Dick Helling (22 September 1950 – 30 December 2018) was a Dutch professional footballer who spent the bulk of his career in the Netherlands. He played as a midfielder and is best known for an eight-season spell with FC Volendam, where he finished with 48 goals in 218 appearances in all competitions. Helling was born in Zaandam and later died in The Hague after suffering a stroke.
Overview
Helling began his senior career at Telstar and had a period on the books at Ajax before establishing himself at Volendam. As a professional operating in Dutch domestic football, he featured across the national league system and became a regular presence for his principal club over multiple campaigns.
Career and statistics
During his time with FC Volendam Helling amassed 218 appearances and scored 48 goals in all competitions, a notable return for a midfielder. His eight seasons with the club made him a familiar and consistent figure for supporters. Exact season-by-season details vary between records, but his totals for Volendam are widely cited as a key part of his professional legacy.
Playing role and reputation
Primarily listed as a midfielder, Helling contributed both to build-up play and to his side's attacking output, as reflected in his goal tally. While not widely known as an international star, he was valued at club level for his experience and reliability across many matches. Contemporary reports and club accounts emphasize his role as a steady first-team player during Volendam's campaigns.
Later life and death
After retiring from playing he remained associated with the Dutch football community. Helling died on 30 December 2018 in The Hague after suffering a stroke. His passing was noted by former clubs and local media, and supporters remembered his contributions to the teams where he spent his career.
Clubs and notable facts
- Telstar — where Helling began his senior career.
- Ajax — a spell at one of the Netherlands' leading clubs.
- FC Volendam — eight seasons, 218 appearances, 48 goals (all competitions).
- Born in Zaandam on 22 September 1950; died in The Hague on 30 December 2018.
For further reading about Dutch football and club histories consult general resources on the national leagues and club archives. Additional context on the role of midfielders and statistics across eras can be found via contemporary club summaries and season records. General references to the clubs in this article: midfielder position overview and club pages may provide supplementary information for readers seeking more detail.