Bernhard Kempa: The legend of handball and his immortal trick

Bernhard Kempa: The legend of handball and his immortal trick

Bernhard Kempa, a true handball legend, is being celebrated on the occasion of his 104th birthday! The two-time world champion and inventor of the legendary Kempa trick has shaped the world of sports like no other. His name is inseparable from the success of Frisch Auf! Göppingen, and his trick is part of the standard repertoire of every handball player. Kempa, who also enjoyed great success in tennis, remains an idol for generations.

Kempa, who was born in Opole on November 19, 1920, began his career at the age of 14 and experienced ups and downs that made him one of the best handball players in the world. He revolutionized the game with his brilliant Kempa trick, which was first demonstrated in an unofficial international match against Sweden in 1954. “It didn’t work the first time because I misjudged the size of the Swedish players,” remembers Kempa. But this small setback could not diminish his fame.

A life for handball

Kempa was not only an exceptional player, but also a successful coach. Under his leadership, Frisch Auf! Göppingen won numerous championships and he became a defining figure in German handball. “We owe Bernhard Kempa great moments in sport that go far beyond the Kempa trick,” emphasizes league president Uwe Schwenker. His impact on the sport of handball is immeasurable, and his name will forever be linked to the history of the game.

The handball world is mourning the loss of one of its biggest stars. Andreas Michelmann, President of the German Handball Association, said: “We mourn the loss of one of the greatest athletes Germany has produced.” Bernhard Kempa leaves a legacy that lives on in the halls of handball and will inspire future generations. His life and passion for sport will never be forgotten.