“Darmstadt 98 is a special anchor”

This special evening began with an equally special event: Together with the professionals of SV Darmstadt 98, Klöber Versicherungsmakler GmbH organized a raffle for charity as part of their „Herzenslilien“ (Heart Lilies) social campaign. The SV 98 players mingled with the guests and personally sold raffle tickets – the proceeds will subsequently be donated to the organisation „Aus der Not Darmstadt e.V.“ (Darmstadt in Need).

Besides several attractive prizes, the grand prize was, as usual, the most coveted: a tennis lesson with Darmstadt 98 head coach Florian Kohfeldt. After the raffle ended, the guests were invited into the main hall of the State Theatre, where the official program began. Colin Mahnke, stadium announcer for SV 98, hosted the evening. To kick things off, the entire board of directors gathered on stage, where they were introduced once again by President Markus Pfitzner, impressively demonstrating the team spirit within the club. While Pfitzner then stepped up to the podium to deliver his speech, his fellow board members took their places on the stage.

Pfitzner began by addressing the numerous attendees personally. „I thank you all for your support and loyalty to SV 98. We have achieved a great deal in the past and want to celebrate that with you today, but at the same time also look to the future,“ said the president of SV 98. Looking out at the packed hall, it was clear how proud he was of the club and its community: „We are firmly rooted in the city and region.“

These are turbulent times, causing worry and uncertainty for many people – both personally and professionally. That’s precisely why he sees the board and the entire club as bearing a special responsibility. „Especially in these times, Darmstadt 98 is a special anchor, providing support, security, and community in an increasingly fast-paced world. That’s important to us,“ the 56-year-old emphasised.

Pfitzner cited unity, focus, and meticulous work as the key to the Lilies‘ success. He also took the opportunity to express his sincere gratitude to all supporters. He thanked the city, the state, and the numerous partners and sponsors who have supported the club even in economically challenging times. „We owe you our deepest gratitude,“ he stated.

The New Year’s reception was intended as a joint start to the new year. Looking ahead to the coming months and the future, Pfitzner emphasised the importance of continuing on the chosen path. „We need your support to continue this success story. We want to continue pursuing our goals independently,“ the SV 98 president said optimistically.

Following this, Vice President Volker Harr, Martin Kowalewski (Managing Director of Marketing & Sales at SV 98), and Michael Haimerl (shareholder and managing director of HAIX) took the floor and announced some exciting news: Amidst enthusiastic applause and the motto „What belongs together, stays together,“ the extension of the partnership with main and jersey sponsor HAIX was announced. The new contract runs until at least June 2027 and underscores the close and successful collaboration. You can find all the details here.

Later that evening, sporting director Paul Fernie and captain Marcel Schuhen also answered questions from moderator Mahnke. Fernie particularly emphasised the values ​​that currently characterise the team. „We place great importance on ambition and determination. We’ve developed wonderfully and played many good matches. I’ve never worked with a coaching staff and a team that possess so much hunger – and that’s precisely what motivates me,“ explained the sporting director of Darmstadt 98.

The State Theatre itself provided the final item on the program in the main hall: three impressive performances – musical, vocal, and dance – formed a memorable conclusion on stage. This was followed by the raffle drawing. With good music, good food, and plenty of good conversation, the evening finally drew to a close in a relaxed atmosphere.