The big comeback victory: Zella-Mehlis defeated Dietzhausen 6-0!

The big comeback victory: Zella-Mehlis defeated Dietzhausen 6-0!

In the district league derby between FC Zella-Mehlis and SV Dietzhausen on October 25, 2025, which took place in rainy conditions, there was a clear winner: FC Zella-Mehlis triumphed 6-0. The return of Thomas Waap, who was finally able to get back on the pitch after a long injury break of 14 months, was particularly pleasing. The almost 37-year-old had previously suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury and was aware of the challenges associated with it.

After the game, Waap praised the support of his teammates during his time out due to injury. This team bond can be crucial in moments like these. ACL injuries are among the most common and painful knee injuries, with a tendency to prevent athletes from playing for longer periods of time. According to the Erler Clinic The anterior cruciate ligament as well as the meniscus and cartilage are particularly susceptible to injuries, with women being affected around 2-3 times more often than men.

Cruciate Ligament Injuries: A Common Problem

ACL tears often occur out of nowhere, often in non-contact situations such as landing jumps or sudden twisting movements. The knee usually swells within a few hours, which is due to bleeding within the joint. In such cases, quick first aid is important to minimize bleeding and swelling. Such commitment is important not only in professional sports, but also in the amateur sector.

The German Society for Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery (DGOU) reports that the risk of cruciate ligament injuries can be clearly recognized in sports and leisure activities. Prof. Dr. Maximilian Rudert, President of the DGOU, highlights the preventive measures available to amateur footballers. Programs such as FIFA11+ and STOP-X have already achieved positive results. With regular use, the risk of injury can be reduced by up to 35 percent.

Special features and challenges for women

Younger women and girls under the age of 19 are particularly susceptible to cruciate ligament injuries. According to the experts, the higher risk is explained by a combination of anatomical, hormonal and biomechanical factors. At the last Women's World Cup there was even talk of a "cruciate ligament rupture" that prevented some players from taking part. An example of the seriousness of the situation is that a return to active play usually takes several months - in professional football at least 7-8 months, in recreational sports even up to a year.

For Thomas Waap, returning to the field was an important step in his career. The emotions after the game and the support of his team show how important solidarity is in sport. Despite the risks of injury and strokes of fate, sport continues to be a central part of life for many participants. It remains to be hoped that with increasing awareness of preventative measures, many athletes will be able to avoid such injuries in the future.