Rot-Weiss Essen Legend Willi Lippens Turns 80, Recalls Humble Beginnings
Essen, Germany – Willi Lippens, a celebrated figure in Rot-Weiss Essen’s history, reached the milestone of 80 years old today. Known affectionately as “Ente” (Duck), lippens’ career began with remarkably modest circumstances, living under the stands at the club’s old Hafenstrasse stadium for a mere 30 marks a month.
Lippens’ story resonates with fans as a testament to dedication and a bygone era of football. He played for 80 marks a month, with bonuses added later, a far cry from the lucrative contracts of modern players. Despite his talent, earning a living was a struggle. he played 457 competitive games for RWE, scoring 245 goals, and featured in 242 Bundesliga matches with 92 goals.
Lippens’ relationship with referees was famously contentious, highlighted by a 1965 regional league game against Westfalia Herne.After being warned by the referee, lippens responded with “mr. Referee, thank you,” resulting in an immediate expulsion and suspension. The incident is commemorated with a duck adorning the iron gate of his “Lippens Ranch” near Bottrop, a farm featuring an inn and restaurant named “Thank you – Mitten im Pott.”
Despite possessing dual nationality, Lippens played only one international match for the Netherlands, his father discouraging a potential career with the German national team, fearing it would prevent his return home. Lippens quipped, “With me, Holland and only one German would have become world champion in 1974.”
Today, Lippens’ ranch remains a traditional gathering place to celebrate his legacy and the history of Rot-Weiss Essen.