We have a special partnership with our kit supplier, adidas, which uniquely combines sport, education and career prospects. adidas supplies kit for our university teams, which compete successfully at national and international level. The high-quality, functional kit helps our athletes reach their full potential and represent our university in the best possible way. Furthermore, our staff also benefit from the partnership: in teaching, administration and at events, they take on visible and responsible roles – kitted out in functional clothing that emphasises both professionalism and team spirit. Because we are all part of Team Spoho!

A particular highlight of the collaboration is adidas’ exclusive rights within our university’s own Spohoshop. This regularly gives rise to joint projects, such as a specially designed partner T-shirt, which fosters a sense of identity and showcases the partnership to the outside world. adidas also provides important impetus for the Sports University in the area of career development: the company supports our career days, offers internship opportunities and gives students valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of an internationally active sports equipment manufacturer.

This collaboration is complemented by joint events and initiatives that enrich campus life and bring the partnership to life. All of this is a clear sign of team spirit, innovation and shared values.

Together with adidas, we are shaping the future of sport, education and careers – as a strong team.

The collaboration between the German Sport University Cologne – Germany’s only university specialising in sport – and Bundesliga football club 1. FC Köln has been in place since 2015. The partnership covers key areas such as talent development, sports psychology, sports communication, sports economics, digital innovation and sustainability.

“Over the past few years, we have built up a close and trusting working relationship that provides valuable impetus to both our university and 1. FC Köln,” says Prof. Dr Tobias Vogt, Vice-Rector for Research and Transfer. “Our students benefit from practical experience, whilst at the same time we are able to contribute scientific expertise to the club’s work.”

FC Managing Director Philipp Liesenfeld also emphasises the great importance of the partnership: “In a rapidly changing football environment, it is crucial to always think one step ahead. The collaboration with the German Sport University Cologne is an important building block in our strategic development. It has paid off in many ways over the years – from promoting young talent and innovations in sports science to sustainability. We are delighted to continue this partnership, which is unique in Germany, combining top-flight football with cutting-edge research.”

A key focus of the academic partnership remains the provision of sports psychology support for the entire FC youth academy, which goes beyond mere performance optimisation to also support the players’ personal development.

Students at the German Sport University specialising in communication and sports economics can undertake practical seminars in collaboration with the FC. The partnership also continues in the area of arranging job opportunities and work placements.

Through their partnership, the German Sport University Cologne and 1. FC Köln are sending a strong signal about the link between academia and elite sport.