuhplattler and Guest Dancers, as well as Soccer Games provided entertainment throughout the afternoon. In 2006, the decision was made to move the Kirchweihfest from September to November and from an outside event to an inside one.
The GH has been hosting, an Oktoberfest since 2002, when they welcomed the Bayerischer Volksfest Verein into their home. Th BVV brought with them the tradition of this event, and the two clubs have been jointly hosting this even since 2002, on the GH grounds. This event was first hosted by the BVV in 1878, and is over 100 years old. This event is held to coincide with the Philadelphia German American Steuben day parade. Bands from Germany, local German American Bands, the GH dancers as well as guest dancers and others have entertained the guests during these festivals. In 2005 it decided to add a Rocktoberfest on Friday Night and obviously, this evening features a rock band and draws a number of young people.
On Friday, Saturday, Sunday July 1, 2, 3, 1994, the GH celebrated the blessing of their new flag. This flag is the thrird, and current flag, that the GH has had. The event took place over three days, and included over 1000 people. Guests at this Fahnenweihe included Clubs from Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Rhode Island, Washington DC, Ontario and Quebec and the Band and 18 people from Germany traveled from near and far to celebrate with us. Friday's events included a welcome dance, with performances by guest dance groups. Saturday opened with the flag blessing on the stadium field, followed by a banquet celebration in the Fest tent. Celebration continued in the clubhouse following. Sunday was a picnic also in the tent, Soccer game featuring, GH vs. Trenton G.A.K., and celebrations in the clubhouse.
In May 2003, the United German Hungarians hosted the 19. Gaufest at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia. The Gaufest is a Schuhplattler Competition of the Gauverband Nordamerika. Besides the various competitions, Group, Adult Einzel and Jugend Einzel, there were many highlights throughout the three day event. The Parade of Flags, which usually takes place at the Banquet on Saturday and at the Picnic on Sunday is an awesome sight as the many colorful flags from all the groups from the US and Canada are waved on high by their flag bearer.
One of the largest events in recent years was the Landestreffen Der Donauschwaben USA Und Kanada 2010, an annual national celebration dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Danube Swabian Peoples. The Donauschwaben People as well as the German Hungarian People are the descendents of German ethnics who emigrated from the German lands to the Danubian Plains of Hungary in the late seventeen and eighteen hundreds. The hall and tents were filled to capacity. Friday was a welcoming time and featured the music of Heimatklaenge Lite. Saturday and Sunday featured two orchestras inside the clubhouse and two outside in the tents each day. Philadelphia Brass Band, Joe Weber Orchestra, Heimatklaenge, Toni Walter, The Adler, Bernie’s Orchestra, and die Schlauberger performed throughout the weekend. Dance Group performances were inside and outside and all groups (33) performed both days. A Cultural Exhibit with items from both the Trenton and Philadelphia Donauschwaben and the GH became the focal point for many people finding each other. On Saturday, after a Kindergruppe Workshop, a Parade with Opening Ceremonies took place on the main soccer field. On Sunday, a Mass was celebrated by Father Hermann-Joseph Rettig of California.
The GH has hosted numerous National Soccer Competitions.
The GH traces its history of sport back to 1922, when the Banater Athletic club began. Therefore the 50th anniversary of sport and soccer was in 1972, the 75th anniversary, in 1997, and the 100th will be in 2022.
July 14, 15, 16, 1972 saw the celebration of "Fifty Years in Sports and Soccer”. Friday, was a banquet in honor of the 50th. Both Saturday, and Sunday, featured soccer games throughout the day. Saturday evening was a special anniversary ball. Sunday also included a parade lead by Crdinal Dougherty High shool band. The Highlight of the weekend was the Game, at 4:15. GH played their sister club, the Brooklyn German Hungarians.
In 1997, the GH celebrated Seventy Five Years of Soccer. The event took place on July 25, 26, and 27th, 1997. Friday, again was a banquet inside the clubhouse. Saturday featured youth soccer games through out the day, with a Reunion game in the evening, followed by a Reunion party. Sunday, featured a women's game, and under 17 game, and Major game against "the Former GH players."
| German Hungarian Major Team | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1922 | ||||
| Current season | 2011-2012 German Hungarian season | ||||
| League | United Soccer League of Pennsylvania | ||||
| Stadium | German Hungarian's Field 1 | ||||
| Based in | Oakford PA | ||||
| Team colors | red and black | ||||
| Owner | The United German Hungarians of Philadelphia and Vicinity | ||||
| Head coach | Michael Curley | ||||
| Manager | Werner Fricker, III | ||||
| Championships | GH 1965 Amateur Cup Champions, GH 1999 USASA Open Cup Champions | ||||
| Division titles |
USL OF PA(16):1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1978, 1990, 1992, 1993, 2010 ICSL ULTRA DIV(2):1996, 1997 NATIONAL LEAGUE DIV(1):1932 |
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| Broadcasters | Michael Fricker, Press Officer | ||||
| Local media | https://twitter.com/UnitedGHSoccer | ||||
| Uniforms | |||||
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| Website | http://www.unitedsoccerleague.us/teams/29814898/19622337-29814988/TEAM.html | ||||
The German Hungarians colors are Red, and Black, usually with white accents. It is believed that these colors were chosen by Ted Kereczmann, based on his club team in Hungary. The GH usually has a kit that consists of a red shirt, black shorts, and red socks, and an alternate kit that consists of a white shirt, black shorts, and white socks. Over the years there have been times when black socks were worn with both of these sets. In the early years the uniforms were hand sewn, and the shorts and socks purchased. In the late eighties, the club began wearing adidas uniforms.
In 1923, the GH, entered the third division of the Allied League, making a credible showing in its first year of organized soccer. The first team was moved into the second division of the National League in 1927. This team achieved success in their first year in the national league with a first-half-title, without a loss of a game. In 1928 GH moved into the first division of the National League, and in 1932 won the First Division Championship. In 1933 the first team entered the Pennsylvania League, considered one of the strongest amateur soccer leagues in the country. In 1945 GH entered the first team in the first division of the Philadelphia Soccer League. In 1959 United Soccer League of Pennsylvania was formed with the German Hungarians as a founding member. In 1996 the German Hungarians transferred from the USLofPA to the Inter-County Soccer League, due to the declining size of the league that they had help found in 1959. In intercounty the GH played in the Ultra division. The German Hungarians were Champions of this division twice, in 1996, and 1997. Sometime in the 2000s the GH returned to the United League, were the team still plays today.
In 1959 United Soccer League of Pennsylvania was formed with the German Hungarians as a founding member. German Hungarian, Frank Follmer became the first President of the new league. The first team in 1959, became the Major Team based on the title of the division of the league. In the first year The GH lost the championship by only one point, but went on to be Champions for the following six years consecutively, (GH Majors 1961-1966). Since the founding of the league in 1959 the German Hungarians have won the Major Division title 16 times, making them the League's most winningest team. Over their years of involvement in the USLofPA many members of the German Hungarians have been involved in the running of the league.
The following German Hungarians were founders of the USLofPA
The following German Hungarians are past Presidents of the USLofPA
The German Hungarians hold 2 national titles, The 1965 Amateur Cup, and the 1999 USASA Open Cup. The GH were National Amateur Cup finalists 4 times (1964, 1970, 1977, 1999), and US Open cup finalists twice (1977, 1993).
1965 US National Amateur Cup Championship Team
On June 27, 1965, the German Hungarians won the US National Amateur Cup with a resounding victory over St. Ambrose of St. Louis 6:0 in Oakford PA. The Game attracted an enthusiastic overflow crowd of spectators, and the final result touched off a celebration which rocked the whole area. Over 1000 tickets were sold by the home club, who were prepared to win the National title, on their own field. The German Hungarians were dressed, in red uniforms, with black shorts, and red socks, and the away team, wore white uniforms with black shorts and white socks. The match kicked off at 3:00 PM, and at half time, the German Hungarians were winning 5:0. Sunday, June 27, 1965 saw a dream come true – and in truly resounding fashion. The GH gave Philadelphia its first United States Amateur Soccer Championship in more than thirty years when they completely demoralized Saint Ambrose S.C. of St. Louis, Missouri, the western finalists, and shellacked them 6:0 in the grand final of the National Amateur Soccer Cup matches. Although the Mound City boys were totally outclassed, and the issue was never in doubt after the first few minutes, the “Saints” refused to give up and they played hard and clean soccer, right down to the wire. The amazingly clean play on the part of both teams made it a comparatively easy assignment for referee Buck Davidson, of Washington, D.C., and linesman, Al Heery and Bill Rose of Philadelphia, three of the best soccer arbiters in these parts. In this respect we can’t help mentioning Buck Davidson’s remark, prior to the game, to the effect that a match between two good, fair playing teams always makes the officials look good. In his own, inimitable fashion Ted Kereczmann, the perennial master of ceremonies, opened the proceedings with a brief but hardy welcome to the overflow crowd, and then proceeded to introduce the individual members of both teams as they trotted onto the field between two welcoming columns, composed of the junior dancers and soccer players. Miss Marlene Fricker, escorted by Masters Billy Galgon and Richard Heck, presented a bouquet on behalf of our club, to the visiting captain, Jim Murphy, a member of the United States Pan-American team in 1957, and the two captains – Jim Murphy of St. Ambrose and Werner Fricker of the German Hungarians – exchanged club pennants. Ted Kereczmann then introduced a number of dignitaries who were present, including: Bob Goulker, a soccer coach at St. Louis University, and Second Vice President of the USSFA; Gene Edwards, Chairman of the USSFA Amateur Cup Competition; Frank Marcus, Wisconsin Cup Commissioner; Helmut Schurer, Chairman, E.P. &D.; John Weber, First Vice President, E.P. &D.; Carl Schmollinger, Representative, E.P. &D.; Frank Follmer, President United Soccer League of Penna.; John Piatka, Games Commissioner for United Soccer League of Penna.; Bill Share, President Referees Association.; Bob White, President Soccer old-timers Association; Charlie Colombo, Coach of the Saint Ambrose Team, who played center half for the United States World Cup Team which upset England 1:0 in 1950; and Frank Kirsch, President United German Hungarians of Philadelphia. After dispensation of the formalities, and playing of the national anthem, the game got under way and was quickly put on ice by Heinz Guckert. This final game was in one word unbelievable! Scoring in less than 20 seconds and following up with four more in the first half, led to early celebrations by the crowd. The goals were scored by Heinz Guckert (1st & 2nd), Arthur Jethon (3rd & 4th), Peter Piskei (5th), and Joe Hutfluss (6th on a PK). In 1985 this team celebrated a reunion for the 20 year anniversary of the Amateur Cup Win.
1965 Amateur Cup Champions Photo Archive
1999 USASA Open Cup Championship Team
On July 17, 1999 in St. Louis Missouri, The German Hungarians won their second National Title defeating the Milwaukee Bavarians SC 2-1, in the USASA Open Cup. GH traveled to St. Louis to attend the USASA National Finals, and they played 4 games in that weekend in two different cups. A group of about fifty, including players, their families, club officials and fans left from two flights from Philadelphia on Thursday, July 15 to attend the USASA National Cup Finals which were held in St. Louis Missouri on July 16,17, and 18. They arrived without incident and settled at the Holiday Inn in West Port. After the team had a run around West Port, Bob Wilkinson, Mike Curley, Werner Fricker, Jr., John Koschewitz, and Claudio Tovaruela attended a Coaches meeting where schedules, rules, and colors were finalized. On Friday July 16 GH played against Los Lobos, Oklahoma, in the Open Semi-final. The Final score was 7 to 2. Goals for the GH were scored by Cesido Colasante (6 minutes), Ray DeStephanis (15 Minutes), Pat McCallion (41 minutes), Terry Malone (43 minutes), Pat Morris (51 minutes), & Dan Murtaugh (72 minutes). The final was played on Sunday of That weekend, against the Milwaukee Bavarians SC. The final score was 2 to 1. Goals were scored by Pat Morris (8 minutes), & Ray DeStephanis (14 minutes). Naturally the team and the fans celebrated always mindful that on Sunday we were to play the Michigan Arsenal in the Men’s Amateur Cup.
| Abbreviation | GH CG |
|---|---|
| First event | 1965 |
| Purpose | to foster the continuance of the traditional and folk dances of the their ethnic group |
| Headquarters | 4666 Bristol Road, Oakford, PA 19053 |
| Cultural Group Chairman | Janet Malofiy |
| Website | GH CULTURAL GROUP |
The GH has bean a center or culture, since the founding as a Maennerchor and singing group. These people began dancing and becoming culturally active from the start, but it is believed that most dancing began in the 30s.
In the Days of the GH Sport club, there was a Sport Club dance group, that performed similar to the German Hungarian Cultural Group Today. Many of the men who played soccer for the GH were also members of the Dance group. It was some of these men and women, who helped found the Cultural group. The Sport Club Dance group always danced a Czardas at the Stiftungsfest. Kirchweihs were always part of the GH's repertoire and they performed at many at the GH as well as at outside organizations. Night in Vienna was an annual event that was held and performed at. Many of the Dances, Events, and traditions started by this group are still held today.
In 1964 Emily Fricker, Emma Mueller, and Antonia Kreutzer decided to start a children's dance group, in which they would teach and thereby foster the continuance of the traditional and folk dances of their ethnic group. From this inauspicious start developed the Cultural Group, an accomplished ensemble of which all of their members can be justly proud. Having expanded into several facets, they perform Viennese Waltzes, Hungarian Czardas, Contemporary Dances, and Schuhplattler Dancing. The Hungarian Czardas, has been a favorite of the group and its supporters, since before its founding when the GH Sport Club performed similar dances, and shows. The Cultural Group brings German Folk Dancing, not only to the German American Community, but to all their friends and neighbors regardless of ethnic background. Their eagerness to uphold the traditions of the German heritage into which most of them were born is the one thing that outshines their many accomplishments. The way in which the cultural group is set up, allows an infinite number of dance groups, and other cultural groups to be formed, under the this group. In the past the different dance groups, have been divided by age, having a Children's, Junior, or Teen group, and the adults being mainly the Schuhplattlers, The beauty of this is that these groups can be combined into a single group under one title, and perform together. The Kirchweihfest which is celebrated each November is their oldest and most significant tradition; it links the old with the new. The dance groups within the cultural group, in addition to performing at many club events, often participate in the annual event held by the Landesverband Der Donauschwaben USA. The Cultural Group performs annually at the Anniversary Banquet of the mother club, as well as the Austrian Heuriger.
The German Hungarian Schuhplattler Group 2011 |
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| First event | 1976 |
|---|---|
| Purpose | to perform Bavarian Schuhplattler Dances |
| Headquarters | 4666 Bristol Road, Oakford, PA 19053 |
| Website | GH SCHUHPLATTLER GROUP |
In the late 60s the Cultural Group began performing Schuhplattler Dances under the direction of Andy Weyershaeuser. Eventually this led to the forming of the Schuhplattler Group in 1976. The Schuhplattler group is a facet of the German Hungarian Cultural Group. Since that time the group has performed not only locally, but at various events along the East Coast. In time, their friendships with many other Schuhplattlers from far and wide encouraged them to attend their first Gaufest in Denver. In 1988, the club was accepted as a member of the Gauverband Nordamerika, Inc. an organization which preserves and perpetuates Bavarian and Tyrolean folk dancing, tracht, customs and culture. This umbrella organization has held their gaufest since 1967. The German Hungarians have participated since 1985. In 1999 at the 17. Gaufest held in St. Paul, Minnesota, the German Hungarians placed First in Group Prize Plattling. The GH is especially proud because they are not of Bavarian or Tyrolean heritage, and they won a Bavarian style competition. In 2003, the GH hosted the 19. Gaufest at the Loews Hotel in Philadelphia. Placing Second in Group Prize Plattling in 2003, the GH group was invited to compete in Germany. The German Hungarians placed fifth in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, Germany. In 2007 at the 20. Gaufest the GH once again placed First in Group Prize Plattling. In addition to this win, a couple from the German Hungarians won an individual competition. Sasha and Janet Malofiy placed First in Einzelplattler competition. After the 2007 win, the group was again invited to compete in Germany and did so placing sixth.