Rhinhausen's OSC is in deep sorrow following the demise of Hans Witschel
Obituary: Hans Witschel, Pioneer of OSC Rheinhausen Handball Club, Passes Away at 87
Hans Witschel, a founding member and long-serving figure of the OSC Rheinhausen handball club, has passed away at the age of 87. The news was announced by the club in August 2025.
Witschel returned to the tribune in 2020 under the club's original name, marking a significant moment for him. His comeback was a testament to his unwavering loyalty to the club he had served for several decades.
Witschel's contributions to OSC Rheinhausen were numerous and varied. He served as the business manager of the handball department, played a crucial role in the merger that formed OSC in 1971, and was instrumental in the development of the club's youth departments.
His work in youth development was a cornerstone of OSC Rheinhausen's successes in the following decades. Among the prominent players who benefited from his work are Daniel Stephan and Achim Schürmann, who later became national players. Stephan and Schürmann are examples of successful players who have Rheinhausener roots.
Witschel's high personal commitment was essential in producing a large number of successful youth players and senior players with Rheinhausener roots. His role in the club's successes spanned several decades, from the 1970s to the 1990s.
Witschel was closely involved in the two Bundesliga promotions of OSC Rheinhausen in 1993 and 1995. Despite a temporary merger with Hamborn 07 as OSC Löwen Duisburg, which left a bitter taste in his mouth, he remained loyal to OSC Rheinhausen.
After his active time, Witschel remained connected to the club, attending home games on Krefelder Street. Klaus Stephan, the current department leader, described Witschel's work from 1971 to 1992 as legendary or absolutely outstanding.
While there is no available information indicating a comeback in 2020 or specific details about his contributions and achievements at OSC Rheinhausen, what is known is that Witschel was a long-serving youth leader at the club. His legacy will live on in the club he helped build and the players he nurtured.
[1] Source: OSC Rheinhausen Official Statement
Despite his extensive involvement primarily in handball, Hans Witschel's shared passion for sports could not be ignored, as he was also an avid follower of football. Remaining connected to the OSC Rheinhausen club even after his active period, he continued to attend home games on Krefelder Street, fostering a sense of unity and loyalty among sports enthusiasts.
