Sports clubs in Thuringia: waiting lists and renovation emergency!

Sports clubs in Thuringia: waiting lists and renovation emergency!

Erfurt, Deutschland - in Thuringia, it is boiling in children's and youth sports! The sports clubs face a huge problem: the demand for sports offers for children far exceeds the offer. "The waiting lists grow while the places are disappearing," warns Silvia Otto from the State Sports Association of Thuringia (LSB). With over 17,700 registered children up to six years this year, one record after another is broken. But the clubs cannot keep up!

The reasons for this crisis are alarming: an acute lack of volunteer trainers and ailing sports facilities that urgently need to be renovated. "The situation in Erfurt is particularly tense," explains Otto. The managing director of MTV 1860 Erfurt, Stephan Dunkel, describes the situation as a "lottery game": "We cannot accept new members, although every day inquiries from parents. The halls are occupied until the last place!" The hope of new sports halls in the coming years could be a bright spot, but the challenges remain.

The search for instructors becomes a challenge

The search for committed trainers is difficult. While there are enough volunteers available for individual events, many shy away from a long -term obligation. "This is a growing problem," says Dunkel. The lack of trainers can also be felt in the Weimar cheer and fitness club. "The groups are full, and there are rarely chances of getting started," reports board member Sandra Hoengen-Kluss. Despite the cooperation with the city of Weimar, the coaching bottleneck remains an insurmountable obstacle.

The situation at the University of Erfurt is no better. The renovation of the Vierfelderhalle has severely restricted the offer. "We hope that we can do more soon," says club president Jens Panse. The sports students help as a trainer, but their availability is often only temporary. The State Sports Association calls for strengthening the volunteer and more appreciation for the committed so that as many children as possible get the chance of sport. The clock ticks and time is pushing!