Plan A, the dual career model of Hannover 96 and KGS Hemmingen in cooperation with TWIN is forging a new path in youth football. As an essential part of the model, our “96 Skills” curriculum was recently presented to the German Football Association (DFB).
96 Skills is a pioneering school subject for talented football players at the Hannover 96 Academy, conceptualized by TWIN. The curriculum has just started its second-year test phase at KGS Hemmingen, an Elite School of Football accredited by the DFB.
Re-imagining athlete education for young footballers
96 Skills represents more than just a class; it is a strategic approach to athlete development. It is built on the idea that learning can be a form of training, professionalizing personal growth for young footballers in key areas of their lives. The curriculum seamlessly merges athlete-specific personal development with off-pitch exposure and academic education. This comprehensive blend ensures players aged 15-18 are equipped for success both on the field and in spheres beyond the game.
The curriculum is built around 5+1 skill areas, which are taught to young players as part of their regular school schedule. The lessons are delivered by internal academy and school staff members, as well as external experts associated with Hannover 96’s high-performance environment:
- Core skills ⋅ Laying the foundation for personal development
- Life skills ⋅ Building inner and outer structures
- Mental skills ⋅ Increasing psychological capacity
- Communication skills ⋅ Enhancing relationship management
- Social skills ⋅ Promoting engagement with the world outside of football
- Extra skills
96 Skills presented to DFB
96 Skills has garnered attention beyond the club itself. In a significant development, TWIN CEO Wolfgang Stockinger—also a regular guest lecturer for the subject—recently presented the concept to the DFB together with the Hannover 96 Academy and KGS Hemmingen.
His showcase to the association’s Talent Promotion Department highlighted the innovative nature of the programme and its potential to influence future athlete development models on a bigger scale.
“Our work with Hannover 96 and KGS Hemmingen is more than just a local initiative; 96 Skills can inspire the future of youth player development in football. The model aims to prove that by prioritizing a player’s personal growth and education, we are not only building better players but also responsible, open-minded individuals prepared for success in any walk of life.”
Wolfgang Stockinger
