The 2026 Matchplan Conference
On November 14, the unique event for soccer enthusiasts and experts returns to the German Sport University for the third time: the Matchplan Conference. Under the academic direction of Prof. Dr. Memmert, the event offers an outstanding platform for lectures and workshops led by leading experts from the world of professional soccer. We will be able to welcome a maximum of 500 participants. Advance ticket sales have begun.
Program
This conference is much more than just a gathering for soccer fans. Under the banner of sharing scientific and practical knowledge, the focus will once again be on coaching, analysis, and scouting. You can expect a rich program that appeals to both students interested in a career in professional soccer and established coaches, analysts, and scouts.
Sponsors
Speaker
Christian Streich: He served as head coach of SC Freiburg from the 2011–12 season through the 2023–24 season, leading the club to three appearances in the UEFA Europa League and its only DFB-Pokal final to date. He established the team in the upper half of the Bundesliga standings, particularly toward the end of his tenure.
Steffen Baumgart: He has served as head coach for SC Paderborn 07 (2. Bundesliga and Bundesliga), 1. FC Köln (Bundesliga), Hamburger SV (2. Bundesliga), and 1. FC Union Berlin (Bundesliga), among others.
Thomas Hitzlsperger: He is a former German national team player who played for clubs including VfB Stuttgart, Aston Villa, West Ham United, Lazio Rome, and VfL Wolfsburg; at VfB Stuttgart, he also served as sporting director and chairman of the board. Today, he works as a soccer official, TV analyst, and entrepreneur in professional soccer.
Marisa Ewers: She is the Director of Women’s Football at Aston Villa Women, where she supports the strategic and operational development of the program. Her work focuses on creating a high-performance environment and supporting the club’s continued growth in the Women’s Super League.
Friederike Kromp: She was head coach of the DFB U-17 women’s national team as well as Eintracht Frankfurt’s U-20 team (Women’s Bundesliga). She is currently head coach of SV Werder Bremen (Women’s Bundesliga).
Thomas Krücken: He has served as a coach and in leadership roles in youth development at clubs including 1. FSV Mainz 05, 1899 Hoffenheim, and 1. FC Köln. Since 2023, he has been the director of Manchester City’s youth academy; prior to that, he was the director of the youth academy at VfB Stuttgart.
Felix Hirschnagl: He was head coach of the U11–U13 teams at FC Augsburg and the U15, U17, and U21 teams at TSV 1860 Munich. He is currently in his eleventh year as head coach at BVB’s youth academy and is in charge of the U19 team.
Schedule
The event will take place in various locations at the University of Sports, including the lobby, lecture halls 1, 2, and 3, and the cafeteria. It will run from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and includes a balanced lunch. Take this opportunity not only to benefit from top-notch presentations but also to network with like-minded individuals and industry experts. The full schedule will be posted on our social media channel: matchplan_konferenz26
Mentoring Program
We are also pleased to announce that a mentoring program will be offered. Those just starting their careers will have the opportunity to sign up for one-on-one meetings with established figures in soccer to ask questions and receive valuable career advice. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn from the best in the industry and take your career to the next level!
Ticket Options
Secure your ticket to the Matchplan Conference now and be part of an unforgettable event that opens up new perspectives and transforms your view of the fascinating world of professional soccer. Choose between two ticket options: Regular for full access or VIP for an exclusive experience.
The Regular Ticket is perfect for anyone who wants full participation in the conference. During the Early Bird presale, the ticket costs €118. For DSHS students, the ticket costs €59*, and for staff, €69*. With the Regular Ticket, you’ll get access to all lectures and workshops, a delicious lunch, coffee and cake, and a certificate of participation.
For a more exclusive experience, the VIP ticket offers special benefits. During the early bird presale, the VIP ticket costs €249; during the regular presale, €269. In addition to all the benefits of the Regular Ticket, as a VIP you’ll enjoy special perks such as an exclusive lunch and a select beverage menu. The highlight of the VIP Ticket is access to the exclusive VIP Lounge, which is open only to VIPs. In the VIP Lounge, guests can relax in an exclusive atmosphere and indulge in culinary delights from an expanded menu.
We look forward to your participation!
Tickets can be purchased via the following links:
Student: [Ticket]
Staff: [Ticket]
Regular (Early Bird): [Ticket]
VIP (Early Bird): [Ticket]
*The ticket is valid only in conjunction with a valid student/staff ID on the day of the event. The ID must be presented at the venue. In the event of an incorrect booking, the difference must be paid on site.
Sponsors