A failed player lands a dream gig!

[fmzor]

The following is a fictional account of my life as a Football Manager in Germany. Enjoy!

Life as a Diplomat's son is anything but stable. By the time I turned 18, we had lived in 10 different places across 7 countries. Only a little over a year of my life was spent within the continental borders of my "home" nation: the USA.

I should like to think that these experiences in my youth have left me a more well-rounded person: exposure to different cultures and different environments is something that far too many people lack, but not me. The constant change, however, left me feeling like no place was ever really "home", merely a stop on the way to some other destination. Friendships were few and short-lived, romantic interests in my teenage years were limited - the vast world that I was a part of was a lonely place, indeed.

In the solitude of my youth, I turned to the one thing that was constant to everywhere I lived (other than my family, of course): football. With each new move, I sought out a new opportunity to play football. I think that my many homes made me a more well-rounded football player, too: I learned the defensive-minded Italian game, the possession-oriented Spanish game, the fast and physical English game, and - above all else - the disciplined and efficient German game. Aside from my versatility, I also benefited from moving around so much: as a newcomer to Leagues, I was a bit of a wildcard for most players, and by the time they had me figured out, we were off again to a new adventure.

I never really stuck around in one place long enough to enter a youth system for a top flight European club, but when I enrolled at the University of Munich, the first thing I did was seek out the football team. As luck would have it, they needed a Striker: and the rest is history. My game flourished at the University, and by the time I was through, I was a much sought-after asset bringing interest from clubs all over Europe.

Ultimately, I signed with Wolfsburg. As a five-star recruit with a top-notch pedigree, I was to be the future of that squad: a can't miss star. Nothing could possibly go wrong: and then of course, it did.

Looking back, I suppose my heart was never really into it. Growing up, I had used football as a coping mechanism - I loved the game, sure: but I was really only actually playing the game as an escape from the stresses of an unstable childhood. Once that was over, I found that I was more of a student of the game than an active participant in it. By the time that the 2003-2004 campaign was gearing up, my stock had fallen drastically. As the squad arrived for training, Juergen Roeber pulled me into his office to let me know that I was no longer needed at the club. Having failed to record a single first team appearance, I was just another busted prospect.

However, I didn't abandon the game that I loved. I found a new calling, as a coach. First, for my Sunday League team, then on a staff role for some unimpressive regional sides. Finally, I broke through as a first-team coach for Union Berlin under Manager Uwe Neuhaus. I was there for the promotion into the 2. Bundesliga, and really enjoyed my time there. After four campaigns in the 2. Bundesliga, I was convinced that I'd be at Berlin forever. It wasn't top notch football, to be sure, but it was a talented team with an enthusiastic fan base. Plus, I loved the city.

That all changed this past May. As we were winding down the 2012-2013 campaign, 1860 Chairman Gerhard Mayrhofe approached me:

Gerhard: "David! Greetings, I hope you are well. Looks like we'll both finish up in the top half of the table, do you think that Union Berlin will finish ahead of us?"

Me: "Mr. Mayrhofe, pleasure as always. Indeed, it looks like we'll both be back in the League next season. I'd put you as slight favorites due to your advantage in goal differential, especially after beating us 3-0 today."

Gerhard: "Indeed. Listen, David - I was hoping we could talk in confidence."

Me: "Sure......what's up?"

Gerhard: "I know we spoke two years ago, and last year for that matter - I was wondering if I could finally convince you to join Die Lowen?"

Me: "Sir, I'm flattered, really I am. Though I'd say my thoughts haven't changed in that regard. I love Munich: I had some great years there at the University - and spent several weekends watching 1860 play. I'm just not looking for a staff role anywhere else at the moment, I rather like Berlin and believe in what..."

Gerhard: "David, I'm so sorry to interrupt, but here's the thing: I'm not looking to add a coach."

Me, confused: "I'm sorry, sir - it's just that just now I thought you said that you'd like me to join as a staff role?"

Gerhard: "David, I need a new Manager - yet again, I'm afraid..."

Me: "Sir?"

Gerhard: "Yes, David - a Manager. We of course have other targets in mind, but I was hoping to add you to the short list - would you be interested?"

Me: "Of course, sir - it's just - if you don't mind me asking: why me?"

Gerhard: "First, we need someone who knows this country and this League. We also need someone who has been around a side that's enjoyed some recent consistency at the Manager helm. Further, we'd like someone who has been around a promotion battle. I think, though, that we're most impressed with what you've done with some of the players here - and I know your upbringing has allowed you to know the versatility of this game."

Me: "Sir? I was never really a headline kind of guy until my University days...."

Gerhard: "We have researchers, David. In any event - we need to proceed with some caution and avoid meeting here in Munich - can you arrange to get to the Berlin airport after your match next week? Myself and the Board will be in Paderborn following our match there. We'll have a jet waiting for you in Berlin to take you to Paderborn, and will arrange to meet in a non-descript office building quite near Benteler Arena."

Me: "Absolutely, sir!"

Gerhard: "David, I must caution you not to get your hopes up - we are looking at several candidates at this time. I do think, though, that even going through the process for a Manager position would be beneficial to your career."

Me: "Of course, I'm honored to even be considered. I'll look forward to our meeting next week."

Gerhard: "As will I - take care!"

 

[fmzor]

Gerhard's assistant rang the next morning, instructing me to keep absolutely silent about the discussion next week: Alexander Schmidt knew he was on his way out, and the board was allowing him the dignity of stepping down, but the team didn't want the media coverage to distract from the end of the season.

I was to proceed to Berlin Tegel Airport after our match on Saturday and catch the flight to Paderborn. My discussion would be one of several that 1860's Board will have over the following two days, but they did want to move quickly: an end-of-season press conference was scheduled at Allianz Arena following 1860's 19.5 finale. At that conference, Schmidt would announce his resignation, and the 1860 Board would promptly introduce his successor: the Germans certainly don't like to mess around.

In the week that followed my encounter, I worked for Union Berlin by day: helping prepare for the end of the season, attending meetings to discuss the offseason, and getting ready for my end of year review. I didn't expect much of a raise, but felt my immediate future was secure should things not work out with 1860. By night, however, I learned everything that I could about the 1860 squad. I wasn't an advanced scout, but I couldn't succeed as a coach without learning the opposition, so I had a pretty good feel for their First Team squad. What I needed was to learn their second team and their youth system.

Both, as it turns out, looked quite promising: 1860 II was storming towards a League Championship and a playoff for a possible promotion to 3. Liga. The youth squad at 1860 was always strong, as they were able to piggy back off of their Continental Giant landlords for facility use.

I'd expect to have a limited transfer budget as a 2. Bundesliga side, but promotion seemed like a reachable goal. The challenge, as always - but especially with this squad - was in staying in the top flight. As we found with Berlin, the poachers tend to take the talent that got you there, and the budgets take some time to catch up to the squad's new status, limiting the ability to sign the type of talent that can keep you there.

The week flew by, and before I knew it, it was game day. At this stage of the season, the boss would give Sunday and Monday off, so I had time to pop out after the match and attend the meeting. As we wrapped up a fairly straightforward 2-1 victory against Duisburg, I snuck off the sidelines and out of the locker room: certain that I wouldn't be missed.

The cab to the airport took about 45 minutes as we needed to circumvent the city. I arrived at the charter terminal as the crew was finishing up preparations for the ~320km flight southwest. I climbed aboard and found the bar. Pouring myself a stiff drink and sitting down to contemplate the meeting that I was to have the next morning.

What 1860 really needed, I'd concluded, wasn't a manager that could get them promoted; rather, they needed one that could keep them there. How did I end up on their shortlist? As Gerhard said, I suppose that you learn from a promotion fight - and only those that had been through one, as I had with Union, could understand those stresses. Further, unlike so many, we were able to keep Berlin in the 2. Bundesliga and avoided a relegation - even finishing comfortably mid-table this season! I suppose I owed Uwe a ton of thanks, too - he's always been one to spread the praise around, and he'd mentioned my name to the press on more than one occasion, crediting me with helping to transform our attack. Still, I thought: many staff coaches had been through a promotion fight. A lower-league Manager, even, seemed like a better fit, as I had no real managerial experience. I concluded that they saw value, as did I, in my youthful exposure to different styles of this beautiful game. Any 2. Bundesliga chump can throw a few tactics out there and survive a relegation: to thrive in the big leagues, you had to be able to switch tactics and mentalities at a moment's notice. That, I could do.

The pilot let me know that we'd been taking off soon, and I long since decided that I'd use the flight to try to catch some sleep - what good was last-minute preparation if I couldn't think straight during the interview?

I drifted off to sleep and dreamt, oddly, of skiing in the Alps - or perhaps it was a premonition.

 

[fmzor]

It felt like my sleep lasted only 10 minutes - though in reality it was much longer - before the pilot announced our initial descent into Paderborn-Lippstadt Airport. Paderborn wasn't much to see by ground - much less by air at night - but somewhere down there awaited an opportunity that could change my life: I was enthralled.

We touched down at the tiny airport, and the crew let me deplane before they did. I grabbed my luggage - an overnight bag and a suit bag, really - from the cargo hold and found my driver.

"Greetings, Mr. Williams," the driver greeted me " congrats on the win today!"

"Thanks," I replied "we needed that one for sure. How did Die Lowen fare here in Paderborn?"

"Lost two - nil" he sighed "Volz was sent off in the second half, and Kachunga put them up by 2 some 10 minutes later. We were probably already out of it by then, though."

I winced - "Tough break - looks like we're tied on points then - though if I've done my math right you're still ahead on goal differential by 5 goals - a win in Munich next week and Die Lowen could wrap up the sixth spot in the table - not bad at all."

"Somehow," he replied, "I don't think the focus next week will be on our League position."

I did not reply.

"This way, please" he said as he took my baggage and lead me to the car.

It was about 15km from the airport to the hotel, but I wasn't very talkative - the sleepless week had caught up with me, and I was nervous about the interview tomorrow. We arrived at the hotel, and the driver said goodbye, noting he'd be back for me at 8AM sharp for the 5 minute drive to the meeting place.

A lovely clerk greeted me as I checked into the hotel. I'm pretty sure she was flirting with me, but I was in no mood to notice - I was in the zone and thinking about nothing but football. I entered the room and hung up my suit - after a quick shower and brushing my teeth, I laid down on the bed and fell asleep instantly.

That night I dreamt that I was 1860's Manager and at a press conference after my first League game, a nil-nil draw. They kept firing questions at me and, as much as I tried, I simply couldn't audibly verbalize the answers. I woke up panicked and in a sweat, but with still 2 hours to go.

Deciding I couldn't get back to sleep, I got ready and threw on some casual clothes to go and find a coffee shop before the meeting. Finding a suitable location just two blocks from the hotel, I ordered a coffee - black, always black - and sat down at a table with a newspaper. The crowd was sparse, but the gentlemen at the table across from me were talking about yesterday's match - Paderborn fans to be sure.

"Yes, the lads were simply faultless yesterday - that's 42 points for us now, clear of the Relegation Playoff spot at last - thankfully we'll be back in the 2. Bundesliga next season!"

And there it was, the dichotomy of middle-league football: I was brought to this town by a board that couldn't stay with a Manager after a sixth place finish, and here right next to me were fans of a team in the very same League - thrilled beyond belief that their squad could finish 12th. There was a lesson in there somewhere, I concluded.

A quick glance at my watch showed me it was time to leave, I stepped out of the shop and walked back to the hotel, changing into my suit in my room before meeting the driver in the lobby, 5 minutes early.

"Hello, again! Looks like a fine morning today - how'd you sleep?"

"Quite well, thank you - nice hotel here."

"If you say so - I obviously prefer Munich myself, but in any event - let's get rolling."

"Sure thing"

"Just a 5 minute drive for us, so we won't have time for pleasantries. Good luck to you: you could be my boss in a week - they could do a lot worse, I think."

"Thanks," I replied, "but I bet you say that to all the candidates."

"Of course," he quipped, "I have to hedge my bets afterall."

"Fair enough - let's get going!"

It was indeed a short drive: a left turn, two blocks, a right turn, 3 blocks - suddenly we were in the parking lot. The driver stopped at the entrance and said "Good luck again - the receptionist will take you upstairs - I'll be here afterwards."

"Thanks," I said, "and see you soon."

Walking inside, I was unimpressed by the building - but I suppose this is how you keep the press off of your heels.

I smiled at the receptionist "Hello! David Williams for Gerhard Mayrhofe."

"Of course, Mr. Williams," she smiled, "Mr. Mayrhofe and the board are waiting for you in room 313. Take the elevator up and turn right - third door on your left. Welcome to Paderborn, sir - and good luck to you."

"Thank you" I said, and got on the elevator.

A few quick moments later, and I was standing in front of room 313. A slight twinge of nervousness came over me: my future was in this room. I took a deep breath and opened the door.

 

[fmzor]

"David!" Gerhard exclaimed as I walked into the room, "good to see you again. How was the flight?"

"It was fine, thank you, great to see you again, too!" I replied.

"Nice win against Duisburg - that brings you level with us on points."

"Shame about Volz, but you still finish above us if you win next week." I offered.

"Yes, an unfortunate lack of discipline - a symptom of poor coaching, I say. Please, let me introduce you around."

I shook hands with the rest of the panel: Managing Director Markus Rejek, and Directors Stefan Eckl and Alfons Stahl.

"Please, David, take a seat" said Gerhard as he motioned to a chair: the interview had begun.

Stefan got things started with an ice-breaking question "So, tell us about Union Berlin"

I spoke about the team, the friendships with the players, the cohesiveness of the staff, and the dedicated fan base. Also, I mentioned my time in Berlin and how I had spent time there as a youth, and how different the city was today.

"What was the promotion season like?" asked Markus.

"It was amazing! Simultaneously exhilarating and excruciating. When you enter the season as promotion favorites, as we did, every week is critical and every team is gunning for you. We had to constantly keep our players focused, even when we were playing supposedly inferior competition. We lost our opener that year, and limped to a week 3 draw against relegation fodder Stuttgarter who in fact finished in last place, 10 points away from the next slot. After week 3, the fans and the press were nervous - but we refocused the players, ramped up the training, and had some closed-door meetings. After that, we rattled off a stretch of 29 matches with only one loss. We secured promotion with 2 games to spare, when we beat Erzgebirge Aue and Paderborn fell to Werder Bremen's reserve squad. Interestingly, Paderborn were promoted with us through the playoff slot. There was a great party that night! The final two games we dipped in form a bit, but nobody cared - we were prepping for life in the 2. Bundesliga."

"What lessons from that year do you think you could apply to 1860 next season?" Gerhard asked.

I spoke about the importance of focusing on the single goal of promotion on the pitch, but working in the background off the pitch to focus on life after promotion. It's a difficult balancing acct to keep your current players happy while simultaneously trying to improve your squad for a larger league. Similarly, it's tough to keep your core intact when other teams are throwing deals at them based on their success in the current season. I assured them that I would have a 3-year plan: secure promotion, keep the core intact while bringing in some short-term talent, and then letting the kids come up once we were established as a First League side. Balance was the key - understand that today's squad will look very little like tomorrow's squad, but don't let the actual players know that.

"As you know," started Alfons, "1860 plays something of a second fiddle in Munich to Bayern - how do you think you'd do in such an environment?"

"Union Berlin," I started, "has throughout its history been second-most loved in Berlin. In the GDR days, we had BFC Dynamo - the Stasi side that won by doping its players and bribing the refs. Post unification, Hertha became the city's favorites. It's interesting that our fans, in the GDR days, were anti-government, yet today take pride in referring to themselves as 'East Berliners'. They of course don't mean politically, but more culturally - taking pride in their roots despite its difficulties. In sort, we're a different kind of club with a different kind of fan base, much like 1860 I believe. Not only do I think I'd thrive in that environment, I submit that I already have."

"That's all well and good," injected Gerhard, "but how do we survive long-term as second-favorites?"

"In recent years," I replied, "things have changed. Before maybe 5 or 6 years ago, it seemed a truism that Muenchners support 1860 while folks from other areas support Bayern. I think it was unfortunate that the club had to enter ground sharing agreements with Bayern, it took the identity away from the fan base of 1860 as the 'alternate' team - a designation that Union has embraced but 1860 has lost. You get the base back by recreating that atmosphere - winning will bring the casuals back""

The interview continued for nearly two hours - we talked tactics, mentalities, press relations, and staffing decisions. I was mentally drained at the end, but satisfied that I had done well."

"Thank you for coming in," Gerhard said at the end, "we're not all entirely sure of our schedules this evening, but won't you please meet the driver in the hotel lobby at 7:00 and join some of us for dinner in town?"

"Of course, I'll look forward to it! Thank you for having me!."

10 short minutes later and I was back in my hotel room, with over 8 hours to go until dinner, I needed something to occupy some time. Glancing out my window to catch a view of the city, I instead saw Duisburg Assistant Iliya Gruev getting in to the same car that I had just left: wonder when he flew out of Paderborn-Lippstadt Airport!

I silently wished him luck.

 

[fmzor]

I changed into more casual clothes, and headed out to look around town.

I was impressed by Paderborn - it is not the kind of place that I would visit on my own, but I was happy to be here. After visiting the town hall and Paderborn Cathedral, I stopped for lunch at a spot along the Pader river, which gives the town its name. Then I found a bench next to the river and looked out, contemplating life. I can think of no more peaceful way to spend an afternoon, and I sat there a good three hours before it was time to head back to the hotel to get ready for dinner.

At the hotel, I took a quick nap and put some formal clothes on, heading down to the lobby 10 minutes early. I kept looking for my driver from yesterday and this morning, but he didn't show up. Instead, another gentleman entered the lobby:

"Mr. Williams?"

"Yes..."

"Nice to meet you, I'll be driving you to dinner - are you all set?"

"I am, yes, let's go!"

The driver took me to what appeared to be a steakhouse, set in one of those ancient buildings that are common all over Europe. I got out of the car to find Gerhard waiting for me.

"David - good to see you - shall we?"

"Sure thing, will anyone else be joining us?"

"Nope, just you and I tonight"

I wondered if that was a good sign or a bad sign.

We entered the restaurant and got a table where Gerhard filled me in about the process so far. They had interviewed 6 candidates, and had 6 more in store for tomorrow (Monday, I think?). After that, they'd meet and make a final decision, letting all candidates know sometime on Wednesday.

"David," began Gerhard seriously, "at the moment, we are not negotiating. In fact, no matter what happens, we will not negotiate - our offer will be a 1 year contract - I'm sure you've seen that's how we operate until we can find someone who can lead this team. We will offer somewhere in the neighborhood of 425k Euro/year, for one year. We are informing all candidates since we'll need to know if people do not intend to accept the offer. Again - we are not negotiating and we are not extending an offer at this time, but we do ask that you withdraw your name from consideration, by Tuesday evening, if you cannot live with our terms."

"I'll give it some thought," I lied. That kind of money was peanuts compared to first division Managers, and about average for 1860's second division status. Still, it was more than I'd ever dreamed of making. The message, though, was clear: 1860 gets promoted, or the board repeats this process next year. And the year after that, and the year after that.

I continued "If I may ask, do I even stand a chance?"

"Twelve candidates, David, and I'll be frank - we've slated what we initially thought to be our stronger candidates for tomorrow. None the less, the board were impressed with you today. We certainly haven't ruled you out at this stage."

I thought for a moment, then frowned. "I was the first one in the door on the second-tier day - does this mean I was the last one on the shortlist?"

He brushed off the question with a waive of his hand "Six candidates today, David, four interviewers. Two of those candidates are on their way home - your driver mentioned that you saw Iliya this morning - he's headed back to Duisburg as we speak. Four candidates remain in Paderborn and, I assure you, you'd rather be here with me right now than having dinner with Markus, Stefan, or Alfons. Again, though - tomorrow is another day."

So I had won the day, it seemed. Still, the odds seemed bleak. I backed off of the work questions: I had been on enough of these dinners to understand that I was no longer interviewing - Gerhard was trying to figure out if I was the kind of person with whom he could stand to repeat this dinner with 17 times a season, whether he could put me in front of his fans, in front of the media. I stuck to small talk and focused on my University days, about which he seemed interested.

After dinner he saw me back to the car "Remember to call on Tuesday if you need to." he said. Fat chance, I thought.

The driver took me back to the hotel, and I got my first good night's sleep in over a week. The next morning, I was shuttled back to the airport and flown back to Berlin. I wasn't due back for Union until the following day, but I decided to stop by Stadion An der Alten Foersterei (Germans!) to check on things. Unsurprisingly, Uwe was in his office. He was, however, surprised to see me.

"David - we gave everyone the day off - had you been in the locker room after the match, you'd have known that! What are you doing here?"

I blushed, busted. "Sorry about leaving, sir."

"No worries, David - did you need to meet with me, or were you just coming by to pick something up?"

"Sir," I offered, "we should talk."

He hesitated, then asked "Is everything alright? You know you can come to me with anything."

And so I did: I told him about the past two days, about Paderborn and the interview with 1860. He was taken aback, but encouraging. He let me know that he had faith in my abilities, and that he figured I'd become a Manager someday. He repeated the caution that I'd heard so often - it'd be rare to get an offer on the first attempt, but there would be more interviews and more teams and, eventually, one would pay off.

I thanked him and left for the day.

The next two days flew by, and all day Wednesday I was hanging by my phone. We had practice, but I had let Uwe know the situation and he gave me permission to bring my cell phone on the pitch with me - but not make it obvious. The phone didn't ring during practice, which finished up at about 3PM.

"Any news?" Uwe asked as we walked into the locker room.

"None," I said.

I turned to head into the training room, and felt a buzz from my pocket. My phone was ringing - and it was a Munich number!

 

[Disclaimer89]

Loving this story! Great writing!
I'll save the latest update until I get home from work

Keep it up!

 

[fmzor]

Loving this story! Great writing!
I'll save the latest update until I get home from work

Keep it up!

Thank you!

 

[fmzor]

"Hello?", I answered clumsily.

"David Williams?" answered a female voice.

"Speaking," I replied.

"Please hold for Gerhard Mayrhofer."

My heart pumped fast and the world seemed to slow down: this was the moment! I looked up and caught Uwe's eye, looking at me from down the hall. He made a motion as if to leave, but I signaled that it was OK.

A buzz... a click.. then a voice:

"David! How are you?"

"I'm doing well, Mr. Mayrhofer - we're just finishing up practice, how are you?"

"Quite fine, thank you. David: I'm calling to offer you a job as the next Manager of 1860 Munich..."

My jaw dropped - I couldn't believe my ears. I glanced up at Uwe, he had seen what he needed to see. He gave me a quick thumbs up and motioned for me to join him in his office when I was done.

"Sir, thank you so much - it's an honor," I blurted out.

"David, call me Gerhard. We're offering you a 1 year deal at 425k Euro/year. The offer is valid for 24 hours."

"Gerhard, there's no need - I accept the offer, and look forward to the challenge."

"Brilliant," he said. "Please plan to join me at Allianz Arena on Sunday. We'll watch the match from the Owner's Box, then introduce you to the media after the match. I expect you to maintain good relations with the media, so please prepare for this encounter."

"Certainly, Gerhard. I work with the press here in Berlin. You have nothing to worry about."

"Great! David, as a practical matter, we don't expect to have much of a transfer budget this season. You can choose to retain or terminate staff members as you see fit. Handle that as you feel appropriate, but this would be a good time to start searching for any vacancies you plan to create. I'll see you on Sunday. We'll arrange for the jet to leave Berlin at 5PM on Saturday."

"Outstanding, Gerhard, see you then.".

I hung up, still in disbelief!

I looked around at the locker room that was no longer my home, then went to find Uwe.

"Uwe, that was Gerhard Mayrhofer."

"I figured." He said. "Good news I assume, from the reaction?"

"They offered me the job!"

"Outstanding! I must say, though - we're now competitors. Shall we drink to a long and spirited rivalry?" he asked as he produced a bottle of scotch.

"Absolutely!"

He poured two glasses, offered me one, then raised his glass "Prost!", he said.

"Prost!", I replied. "Uwe, don't let the Wessis keep you down!"

"Eisern Union!" he responded.

I left his office, and the home locker room, for the final time and headed home.

 

[fmzor]

Hello, Munich!

Match day at Allianz Arena - 1860 v. Aalen. It was a comfortable win for Die Lowen: Stahl put them ahead in the 35th minute, and they never really were threatened, ultimately winning 3-0. I was able to enjoy the time with Gerhard and the rest of the board.

Near the end of the match, we headed down to the field level. As the match ended, I watched from the Trainers Room as Alexander Schmidt announced his resignation, flanked by the board. There weren't many questions for him, and I saw him stepping away from the podium as the team's press officer gathered me for my introduction.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," began Gerhard as I stepped in the room, "it brings me great pleasure to introduce our next Manager: David Williams. David made quite a name for himself at the University of Munich as a striker, and most recently has served as a coach for the outstanding Union Berlin side. We have every confidence in David, and know that he will bring us a promotion next season."

I approached the podium as a blinding array of flashbulbs burst in front of me, but the questions were slow to come: clearly the press hadn't expected the transition to be quite so efficient.

"David," asked a voice, "Benjamin Otto, The German Football Review: do you feel that your ambitions for the club are matched by the board?"

"Absolutely: the board is convinced, as am I, that the proper place for Die Lowen is in the Bundesliga. I will work tirelessly to see that we get there, and I am confident in the full support of the board. I don't believe that I'd be here otherwise."

"Mathias Muller, German Football Post: You are the 13th 1860 Manager since Lorant's sacking in 2001 following a dreadful Derby Day - what makes you different?"

"Mathias," I started, "I was actually in attendance that day, wearing 1860 blue. I was just as disappointed at the 5-1 loss, worst of all to our nemeses in Bayern. I have since lost touch with the day-to-day of the club, so I can't speak for my predecessors, but I can tell you this: this squad has underperformed in recent years. With the talent on the roster, we should have been promoted two years ago, and most certainly this year. I will figure out the cause for the underperformance, and I will correct it: I am different because I will not settle for the status quo - our fans deserve better, and I intend to make good on the promotion promise."

"Kevin Scholz, The Munich Football Express: your answer seems to hint at a major overhaul to the staff - what staffing changes will you be making?"

"I have made no decisions about staffing issues. I will meet with each member of the staff, and make changes as I see fit. I expect these details to be sorted out fairly quickly."

"What tactics will you employ next season?", asked Benjamin.

"In my view, you build a tactic around a squad, and not vice-versa. I will take a full assessment of the squad, and utilize the tactics and mentalities that are the best fit for the players that we have."

"Julian Brenner, The German Football Messenger: do you have transfer targets in mind?"

"As I said, I believe this squad to be talented enough as-is. We may identify some areas of excess and shuffle players out, bringing in options for areas of weakness in exchange. We may not do much with the summer transfer window - I'm just not sure yet. I wouldn't expect wholesale changes, though - I believe the core of this team is strong and needs to remain in tact."

Gerhard again took the microphone, "Thank you, ladies and gentlemen - that is all the time we have today. No worries, you will all have plenty of time with David in the future. Thank you for coming."

Gerhard whispered to me "A group of fans remain in the stands. They caught wind of the news, probably from their cell phones, and are chanting your name. Up to you if you want to make an appearance, but I'm sure they'd enjoy it."

"Show me the way," I nodded.

Gerhard lead me out to the pitch, and several hundred fans cheered as I stepped in front of the section where the crowd had congregated.

"Welcome to Munich, David! What do you have to say to us long-suffering fans?"

I pondered, wondering if I should. Why not, I thought: embrace the base.
"Nicht Springt, Roter!", I bellowed (roughly translated: If you aren't jumping up and down, you're a no good Bayern fan!)

The crowd went crazy and started jumping up and down.

I strode off the pitch, certain that I wouldn't be missed when the insanity ended.

 

[fmzor]

The Overhaul

The players were officially free after the match until July, but most stuck around to meet me. I didn't have anything formal planned, and they didn't have to be there anyway, so I just reminded everyone that we'd start back up in July and let them know that I was here for any questions or conversations that they needed. Mostly, I just shook hands and learned names of the backup squad (I was already familiar with our starters).

Dealing with the staff, however, was a different story. I arranged to meet each of them individually the next day, and would advise them of their futures the following day: though in reality, my decisions were largely already made.

I sought out Markus von Ahlen, Assistant Manager, and asked him to join me in my office before he left for the day. This made him nervous, but in reality I let him know that I would be keeping him around, offered a third year on top of his remaining two year contract, gave him the next two days off, and asked him to e-mail me any thoughts he had on the staff that he thought I should know.

The next day was spent on talking with each staff member individually - it was a long and rather repetitive day, but I needed to act quickly and decisively: this team was hindered by a failure of coaching, and changes were needed.

Ultimately, in addition to Markus, I kept Goalkeeping Coach Kurt Kowarz, Denis Bushev and Harald Huber (Assistant Manager and Goalkeeping coach of the 1860 Reservists, respectively), and General Manager Florian Hinterberg. The remaining coaching staff were let go - my entire scouting corps, all physios, and the remaining staff coaching roles. In my view, this team had underperformed due to failures of the training regiment, and a failure to hold players accountable for their daily work.

The search for replacement staff began immediately, and the resumes began flowing in.

My first official hire was a Physio out of Salzburg's system: Sigrid Pichler. The media would try to make more out of it than it was. In a slow news cycle, the football press tried to frame the hire as a message: bringing in a female as my first official hire was a message on the need to improve gender equality in professional football. It would have been an admirable message to send, but in reality I simply hired the best candidate for the job, and just so happened to fill that job first.

Sigrid would go on to perform admirably for the club, offering invaluable counsel and care, and living up to every bit of her potential.

As it happens, though, her hiring would ultimately prove to be a mistake...

 

[fmzor]

I had approximately 6 weeks before the players arrived for the new season.

First, I needed a place to live - a rental: a man on a 1 year deal couldn't buy a house, that could come later. I ultimately settled on a residential community quite near the Allianz Arena: called Auensiedlung, and featuring large lots and a pond, my new neighborhood was about a 30 minute walk to the Arena.

I also filled up the rest of my staff - bringing in a new Head of Youth Development, a Head Physio to complement Sigrid, hiring six Scouts, a Fitness Coach, and two staff Coaches - one to focus on offense, and one on defense. It was a fairly strong staff apart from the staff coaches: they were given only one year deals - it would no longer be my problem if we weren't promoted, and if we were, I could hire more suitable replacements based on our new status.

With two weeks to spare before the players returned, we were finally able to hold our first staff meeting.

"Greetings, everyone," I began, "great to finally have everyone here together. I thought we'd start with a squad analysis. Kurt, how do we look for keepers?"

Kurt Kowarz, Goalkeeper Coach: We have 3 on the first team - Gabor Kiraly, 38, here since 2009. When he's on, he's a fan favorite. He's getting a bit long in the tooth, even for a keeper, but we have him for two more seasons. He'll need to be our starter this season, and should likely be a backup next season in the Bundesliga.

Second, we have Vitus Eicher, 22 years old, he has Gabor's potential, but is probably 3 or 4 seasons off. It may be a bit of a challenge to keep him on the squad and happy for the next two years, especially when other teams recognize his potential.

Finally, Michael Netolitzky - we should try to loan him out as he'll struggle to find playing time this season. Similar ceiling as Eicher, so we have talent in the pipeline - it's just a few years off.

All in all, we have OK coverage for this season, but we'll want to look towards a short-term replacement for Gabor starting next year, at least until either Vitus or Michael can step up.

David Williams, Manager: Excellent, thanks Coach. Florian, please put Netolitzky on the loan list.

Florian Hinterberger, General Manager: Sure thing.

David Williams, Manager: Christian, our defenders?

Christian Kritzer, Coach (Defending):We have 8 possibilities for the back line. Our best bet is Markus Steinhofer - he'll play best on the right side. 27 years old, could be serviceable in the First Division.

Guillermo Vallori, 31, can play in the middle. Fitness is a concern, so will need to rest. Signed for us for 2 more seasons.

Kai Bulow, 27, can play a defensive midfield role in a pinch, but belongs on the back line in the center. Solid choice for this year and beyond.

Chris Schindler, 23, can play on the right or left. Best potential in the defense, possibly on the team. Should be a star w/ Steinhofer this season, but isn't signed beyond this season and may prove difficult to sign.

Moritz Volz, 30, serviceable as a backup in the event of injury.

Sebastian Hertner, 22, can play on the left side. Above average Second Division talent, low ceiling which he's probably already hit.

Necat Aygun, 33, use for emergencies only.

Finally, Grzegorz Wojtkowiak - 29 years old, I'd suggest trying to sell him.

All in all, I'm satisfied with the back line, though I'd love to have another option on the left.

David Williams, Manager: May not be in the cards, but thank you. Right then, shall we break for lunch? We'll come back in an hour to discuss midfield and attack.

 

[fmzor]

"Okay, let's get started back up," I opened the meeting after the break. "Markus, lets review the midfield, please."

Markus von Ahlen, Assistant Manager:
Sure, just a quick note that Steinhofer, Bulow, Schindler, Voltz, and Hertner can play defensive midfielder in a pinch, but they are better off as defenders.
We have seven pure midfielders on the squad.

Moritz Stoppelkamp leads the pack, he's 26 years old and just an amazing choice on the attack. Should be in the First Division, really, but we have him for two more years.

Yannick Stark isn't far off, a central midfielder at heart. 22 years of age and likewise signed for two seasons.

Dominik Stahl is next, also a central midfielder. He's 25. 3 seasons left. Not quite the talent that Moritz and Yannick have, but he'll do for sure.

Then there's Marin Tomasov, another option for an attacking midfielder - 26 and signed for 2 more seasons. Just a little bit behind Stoppelkamp.

Daniel Adlung can play anywhere in the midfield, though I wouldn't put him in a defensive role. 25 and signed for 3 seasons.

Daniel Bierofka comes next - he's 34 and not signed past this season. He can do well as a backup in the Second Division, but probably isn't someone we should renew.

Finally there's youngster Ivan Knezevic - he's only 20 years old but doesn't have the skill to play for us this season, and may not have the potential for the future.
We look quite promising, and quite young, at midfield right now.

David Williams, Manager: Thank you, Markus. Finally, our strikers - Matthias?

Matthias Scherz, Coach (Attacking): Right. We'll have Yuya Osako from Okayama FC at the start of the window - that one was planned before you got here. We expect great things from him. A natural striker, and 23 years of age - signed for 4 seasons - if it goes as planned, he's the future of our attack - the present, too.

He was of course brought in to replace Benjamin Lauth, the aging fan favorite with a long history with our club. We have him for just one more season. He'll do well for us in the coming campaign, but he should regress over the next few years.

Bobby Shou Wood, the American, is next: 20 years of age and signed for 3 years. Another solid choice in the future, and he should contribute this season as well.

Stephan Hain is next, 24 and signed for 3 years. Another solid choice, though probably a backup on current ability in the Second Division, and a backup on potential ability in the First Division.

Last but not least is 18 year old Mike Ott. Only signed with us through this season. Has the largest potential of our attackers - he'll be topping the charts in the First Division when he hits his prime. I'm not sure he'll stick with us though, and he could be a sale target for us.


David Williams, Manager: OK then. Given this squad, I think we should train on a 4-1-2-1-2 primarily, and have the 4-4-2 and 4-5-1 at our disposal as well.

Thank you, everyone, that will be all for today.

 

[fmzor]

The Preseason

Not much to report from the preseason, at least nothing worth mentioning here, but the matches went well (though quite inferior competition).

View attachment 390324

 

[Disclaimer89]

When is the next update? !! Tonight?..Now?!! haha Really enjoying this story.

 

[fmzor]

When is the next update? !! Tonight?..Now?!! haha Really enjoying this story.

Should be a match report or two over the next couple of hours!

 

[fmzor]

Week 1: 1860 @ Dresden

In recent years, Dynamo Dresden has been thought of as more of a 3.Liga side, though a promotion brought them to 2. Bundesliga in 2011-12, and this was now their third consecutive campaign in the League - they had escaped the dreaded 2 year window without being relegated - perhaps they were here to stay.

Historically, Dynamo Dresden has a bit of a dubious past, albeit one known quite a bit more by my former Union Berlin fans than by those in Munich. Union's largest rival in the East German days was BFC Dynamo. Even still today, though the current version of the team teeters around in the Regional Leagues, in the East German days it was a club owned and supported by the hated Stasi.

That squad, however, began as nothing more than a transplant of the more talented Dynamo Dresden players, who in 1954 were moved from Dresden to Berlin to transplant a successful side into East Berlin. The remaining players in Dresden were largely reservists and youth players, and that side struggled for some time.

We arrived at Gluckgas Stadion in good spirits, anxious to start the campaign. I was of course nervous, it was my professional debut as Manager, but I felt we had a solid game plan. We went out with a 4-1-2-1-2 and I instructed the squad to retain possession and be patient - the chances would come.

We played a back and forth game for the first 12 minutes: we were clear winners on possession, but had failed to generate any real chances.

At 11:47, Steinhofer attempted a cross which was denied by defender Dedic, but we won a corner. Tomasov lined up for the corner and crossed it in - the Dresden defense headed it out of danger, but Tomasov found it outside the penalty area and went for a cross: this time Fiel knocked it out for another 1860 corner. Tomasov again lined up for the corner, launching a beautiful cross toward the far post - Schindler found the ball, and headed it toward the center of the box - where 5 players wearing blue were clustered all alone. Schindler's header was turned goalward by a header from Osako, which found the mark! GOAL! 1-0 1860!

Dresden played a fairly chippy game after that, and we failed to get much pressure, but so did they. We entered half time with the 1-0 lead.

I'm sure I raised a few eyebrows back home by replacing our lone goal scorer with Bobby Shou Wood at the half, but he was not yet fully fit, and looked rather tired.

The second half was rather uneventful until injury time. As full time was approaching, Stoppelkamp won a free kick on the right side about 5 yards out from the back line. Tomasov took the free kick, and chipped it into the 6 yard box. Schindler jumped, surrounded by 5 opposition players, and found it first - heading it in for a score at the final whistle! Perhaps it would come to be useful on a tiebreak?

Final score: 1860 2-0 Dresden

View attachment 390323

 

[fmzor]

I stormed into the locker room to meet my players.

"Brilliant," I exclaimed, "great start! We possessed the ball at our midfield for nearly 40% of the game - that's one way to limit an opponent's chances. I'm proud of this team for this result in week 1 on the road, but let's not get complacent - the opposition to come will be a better quality, and it's a long haul. For now, though, enjoy yourselves!"

I strode off to meet the media.

Sebastian Gutzeit, The German Football Express:
David, how important is it to your season to secure this win today?

David Williams:
It's critical - a road win in week 1 is a huge advantage, it brings confidence in the season ahead and in the ability to win away from home. A loss would have put both into question - this match puts us on the right track, for sure. That said, it's a long haul and we can't put too much stock in one result.

Julian Brehmer, The German Football Messenger:
Yuya Osako got his first League goal for the club today. How important was that?

David Williams:
Osako was amazing - Tomasov made a good kick in, Schindler did well to clear it toward friendly faces, and Osako was there to hammer it home. A great goal all around, and important in getting Yuya on form.

Sebastian Gutzeit, The German Football Express:
Christopher Schindler was the player of the match today. What do you think of his performance?

David Williams:
He was outstanding today, playing a role in both goals and playing solid defense.

I wrapped up the conference and headed to the team bus. My cell phone buzzed in my pocket, it was a text from Gerhard:

<Gerhard, 1860>
Congrats on the win, well done - never had a doubt! I wanted to remind you of Friday night's Die Lowen Befurworter dinner, on the eve of next week's home opener. You'll be at a table with me. We'll meet our fans, mostly long-time season ticket holders who also donate to the team. Black tie, David. See you there.

 

[fmzor]

I gave the team a day off after our Monday match in Dresden - we were due to play St. Pauli at Allianz Arena on Saturday, so it'd only offer 3 days of training before the match, but I felt it important to reward the team. Our staff, however, were to report for an afternoon session.

David Williams, Manager: Great job to all in the prep work for Dresden, but we need to string a few of those early results together. At some point, if you can do that, teams stop targeting you and start fearing you. Klaus, what can you tell me about St. Pauli?

Klaus Fischer, Chief Scout: They're predicted to be a top-half side, but they could make a promotion push if things go well: the media has them finishing 7th to our 4th, but what the **** do they know?

They won at home against Aalen, 2-1. Strikers Noethe and Verhoek scored for them. Aalen actually edged them out in the possession battle, but only had 1 shot on target - which they made count. Their vulnerability in the back line is on their left side: Stark and Stoppelkamp can probably exploit that and just feed crosses in all day long. They played a 4-1-2-1-2, and I expect that they'll do so again. They'll probably try to shut us down and play for a road draw, so we should come at them and spoil that plan early.

David Williams, Manager: Great. Markus, let's plan to exploit that flank, set the training accordingly. I want Stark feeding Stoppelkamp on our right side, and Moritz just firing crosses for our strikers. Train accordingly this week.

Uwe, you'll run them this week?

Uwe Speidel, Fitness Coach: That's not in my plans for the entire squad: my program starts off light then ramps up as the season progresses. We won't be the fittest squad early on, but we aim to be at the end of the year when everyone else is worn out. Still, I'll ramp it up for those two this week.

David Williams, Head Coach: Great. Stefan, I know we didn't carry anyone off on a stretcher yesterday, but are there any injury concerns to report?

Stefan Wolters, Head Physio: None that I saw after the match. Sigrid, were there any concerns from the players you examined?

Sigrid Pichler, Physio: No, just the normal dents and dings. Not many complaints, but there usually aren't when a team wins.

David Williams, Manager: Thank you. OK folks, let's train well this week, I expect a win at home this week. Looks like it's about time for the German Cup draw, let's see what the football gods have in store for us.


I flicked on the monitors in our conference room. 64 teams, drawn out 1-by-1.

Aalen was the first name out of the pot, and they were paired with some lower league team named Wilhelmshaven. St. Pauli, our upcoming opponents, were matched up with Trier. Dusseldorf got Lippstadt.

We watched as Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga sides alike were drawn against 3. Liga and Lower League teams, wondering which of these mismatches would result in the monumental upsets that always seem to happen early.

Furth and Sandhausen were the first 2. Bundesliga sides to be paired together: unlucky.

Bielefeld, our league mates, probably had some choice expletives flying around their conference room as they were paired with Hambuger SV of the Bundesliga.

We kept watching as our name, stubbornly, stayed in the pot.

10 teams left in the pot, and we still had not been drawn:
Onasbruck..... annnnnnnnnnd.... Koln

drat....

Neckarsulmer....... FSV Frankfurt!

6 teams left....

Neumuenster..... Freiburg

I sighed.... only 4 teams remained: us, 2. Bundesliga side Aue, Regional side Magdeburg, and Bundesliga squad Braunschweig.

Magdeburg's name came out of the pot...

"Come on!", I pleaded....

...Braunschweig would play Magdeburg

"@#$#," I screamed.

We'd play Aue.

"Unlucky for a first round draw," sighed Markus.

"It's OK - it could be worse," I offered, "and in any event our main goal is in the League this season. Make sure the players focus on St. Pauli. I'll see everyone tomorrow."

I found my office, slammed the door, and fumed. Gerhard and I agreed that the Cup needed to be a bit of a sideshow this season, but still it brought in some much needed funds: the budgets had all assumed a second-round appearance. I guess if we couldn't handle Aue in the Cup, maybe we didn't belong in the promotion discussion. Still, I had hoped for an easier pairing.

I checked my e-mail, 10 messages but only 1 relevant one:

To: [email protected]
From: [email protected]
Subject: Mike Ott negotiations

David:

Negotiatons with Mike are not progressing. In fact, Tobias Mueller, his agent, won't even join us at the table. He should bring a hefty sum in a transfer, so I'd advise you to list him. Wish I had better news.

Regards,
Florian

Well ****, I thought. I listed Ott for transfer, asking for 3M euro. I'd settle for 1.5.

 

[fmzor]

Wednesday morning saw the players come back.

"Boss," Mike Ott said as he poked his head in my office, "a word?"

"Certainly," I said. I had expected this.

Mike shut the door behind him and offered "This can stay in the room for now, but I'm wondering why I've been transfer listed."

"Is Tobias willing to sit down with us?"

"Not at the wages you've offered - it's not even close, frankly."

"That's fine," I replied, "but we have a lot of strikers and have to move one: and only one of you has both an expiring contract and is drawing interest from the League."

"I still have a role to play with this team," he interjected.

"I agree," I offered, "and I respect your business decision to test the market. You have to understand that the transfer listing is a business decision on our end as well."

"You're making a mistake - I'm not happy with this." he continued.

"Prove that you belong, and that you're worth the premium, and I'll bring it to the board. Until then, we have to look to sell you."

"I guess I can understand that," he conceded, "I'll prove my worth."

He left the room.

Great, I thought: one match played and already an unhappy player.

 

[fmzor]

The Gala: An evening to remember!

Friday brought some final match preparations for our opener at Allianz. I was pleased with the week, but a bit nervous about St. Pauli: they looked to be a pesky side that could steal a goal on a counter, and our attack mentality could play right into their hands.

I left early to prepare for that evening's dinner, leaving Markus to wind down the day.

Die Lowen Befurworter dinner was an annual tradition for 1860. On the eve of the home opener, VIP ticket holders were invited to Allianz to wine and dine with team officials. I had prepped some of the squad to make an appearance: Gabor, Schindler, Stoppelkamp, and Osako would show up after dinner, but were spared having to put on formal wear - the supporters preferred to see their players in match gear.

I understood the importance of the event - these are the folks, after all, that ultimately paid my salary. I knew it was important to maintain outstanding relations with our fans, so I relished the opportunity. Still, I thought, 1860 is something of a working man's side, and I had reservations that mainly VIPs would be in attendance. It's a start, though.

I arrived at Allianz and found Gerhard at our table, with seating for 8. Gerhard and I were joined by two executives from BMW, a marketing manager from our arena's sponsor Allianz, a famous tennis player, an Olympic gold medalist, and Jens Kroger, a mid-level representative from the DFB, Germany's football association.

The last thing I wanted to talk about was football, but our guests were eager to pick our brains.

"Any news on the transfer front?" asked Kevin Hertz of BMW.

"We're actively trying to sell some players, hopefully a striker, to supplement our back row where we have some risks on the left side. I haven't gotten the offers that I want, so I'm holding firm for now. If we do anything, it will be right at the deadline, or even in the winter. I don't want to bring in a stopgap, I want someone who can make a difference next season as well."

"Confident in the promotion?" asked the tennis player, who actually serves on Bayern's board but supports us as well, so long as we're playing another side.

"It's always difficult, but we can certainly get there. I'd have been a lot more aggressive if I didn't think we could manage with our current squad. I'm aware that you all won't invite me to next year's dinner as a 2. Bundesliga Manager."

Dinner, thankfully, began - a great 5 course meal. Thankfully, conversation was more casual and not football-focused. After dessert, Jens strode to the podium at the front of the room, and addressed our crowd.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I am Jens Kroger of the DFB," he began, "and I'm honored to be here at Allianz Arena with you all here tonight. Admittedly, I think the Arena looks better in blue," he said as cheers filled the room.

"I'd like to thank David and Gerhard for their hospitality at our table tonight. I am here to announce a new DFB initiative, and one that I'm sure you all will support. It's called Diversify the Pitch, DtP for short, and its goal is to identify outstanding female candidates among the ranks of German sides, and provide them the training, opportunity, and tools needed to advance into Assistant Manager and Manager roles with 2. Bundesliga and Bundesliga sides. This is an important initiative for the future of our sport."

"About ****** time," I whispered to Gerhard.

"We're asking German sides to identify qualified candidates," continued Jens, "who will join our training program. During the winter break, we'll have a week-long seminar in Berlin, and we expect all Managers and candidates to attend. More details can be found on our website, and I'll brief Gerhard and David offline. Thank you, and please enjoy the rest of the evening."

"Sigrid," whispered Gerhard.

"I'll speak with her," I assured him.

I was part of the mad rush to the bar, but it took me a full 45 minutes to find the line. Supporters kept shaking my hand and offering advice on tomorrow's match. I couldn't complain, but desperately needed a drink. Finally, mercifully, I got in line and approached the bartender.

"Scotch - double, neat", I ordered. Always scotch. Always neat. Always double.

"Here you are, sir, good luck tomorrow." he replied.

"Thanks," I blurted out.

I turned to rejoin the crowd, took a step away from the bar, and she caught my eye with a waive and a smile. I couldn't believe my eyes: it was an old friend.

"David Williams!" she exclaimed as I approached - she offered a hug.

"Aimee Neuman! How are you?" we hugged briefly.

We broke the hug, "Aimee Thomas," she corrected me.

"Right, you and Mark?"

"Yes, married 12 years now. Two boys, 7 and 9!"

"Outstanding!" I offered.

Aimee and I were close at the University. She played football as well, and the men's and women's teams would often train together. We never dated - at the time, it seemed like we could never really get the timing right. Looking back, however, I suppose ours was more of a brother-sister type of relationship. We each tolerated, if barely, each others' dates, double dating whenever we were each involved. Several late nights at the bars were spent complaining about one relationship or the other, or both.

She was, and is, a beautiful woman, though not everyone would agree. Quite tall for her gender, pushing 1,75 meters. Bright red hair, ultra curly, extending a full foot beneath her shoulders. Freckly face, though not too pale. Classic girl-next-door kind of look, and she pulled it off well.

I remembered distinctly disliking Mark when we met. He struck me as arrogant, quite inappropriate for his limited understanding of the world, and a bit controlling. I had raised my objections to Aimee at the time, but she remarked that I found fault with all her dates. True, I thought, but not without cause.

The interceding years found us losing touch, and I hadn't seen her since I started working for Union Berlin.

"How are things?"

"Quite good. I'm working with Siemans in the Finance group, and Mark was named last year as the VP of Sales at The Linde Group." she responded.

Sales, I thought: I knew the man was no good! "That's great," I offered instead, "sounds like the years have been kind to you. Tell me about your boys!"

"Hans is the oldest at 9. Dieter is 7. Both love football, Hans doesn't quite have the makings of a future footballer but he certainly tries - he plays midfield, Dieter is young but loves to play keeper. We have 4 tickets for Die Lowen and attend every match. One or two road games each season too, depending on our schedules."

"Well thank you for the support," I said, "I can arrange to get Mark and the boys down on the sidelines sometime this season if you think that's OK."

"Diversify the Pitch, David", she retorted.

"And you, of course."

"We'd love that," she said, "here's my card. Keep in touch, I'd love to catch up if you have some time."

"Absolutely - great to see you again! Take care."

The evening wound down and I headed home, looking forward to tomorrow but fearing a bad result.

From home, I rattled off an e-mail to our Director of Ticket Sales:

To: [email protected]
From: [email protected]
Subject: VIP Supporters

Joseph:

Please search our season ticket list for Mark and Aimee Thomas, and find out where they sit. Tomorrow at half time, please join me in the locker room. I'll have Gabor and Moritz each sign a jersey. If you could deliver those jerseys in the second half to Mark and Aimee's children, that'd be great. The younger boy is the keeper.

Thanks,
David

To his credit, he was still awake and answered me 10 minutes later:

To: [email protected]
From: [email protected]
Subject: RE: VIP Supporters

4 seats in Section 207, 5 rows up: midfield seats in our luxury area. I'm on it, I'll see you at halftime.

Best,
Joseph

I shut off the computer and went to sleep.