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Handball heroes for Robert French: charity game delights fans in Doberan
HC Empor Rostock and Bad Doberaner SV will play a charity game for sick goalkeeper Robert French on September 2nd, 2025.
Handball heroes for Robert French: charity game delights fans in Doberan
On September 2nd, 2025, a very special charity game took place in the Bad Doberan town hall: Bad Doberaner SV 90 and HC Empor Rostock competed against each other to support a former goalkeeper. This time it wasn't just about the sporting competition, but also about supporting the seriously ill Robert French. With a clear final score of 46:23 (21:10), third division team HC Empor Rostock secured victory, but the real heroics that evening took place off the field.
Robert French, a former goalkeeper who played for HC Empor in his youth and later played for Doberaner SV for many years, is suffering from a serious illness. He suddenly lost consciousness on April 30, 2023, was put into an artificial coma and has since had to undergo several operations. In order to finance his treatment in a special clinic in Cologne, both associations have organized a charity evening, the proceeds of which will directly benefit Robert and his family. André Wilk, sports director at HC Empor, emphasized the solidarity within the handball community and called for support, which numerous spectators on site also demonstrated with their donations. Almost 300 fans came to donate to the good cause and show their support.
Community in handball
The solidarity within the handball community is impressive. Not only were funds raised that evening, but personal messages were also sent to Robert French from former teammates with well-wishes. The video messages that encouraged him and gave him strength for the challenges ahead were particularly touching.
In order to increase financial resources, Doberaner SV and Ostseesparkasse launched a crowdfunding campaign on the “99 Funken” platform. This method of financing projects has become established in recent years, offers many advantages and motivates the community to support large projects. According to Sports Marketing Sponsoring, crowdfunding is an excellent way to mobilize financial support for projects in the sports and non-profit sector. Supporters can donate without financial compensation, which is particularly important for personal causes like Robert French's.
A conclusion with heart
The charity game, which kicked off at 7 p.m., ended in an atmosphere of hope and solidarity. The spectators were enthusiastic and rewarded the players with a standing ovation. In addition to the sporting success, the evening also provided new impetus for support for Robert French, who now relies on the community's help. The Doberan and Rostock handball players show that in difficult times, solidarity is the be-all and end-all in order to shape a better future together.
The evening not only showed the commitment of sport, but also how important it is to be there for each other, no matter the situation. The goal of helping Robert French is the motivation for everyone involved and the funds raised will hopefully support him on his road to recovery.
Further information about the crowdfunding campaign and the next steps can be found on the “99 Sparks” platform Ostsee-Zeitung. Anyone who would like to support the good cause can also donate online here and become part of this important initiative.