When Eintracht Frankfurt visit the Volkswagen Arena on Saturday, one thing takes priority above all else: securing the win. At the same time, another important topic comes into focus – nature and species conservation. Together with NABU, VfL Wolfsburg are hosting a dedicated matchday campaign. In this interview, Yannick Gerhardt talks about what he expects from the game and how he manages to switch off in the current sporting situation.
Yannick Gerhardt, why is it important to you to get involved with the club off the pitch and give something back?
Yannick Gerhardt: “We’re very privileged, we know that. That’s why it’s important for us as a club to get involved. Examples include the tree-planting initiatives or the ‘Wir für Euch’ days in recent years, where I was able to really get hands-on. Projects like these in particular show that, as a team, we can take responsibility beyond sport and be part of society. And that also applies during very difficult sporting periods.”
What does it mean to you personally to contribute to future generations through your commitment?
Yannick: “If I can help leave a healthy planet to those who come after us, that’s a good thing. Ultimately, it’s about taking responsibility and not just thinking about the here and now, but also about what we pass on to future generations.”
You already mentioned the environmental initiatives you’ve taken part in. Why are such actions so important for nature today, in your view?
Yannick: “Especially in times of increasing environmental strain, actions that put nature front and centre are very important. It’s about raising awareness and also taking action yourself. When you get involved on the ground, you gain a completely different sense of just how important it is to protect our environment.”
Given the current sporting situation: how important is it for you to switch off at times, for example in moments spent in nature?
Yannick: “I really enjoy going for walks with my wife, preferably in nature. In a beautiful setting like the forest, it’s even more enjoyable. The area around the VW-Bad is particularly idyllic: it’s the perfect place to switch off, clear your head and recharge your batteries.”
Finally: what are you expecting from Saturday’s match against Eintracht Frankfurt?
Yannick: “I’m expecting a win. For us, it’s another final – the situation is very serious and absolutely alarming. But as long as we still have a chance, I firmly believe. And the team feels exactly the same way.”
