Wolfsburg, Germany – The Wolfsburg Blackbirds baseball team has been named Wolfsburg’s Team of the Year for 2025, a testament to their successful season and significant contributions to the local sports community. The announcement came during the annual Ehrung der Sportler*innen des Jahres (Athlete of the Year) ceremony held on April 29th at Schloss Wolfsburg, recognizing outstanding athletic achievements within the city.
The Blackbirds, representing VfB Fallersleben e. V., secured the top spot with an impressive 40 percent of the votes, according to a press release from the city of Wolfsburg. This honor caps off a remarkable year for the team, which achieved a second-place finish in the Verbandsliga before making the bold decision to move up to the 2. Bundesliga. The team’s commitment to growth and development was further highlighted by the opening of their latest home field, the “Birdcage,” at the Herzbergstadion in Mörse.
The opening of the Birdcage, built with significant effort from the team itself, was a major highlight of the year. The facility was officially inaugurated in May with a ceremonial first pitch thrown by Wolfsburg’s Oberbürgermeister (Mayor) Dennis Weilmann. This new facility provides a dedicated space for the Blackbirds to train and compete, fostering a stronger sense of community and pride within the club.
As well recognized at the Ehrung der Sportler*innen des Jahres were individual athletes Samil Türk, named Sportsman of the Year for his achievements in kickboxing with the Amateur Kick-Box-Club e. V., and Laura Burbulla, honored as Sportswoman of the Year for her accomplishments in track and field with VfL Wolfsburg e. V. The ceremony, led by Axel Piepers, Head of the Sports Department for the City of Wolfsburg, celebrated the diverse range of sporting talent within the city.
“The diversity of the achievements recognized underscores the strength and breadth of sports in Wolfsburg,” Piepers stated, as reported by the City of Wolfsburg. “Our young talents impressively demonstrate the potential they possess. The honor should not only give them recognition but also motivation to continue their athletic path with commitment and joy.”
Walter Schauer, the department head for the Blackbirds, expressed his immense pride in the team’s achievement. “Here’s a huge thing for us! The award is the well-deserved reward for everyone who has supported the Blackbirds in recent years – whether players, coaches, family members, volunteer supporters, or sponsors. A huge thank you to the entire Blackbirds family!”
The Ehrung der Sportler*innen des Jahres is an annual event organized by the City of Wolfsburg to acknowledge and celebrate the accomplishments of its athletes. This year’s ceremony, like those in previous years, served as a platform to recognize not only athletic prowess but also the dedication, teamwork, and community spirit that define Wolfsburg’s vibrant sports scene. The event highlights the city’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for young athletes and promoting the growth of sports at all levels.
The Blackbirds’ success story is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating the impact of dedicated effort and community involvement. Their move to the 2. Bundesliga represents a significant step forward for the club, and the new Birdcage facility provides a solid foundation for continued growth and success. For baseball fans in the region, and for the city of Wolfsburg as a whole, the Blackbirds’ achievements are a source of considerable pride.
Looking ahead, the Wolfsburg Blackbirds will begin their campaign in the 2. Bundesliga, with their first home game scheduled for [Date to be confirmed – check VfB Fallersleben e. V. Website for details]. Fans can stay updated on the team’s progress and schedule through the club’s official website and social media channels.
The City of Wolfsburg continues to prioritize youth sports development, aiming to provide young talents with the best possible conditions to thrive. The annual Ehrung der Sportler*innen des Jahres serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in the future of sports and celebrating the achievements of those who dedicate themselves to athletic excellence.
