Düren's volley surprise: kocian-falkenbach bets on regional power
A crushing playoff defeat for Düren’s Powervolleys didn’t dampen CEO Tomas Kocian-Falkenbach’s optimism. The club, reeling from injuries, is poised for a far more impactful season than many predicted, fueled by a bold vision and a deep understanding of its unique position in German volleyball.
Beyond the loss: a season of unexpected growth
The 28th of April saw Düren fall to Lüneburg, a bitter blow for a team that had invested heavily in expanding its fanbase. Yet, Kocian-Falkenbach insists the season was a resounding success, citing record attendance figures and a surge in regional interest – a remarkable feat considering their status as a Bundesliga mainstay.
A strategic shift: from ‘niche sport’ to regional force
“People talk about volleyball as a niche sport, a regional one,” Kocian-Falkenbach stated in a WDR interview. “But we’ve actively challenged that narrative. Düren isn’t just a volleyball club; it’s a focal point for sport in this area. We’re attracting people who wouldn’t normally attend a volleyball match – individuals who travel two-and-a-half hours just to see us play.”
Looking ahead: more than just a playoff run
With the new season kicking off in October, Kocian-Falkenbach’s focus is multifaceted. He’s overseeing budget negotiations, meticulously assembling a roster – though transfers remain under wraps – and ensuring every detail, from kit design to player accommodation, contributes to a premium event experience. “It’s never boring,” he admits with a wry smile. “We're actively reshaping what a volleyball game can be.”
Beyond the court: building a local ecosystem
The club’s ambition extends beyond the arena. They’re aiming to elevate the entire sporting landscape in Düren. “We’re not resting on our laurels,” Kocian-Falkenbach emphasizes. “We’re a Bundesliga team, yes, but we’re also creating an event – a spectacle – that demands attention. We’ve invested heavily in creating a truly immersive experience for our fans.”
A regional advantage: the unspoken truth
Despite repeated playoff appearances and a consistent presence in the top tier, Düren has often been overlooked on the national stage. “There’s a degree of frustration,” Kocian-Falkenbach concedes. “The sport deserves more visibility. But we’ve made a conscious decision to take control of our own narrative, to bypass the media and build our own platform through social media.”
The final verdict: a long tradition, a bold future
With 30 years of Bundesliga experience under their belt, Düren is setting its sights on the future. The goal? To not just compete, but to dominate. “We’re aiming for the Bundesliga title,” Kocian-Falkenbach concludes, a determined glint in his eye. “And, of course, to deliver a memorable experience for every single fan who walks through the doors of the Lanxess Arena in Cologne.”