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Southern Thuringia mourns the death of football legend Hans Hörnlein: a big heart is lost
Hans Hörnlein, a central figure in southern Thuringian football, has died. Companions remember his legacy and commitment.
Southern Thuringia mourns the death of football legend Hans Hörnlein: a big heart is lost
On July 18, 2025, the football world in the southern Thuringian area suffered a painful loss: Hans Hörnlein died. Hörnlein was a defining figure in amateur football and enjoyed a high reputation far beyond the region. Companions are shocked by his death, but at the same time they are grateful for the many years in which he shaped the face of football. SV Dietzhausen describes him as a peaceful and helpful person who has never been seen angry in recent decades insuedthueringen.de reported.
His last public appearance at the 140th anniversary celebration of SV Dietzhausen on June 20, 2025, where he handed out honors, was particularly touching. Silke Hofmann from SVD presented him with a gift as a token of appreciation. Such gestures testify to the deep connection and respect that the club community showed him.
A life for football
Hans Hörnlein has been active as a football official for 48 years, most recently as chairman of the KFA Rhön-Rennsteig. In this role, he was responsible for a football circle that includes 78 clubs and around 7,600 members. His retirement from volunteer work as an examiner in the IHK South Thuringia after 43 years not only marks the end of an era, but may also open doors for new challenges for him, as tfv-erfurt.de reports.
During his career, Hörnlein was not only active in the football club, but also in SCV Ikalla e.V., where he worked with passion and commitment for 35 years, including 10 years as president. He has tested over 600 trainees at the IHK, which impressively underlines his role as a mentor and responsible person.
The importance of volunteering
The diversity of his obligations and the commitment associated with them illustrate not only his personal commitment, but also the comprehensive role of volunteerism in football. According to a study by the DFB, amateur football has immense social and economic importance. With 1.59 million volunteers in Germany, it is clear that these people not only shape sport, but also the community.
Hans Hörnlein was an impressive example of the positive charisma that such responsibility brings with it. The current campaign “#VolunteeringIsUnbezahlbar” reflects the value that such personalities have for our society. His death is a great loss, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched.