In a moving moment during this year’s 50th anniversary Leaders Party, Berthold Happe was awarded an honorary place in the Gothia Cup Hall of Fame – a tribute to his deep and long-standing dedication to the tournament and youth football.
– It feels incredibly honorable, he says.
For 25 consecutive years, Berthold Happe has traveled to Gothenburg with his German club SG Borken e.V., bringing nearly 100 teams to take part in what he describes as “something truly special.”
– Coming to Gothia Cup has always been about more than just football. It’s about meeting friends – and meeting the world, says Berthold Happe, visibly moved as he accepted the honor.
Throughout the years, the teams Happe has led have become known for their strong team spirit, respectful play, and outstanding conduct – making them beloved ambassadors for both their club and their country.
– To be inducted into the Hall of Fame feels incredibly honorable, and I am very proud, says Berthold Happe.
This year’s Gothia Cup 50th anniversary not only celebrates the future of football, but also the people behind the scenes – the coaches and leaders who, year after year, give their time, heart, and belief to the next generation.
– The Leaders Party is not just a well-deserved celebration of these efforts – it’s also a symbol of what Gothia Cup stands for, says Niclas Freiholtz, Tournament Director. For 50 years we’ve been building something unique together. Gothia Cup is not just about football – it’s about people meeting people. And this year, we celebrate that more than ever.
Gothia Cup is the world’s largest and most international youth football tournament. Each year, around 1900 teams from 75 nations take part and play almost 5000 games on 140 pitches. Gothia Cup is a meeting place for the world’s youth, irrespective of religion, ethnicity or nationality, with football as the common denominator.