Jena's young athletes successful at national level

In the plenary hall of the historic town hall yesterday, 28 young athletes were honored who had been appointed to the national squads of their respective sports for 2026. Pupils and their coaches from the sports of athletics, soccer (female), futsal, triathlon, judo, badminton, basketball and wrestling were represented. All of them currently attend the Jena Sports School.

With 28 young athletes appointed to the national squad, the number is far higher than in previous years.

"A number that stands for hard work, discipline, talent and outstanding support,"

said Johannes Schleußner, head of the sports department, at the award ceremony. The variety of sports impressively demonstrates how broadly and efficiently young sport is positioned in Jena.

"With currently 115 sports clubs and over 29,000 members, Jena has an impressive sporting diversity. In addition to this breadth, it is also important for us not to lose sight of junior competitive sport and to promote it in a targeted manner",

said Schleußner, addressing the young athletes:

"You carry the name 'Jena' out - to competitions all over Germany and beyond. You are ambassadors for Jena in the best sense of the word. With your dedication, your discipline and your successes, you show what is possible when talent meets support and commitment."

The reception is a sign of recognition and appreciation from the city of Jena.

Principal Andy Poltrock emphasized that being called up to the national team is no coincidence and no gift.

"It is the result of countless hours of training, discipline and perseverance and the willingness to go beyond their own limits time and time again."

This achievement by the pupils goes far beyond the everyday and is anything but a matter of course. The festive event in the town hall was a good opportunity to look back, appreciate what had been achieved and, above all, enjoy it. Poltrock thanked all the coaches who are so committed to supporting the sporting development of the talented youngsters. He thanked the teachers, who often find flexible solutions so that training, competition and lessons can be combined, the parents, who support this path with patience, trust and support, and the city of Jena for hosting the reception.