"Unskilled" and "unreasonable" - Kretzschmar rebukes DHB.
Rapid changes are afoot.
Just a few months ago, the German Handball Federation (DHB) was hailed for its excellent organization and warm hospitality at the European Championship, which broke records in terms of TV ratings and audience attendance - the financial rewards were stratospheric.
However, things are now dramatically different. Benjamin Chatton (43), the CFO, has decided to leave on December 31st. And Axel Kromer (47), Sports Director, has his own ideas, but they won't become a reality. The upper echelons of the DHB have chosen to part ways with him at the end of the year.
Kromer has been criticized for being too focused on national teams, neglecting other aspects of the sport. The current team is competing in Växjö for a coveted spot in the 2020 Olympics; they'll face off with the hosts Sweden today (14:30, ZDF livestream). Kromer's involvement is seemingly questioned.
Critics abound - Stefan Kretzschmar (51) was especially scathing about the whole affair, accusing the DHB of being a mere "amateurish" organization. Others think it was time for a change. The national associations had been expressing concerns about Kromer's neglect of the bigger picture, and the national players were also vocal about their concerns.
Rumors abound that Kromer is no longer in the running for other positions at the DHB. The former handball professional is reported to have opposed the continued employment of national coach Alfred Gíslason (64), creating a trust gap that is insurmountable.
It's uncertain what specific roles Kromer will be allowed to carry out before his departure. Will he become a lame duck, stripped of decision-making power?
"We want to ensure that the Organization of the Olympic Games is smooth, both in terms of leadership and administration," explains Michelmann. "I'm not sure yet how that will play out with Kromer."
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There's a possibility that another person could join the national teams. "We're definitely considering it," Michelmann says. "I informed Kromer about the contract situation and the very next day, he rushed off to Copenhagen with the national team. When he returns, we'll have a conversation about his take on the situation."
The DHB urgently needs to find capable replacements for its two board members and sports directors.
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Source: symclub.org
