Handball heroes for Robert French: Strong together in the charity game!

Handball heroes for Robert French: Strong together in the charity game!

On September 2, 2025, a charity game under the motto “Together for Robert French” took place in the Münsterstadt town hall. Organized by the handball clubs Bad Doberaner SV and HC Empor Rostock, the event was primarily intended to serve a moving goal: to support the seriously ill former goalkeeper Robert French. French, who moved to Doberaner SV in 2004, was active for almost two decades and was responsible for the club's press work for many years. Now, after serious health setbacks, he is dependent on support to finance his treatment in a special clinic in Cologne.

The total of almost 300 spectators showed impressive solidarity and paid respect to the sick athlete. Although the game ended with a clear victory for HC Empor Rostock (46:23) - at halftime the score was 21:10 - it wasn't just the result that counted that evening. "Handball is more than a game. It's about solidarity and support in difficult times," emphasized André Wilk, the HCE's sports director. So the real win that evening was the help for Robert French, not the points.

Supporting the aid project

The proceeds from the game and the proceeds from jersey auctions will go directly to Robert and his family. Ostseesparkasse (Ospa) and Doberaner SV have also started a crowdfunding campaign on the “99 Funken” platform to raise further financial resources. “We hope for numerous donations and support from the entire handball community,” explained Stefan Kultermann, a former player and coach, who encouraged spectators to get involved.

Robert French, who lost consciousness on April 30, 2023 and has since undergone several surgeries, is currently in an induced coma. On the occasion of the charity evening, numerous former teammates sent him motivating video messages that not only provided comfort, but also embodied the close community in handball.

A sporting concern with social responsibility

The evening was an excellent example of the social responsibility that handball clubs take on. As handball100.de describes, sports clubs are increasingly becoming involved in social projects and promoting social values. Education and sustainability initiatives are a central part of this commitment, and handball sports in particular promote the integration of all people. This is also evident in the charity game, which was not only aimed at a sporting performance, but above all at the participation and support of fans and players.

We can't wait to see how the support for Robert French continues and hopefully we will soon receive positive news from the Cologne special clinic. The evening ended with a standing ovation because everyone present agreed: “We are fighting together for Robert!”