As we know, it all started in September 2021 for Germany, the world champion. More precisely in Braunschweig when Gordon Herbert had taken his car to meet Dennis Schroder and present his project for the national team. That September day was born a deep complicity and mutual respect, and we can better understand Dennis Schroder's emotion at the announcement of the Canadian technician's retirement after the Olympic Games.
“We are heartbroken. First of all, we have to thank the coach for everything he has done for the German FA and the national team. He brought this culture, this fun and this atmosphere into the dressing room. He created it three years ago, and it was an honour to be his captain,” believes the former Lakers point guard. “In three years we have won two medals. Of course we wanted to win a third. But we have done something that no one has done before, thanks to the coach. Everyone is unhappy now, but we are looking to the future.”
Sad that this three year adventure is ending
A future without Herbert, who has reached the end of his project, and who will take the reins of Bayern Munich. His record is exceptional even if he would have liked to finish with a new medal.
“All good things must come to an end,” he sighed. “The ending wasn’t what we wanted. But these guys gave their hearts and souls for three years. These players… They’re a family! I told the players I was frustrated they didn’t do better to help us win. But we can’t forget what this team did in three years.”
Asked about Schroder's impact during those three years, Herbert also paid him a glowing tribute. “When I first met Dennis, I was struck by what an honour it was for him to represent his country. It stuck with me throughout these three years. He took it as a great honour when I named him captain. Maybe he’ll play until he’s 45, I don’t know… I’m sad because it’s the end. I’ve had an extraordinary experience with these guys. They’re even better people than they are players. It’s a situation you dream of as a coach.”
