Discussion with Herbert Hainer at Säbener Straße

Some become members specifically to take part, whilst others spend weeks beforehand at their computers using special training programmes. Either way, FC Bayern’s exclusive Schafkopf tournament was once again a success in its sixth edition. From over 415 entries, 64 participants were drawn at random. This time, the card tables were not set up in the *1900 clubhouse at the FC Bayern Campus but in a new setting in the Säbener Straße canteen for that home-game feeling. Once again, president Herbert Hainer, vice-president Dieter Mayer and basketball legend Steffen Hamann were in attendance – though, of course, not competing. With the annual general meeting on 21 November in mind, Hainer made himself available to answer members’ questions during a separate talk held in the half-time break.

Following a welcome from managing director Benny Folkmann and an explanation of the game by Herbert Guttenberger, a member of FC Bayern’s voluntary programme PACK MA’S, the card players got underway in the canteen to the sound of lively music over the speakers. Hainer remarked that it was always something special to chat with the members: “We want to be a down-to-earth, approachable club, and we convey that through our numerous dialogue formats. I always enjoy joining in.” Hamann was enthusiastic once again: “People love it when I talk about the basketball matches at the SAP Garden and the illuminated floor at the BMW Park – there are always new topics to discuss.” Mayer used the on-stage chat during the break to explain the background to the planned handover of the vice-presidency from Walter Mennekes to Marko Pešić: “Walter has been a great asset over his ten years and Marko will bring fresh impetus. We hope that the members will confirm him as Walter’s successor at the AGM.”

Hainer provided an update on Vincent Kompany and gave members a behind-the-scenes look at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London, where Harry Kane was awarded the top prize. Both the coach and the best player in the world received a long round of applause from the audience. Udo Kienast, whom many recognise as Kutten-Kini from the annual general meetings, asked the president what he thought of Kane’s speech at the ceremony, during which the striker had expressed great respect for Bayern. “We’ve taught Harry well,” Hainer initially replied with a smile, before continuing more seriously: “Harry Kane is an outstanding individual. We’re very proud that he plays for our club.”

Kutten-Kini had practised especially for the Schafkopf tournament, he explained. As a Berliner, he usually plays Skat, but when he received the invitation to the event at Säbener Straße, he spent several weeks at his computer learning the rules of the game, which is particularly popular in Bavaria. Christian Keller, a native of Munich, had the advantage of having known how to play Schafkopf since his youth, but he first had to become a member to be allowed to take part. “I’d heard about Bayern’s Schafkopf games and was really keen to take part, so I sent off my application,” he said. He proudly wore his personalised fan scarf, which every member receives as a welcome gift from the club: “It was great fun. On a day like this, you really notice that Bayern is one big family.”

Walter Hittinger received a special round of applause. As member number 124, he was – on paper at least – the most loyal Bayern supporter present that day. “I actually played with Franz Beckenbauer many decades ago. He wasn’t half bad at Schafkopf either,” said the 88-year-old. In the end, Hanspeter Brutscher took first place ahead of Werner Wagmann and Robert Harrer-Silberhorn. Hainer, Mayer and Hamann presented the winners with FCB beer glasses. Everyone also received a certificate and a Red Against Racism card set so they could continue playing in true Bayern style at home.