25 Facts About 1. FC Heidenheim

The Origins of 1. FC Heidenheim

1. Founding and Name: 1. FC Heidenheim 1846, often called FC Heidenheim or simply Heidenheim, is a professional football club based in Heidenheim an der Brenz, Baden-Württemberg. The club's name reflects its long history, dating back to 1846.

2. Historical Background: The club's roots go back to 1846 with the founding of TG Heidenheim. Football was introduced in the 1910s. Over the years, the club has experienced several name changes and mergers.

3. Current Form: The modern-day Heidenheim was established in 2007 when the football team split from the Heidenheimer Sportbund, a larger sporting association with 24 departments.

Climbing the Ranks

4. Promotion to Bundesliga: In 2023, Heidenheim achieved a historic milestone by securing their first-ever promotion to the Bundesliga, Germany's top football division. Just 20 years ago, they were competing in the fifth tier.

5. Club Name Meaning: The name "1. FC Heidenheim 1846" nods to their earliest incarnation as a gymnastics club, established 20 years before association football was developed in England.

6. Stadium: Heidenheim plays its home games at the Voith-Arena, which is the highest stadium in Germany’s top three divisions, sitting 555 meters above sea level.

7. Capacity: The Voith-Arena can hold 15,000 spectators, creating a vibrant atmosphere for home matches.

Leadership and Management

8. President and CEO: Holger Sanwald serves as both President and CEO of the club. His leadership has been crucial in maintaining the club's financial stability and strategic direction.

9. Head Coach: Frank Schmidt has been the head coach since 2007. He is the longest-serving manager in German professional football history, surpassing Freiburg’s Christian Streich.

10. Managerial Achievements: Under Schmidt's guidance, Heidenheim has climbed the ranks, reaching the third tier in 2009, the second tier in 2014, and finally the Bundesliga in 2023.

Memorable Moments

11. Promotion Drama: Heidenheim's promotion to the Bundesliga was dramatic. They came back from a 2-0 deficit against Regensburg with two goals in added time from Beste and Kleindienst, clinching the division title and automatic promotion.

12. Historic DFB Cup Run: In the 2018/19 season, Heidenheim reached the quarter-finals of the DFB Cup. They nearly pulled off a stunning upset against eventual winners Bayern Munich in a thrilling nine-goal match.

Financial Stability and Strategy

13. Financial Stability: Despite limited financial resources, Heidenheim has remained financially stable thanks to Holger Sanwald’s economic advisory board and Klaus Mayer’s strategic planning.

14. Scouting Strategy: The club focuses on high-quality scouting rather than large transfer fees to build its team. This approach has been a key factor in their success.

15. Community Support: Heidenheim enjoys strong support from the local community, making it an attractive destination for players seeking a different environment when not playing.

Regional and Youth Development

16. Regional Advantage: Located in Baden-Württemberg, one of Germany’s wealthiest regions, the club benefits from local investment and support, contributing to its financial stability.

17. Youth Development: The club has a robust youth development program, with affiliated squads including 1. FC Heidenheim U17 and U19 teams.

Recent Achievements

18. Recent League Performance: In the 2023-2024 season, Heidenheim finished eighth in the Bundesliga, qualifying for the UEFA Conference League and earning their first taste of European football in 178 years.

19. Top Scorer: Tim Kleindienst emerged as the top scorer for Heidenheim, netting 12 goals by the end of the 2023-2024 season.

20. Goalkeeper: Kevin Müller has been the club's reliable goalkeeper for several seasons, providing consistent performance and support to the team.

21. Youngest Player: Eren Dinkçi is the youngest player to have played for Heidenheim, debuting at 21 years, 8 months, and 6 days old.

Tactical Approach and Future Prospects

22. Formation and Tactics: Heidenheim typically sets up in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-1-4-1 formation. They focus on defensive solidity and high-pressing tactics to challenge opponents high up the pitch.

23. Underdog Story: Heidenheim’s rise to the Bundesliga is often described as an underdog story, given their small-town origins and limited financial resources.

24. Club-by-Club Historical Guide: Bundesliga.com has featured a club-by-club historical guide, highlighting Heidenheim’s remarkable rise from amateur football to the top tier.

25. Future Prospects: With their historic promotion to the Bundesliga and successful European debut, Heidenheim is poised to make a lasting impact in German football, potentially becoming a regular contender in both domestic and international competitions.

Heidenheim's Remarkable Journey

1. FC Heidenheim's story is nothing short of inspiring. From humble beginnings as a gymnastics club in 1846 to their historic promotion to the Bundesliga in 2023, the club has shown what determination and smart planning can achieve. With Frank Schmidt at the helm since 2007, Heidenheim has climbed the ranks of German football, reaching new heights each season. Their dramatic promotion, strong community support, and financial stability have made them a standout in the football world. The Voith-Arena, perched 555 meters above sea level, adds to their unique charm. As they continue to make waves in the Bundesliga and even venture into European competitions, Heidenheim proves that even small-town clubs can dream big and succeed. Their journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic planning, and unwavering support from fans and the community.