It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Ullrich Zempel, who was an important part of the KOMM MIT family for many years.

Shortly after reunification, he began 1991 his work for KOMM MIT. From the university teacher of German Academy of Physical Culture in Leipzig and lecturer for sports games became — as he himself once said — a tournament organizer. In the following almost two decades, he decisively shaped the playing operations of our international youth soccer tournaments.

The early 1990s were a time of change. Traveling became easier, encounters became possible — and this is exactly where the KOMM MIT idea came in: Using soccer to bring people together across borders. Children and young people from different countries were able to get to know each other through sport, play together and experience that origin doesn't matter — but team spirit and mutual respect.

A special part of this period was the Educational trips, which KOMM MIT developed from 1993. Youth trainers, who otherwise barely crossed their district or district borders, were given the opportunity to travel abroad — often to Spain. There they met like-minded people and were able to take part in highly qualified training courses with renowned speakers, including Erich Rutemöller, Jörg Stöber and Gerhard Bauer. Theory and practice were supplemented by meetings, joint trips and a balanced leisure program.

With great commitment, Ullrich Zempel worked to convince clubs and trainers of this idea. He often sat in the office until late in the evening and telephoned those responsible to enable them to participate in international meetings.

He himself once wrote about this period: ”My second professional career after the fall of 1990 was heavily influenced by my work at KOMM MIT. I got to know Southern and Western Europe better — regions I would probably never have come to otherwise. I learned Spanish and met new friends and partners. ”

He remained closely connected to soccer over the years and was involved in Federation of German Football Teachers (BDFL).

We remember a passionate soccer player, bridge builder and companion, who, at an important stage in KOMM MIT's history, helped to make soccer encounters possible.

Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who knew him.

Thank you for your commitment to soccer and for working together.

COME ALONG — ALLTOGETHER

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_{Credit: BDF (Federation of German Football Association)}