On May 29 and 30, 2026, the youth committees of the Brandenburg Football Association (FLB) and the Berlin Football Association (BFV) met for a joint conference at the Wannsee Sports School. After a break of nine years, the professional exchange between the two youth committees was revived. The aim was to gain a mutual insight into the respective working methods and topics, such as structures, match operations, sports court, talent development, young generation and children's soccer.

Differences and similarities

The first day of the meeting began with an introduction of the individual participants and the respective youth committee structures, followed by an exploration of the differences and similarities in responsibilities and day-to-day business. Another intensive item on the agenda was match operations. Among other things, questions about the league structure, divisions, promotion and relegation as well as the special features of the game in Brandenburg in the soccer districts and at state level were examined. In an open exchange, the different working methods in youth work were discussed, especially with regard to different approaches and best practice examples. Dealing with sports court issues and sanctions was also part of the meeting.

Day two began with the two committees giving each other an insight into the organization and implementation of events such as indoor championships, cup finals and championship ceremonies. The BFV presentation on the topic of the young generation under 30 was of particular interest to the Brandenburgers, as the department is not currently part of the FLB youth committee. In addition, the topics of talent development, children's soccer and school soccer took up a lot of space. The association structures of both regional associations were also discussed.

"Very good basis for further cooperation"

Matthias Reer, Chairman of the FLB Youth Committee, summed up the successful conference as follows: "Despite the geographical and structural differences between the state of Brandenburg with its independent district game operations and the city association of Berlin, the joint exchange showed that there were many similarities and aha effects. An exchange at eye level that makes you want more".

BFV Presidential Member for Youth Frank Schröder added: "The two-day exchange showed that despite the different structures in youth soccer, there is a very good basis for further cooperation. Both national associations took away a lot of valuable information. Unfortunately, several sporting topics could only be addressed briefly due to the large number of participants, which is why it is necessary to maintain the profile of this event in the future.

The BFV would like to thank the FLB for their participation and the open, constructive discussions and looks forward to continuing the format in the interests of youth soccer.