Göppingen Undergoes Coaching Shakeup with Matschke Taking Over from Baur
Finally, the news we've all been waiting for!
Markus Baur (52), the 2007 world champion, received some surprising news last November. The club administration surrounding Gerd Hofele, the Frisch Auf boss, announced that his contract, set to expire in the summer of 2024, would not be renewed. The main reason behind this decision? The disappointing results in the Liqui Moly Handball Bundesliga. Göppingen currently sits in 12th place with 11:19 points.
Saying Goodbye to Baur, Hello to Matschke
Who will take up the mantle? You might be surprised to learn that his successor, Matschke, also comes from the Ländle, having been born in Heilbronn. He honed his handball skills with TSG Friesenheim before transitioning into coaching and guiding the club to Bundesliga 1 success. In 2021, Matschke left for HSG Wetzlar, where he managed to secure a 7th place finish in his debut season. However, a rocky start to the 2022-2023 season led to his temporary leave of absence in November 2022.
As of now, his contract with Wetzlar remains valid until 2025, but it will be terminated on June 30, 2024, to facilitate his move to Frisch Auf.
Hofele is typically hesitant to make premature coaching changes, but should Frisch Auf's position in the relegation battle worsen under Baur, Matschke could be a viable alternative.
The Perfect Fit?
Hofele is confident that Matschke fits the job profile perfectly due to Frisch Auf's current sporting situation and the looming rejuvenation process due to budget cuts in the 2024-2025 season. Matschke's sports science education at the University of Stuttgart, with a focus on young player development, should prove beneficial.
Matschke's excitement for the new opportunity is palpable: "Together, we will successfully drive the team's rejuvenation and realignment. In the meantime, I wish the club and those responsible many wonderful handball experiences in Hell South."
Additional Handball Highlights
Did you know that Matschke spent some time coaching Dyn Handball in Göppingen? Utilizing a no-sport app, Matschke analyzed and improved the team's performance. Even after leaving HSG Wetzlar, Matschke remains eager to share his knowledge with Frisch Auf and help the team emerge victoriously from the relegation battle.
