Biography
Who is Mario Haas?
Early Days and Club Success
Mario Haas spent a decade in the youth system of SK Sturm Graz before joining their professional squad in early 1993. He became a central figure during the club's successful period, which included winning league titles in 1998 and 1999. Alongside teammates Ivica Vastić and Hannes Reinmayr, he formed the attacking unit known as the magic triangle. He also celebrated three Austrian Cup wins with the team during the nineties, specifically in 1996, 1997, and 1999. He remained a dedicated player for the organization, eventually winning the Austrian Bundesliga again in 2011.
Playing Abroad and National Duty
In the summer of 1999, he left Austria to join the French club Racing Strasbourg. His time in France was short, and he returned to his home club in 2001. During the 2004/05 season, he moved to Japan to play for JEF United Chiba under coach Ivica Osim. He secured the Japanese Cup with the team in both 2005 and 2006. Regarding international competition, he debuted for the Austria national team in April 1998 against the United States. He participated in the 1998 FIFA World Cup held in France. Over his international career, he played 43 matches and scored seven goals for his country. His final international appearance occurred during a friendly match against Scotland in May 2007. In 2008, he declined a request from coach Karel Brückner to play against Turkey, preferring to focus on his commitments at Sturm Graz.
Record-Setting Career
Returning to SK Sturm Graz in 2007, he helped the team win the Austrian Cup in 2010. By February 2011, he appeared in a match against Kapfenberger SV, which marked his 412th appearance in the Bundesliga for the club. This milestone established him as the sole record holder for appearances, surpassing Günther Neukirchner. Ultimately, he holds the club record with 451 total appearances. Throughout his time there, he contributed to three league championships and four of the five cup victories. These statistics underscore his long-term impact on the team.
Retirement and Coaching
Mario Haas played his final professional game on December 1, 2012, during a match against Wiener Neustadt. He retired from active play at age 38. After leaving the pitch as a player, he transitioned into coaching roles. He managed FC Bad Radkersburg and later took a position at USV Mettersdorf, where he led the team until his contract ended. In January 2016, the club honored him as an honorary captain alongside fellow players Günther Neukirchner and Andy Pichler. Today, he manages his own football camps to help develop new talent.
Birthday and age
Mario Haas was born on September 16, 1974, which makes Mario 52 years old today. That birthday falls under the Virgo sign. Mario shares the date with 32 other famous people.
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