On Monday, SV Werder and the Bremen Senate have agreed on conditions permitting the first team to resume training in small groups. The team began training under these strict conditions on Tuesday. Werder CEO Frank Baumann is pleased with this development. "We are happy to be able to take the next step, after weeks of individual training," he told WERDER.TV.
Separate dressing rooms, clearly defined training groups and two separate training grounds: like they have been over the past weeks, the Green-Whites continue to ensure that they are following all the precautions set forth by the authorities in order to prevent further spread of the virus. "One group is training in the stadium, the other on Field 11. The groups are kept as small as possible, in order to minimise physical contact. We're keeping an eye on maintaining the appropriate distance, just like we have been doing even prior to the limits being set on bodily contact," said Baumann.
Although the Senate's 16 requirements might seem extensive, Werder only need to fine-tune in a few areas. That's because the majority of the requirements have already been integrated into the club's day-to-day activities, with Baumann adding "The requirements don't pose a huge challenge for us, as we've already implemented many of them over the last few weeks."
That's also why he is taking a positive impression from the last few weeks. "I think that the footballing community has acted very responsibly and reliably," Baumann said, adding "It's a difficult situation for the authorities and the clubs. Of course, we're hoping for a nationwide solution, but our federal system in Germany makes it hard to coordinate between the different levels of government. Nevertheless, our aim is for there to be a single solution for the sport."
Even if a solution is found, the situation will have to be assessed again and "if necessary, adjustments made." That includes the organisation of the training sessions, which would make the work of the coaching staff even more challenging. "If it gets to where we are able to continue playing, then the players will need to have a certain level of fitness. We also want to get back into our rhythm both tactically and in terms of our technique, which is difficult with just four people. We will have to wait and see how the situation develops," said Baumann.
