The holiday season often prompts reflection, and for some, a decision to change course. This is the case for Gunnar Grundmann, a 52-year-old former professional soccer player who, three years ago, decided to embark on a completely new career path – a challenging journey that deserves recognition.
Grundmann began his career in 1988 with Dynamo Dresden’s youth system, quickly progressing to the professional squad at age 17 during the final season of the Oberliga under coach Reinhard Häfner (who has since passed away). He remained with Dynamo throughout its Bundesliga years, though always as a reserve goalkeeper. “I was repeatedly passed over for others, the last being Mark Schwarzer,” Grundmann recalls, acknowledging Schwarzer’s later successful career with clubs like Fulham and Chelsea.
Frustrated with his lack of playing time, Grundmann moved to VfB Leipzig in 1995, where he experienced his most successful period as a player, with seven appearances in the Second Bundesliga. However, internal disputes soon led to the club’s financial crisis and eventual insolvency. “I’m still chasing money from that time,” Grundmann stated, noting he is unlikely to recover approximately 7,000 euros in unpaid insolvency benefits for three months of work.
The situation led Grundmann to end his professional career at the age of 30. He returned to Dynamo Dresden as a goalkeeping coach and co-founded a sports equipment company with former teammates, though with limited financial success. Grundmann admits, “It wasn’t enough to live on, but too much to simply give up.”
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting collapse in sales prompted further reconsideration. “The time felt right for change, and especially for financial security,” he explained. His original trade – all non-studying soccer players in East Germany were trained as machine and plant operators – proved unfulfilling.
Inspired by his partner, who had retrained as an educator, Grundmann considered his experience working with young people during his time running a goalkeeping school. He realized he enjoyed the interaction and made a decision – around the time of Christmas three years ago – to pursue a career in early childhood education.
In the summer of 2023, Grundmann began a part-time training program, balancing school with work at the Kinderschutzbund, a child protection organization. He currently works at the “Kita Naseweis” (Nosewise) daycare center in Dresden-Plauen, caring for a group of children aged three to six. He has quickly become popular with the children, colleagues, and parents.
The path to qualification, expected in the summer of 2027, is demanding. Grundmann divides his time between classes, practical work, and weekend study, in addition to a required internship, currently at a residential care facility for adolescents aged 14 to 18. “It’s only possible because my children are grown and independent,” he said, adding that he has put his goalkeeping school on hold, at least until he completes his training.
Viel Arbeit, wenig Freizeit
Upon completion of his studies, Grundmann will be qualified as a state-recognized educator – the bureaucratic term for a Bachelor-level professional in social work. His future remains open, with potential roles ranging from working in nurseries to supporting young adults. “I still need to think that through, maybe make a pros and cons list,” he said.
Perhaps the holidays will provide the time for that reflection, if not this year, then next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Gunnar Grundmann to change careers?
After a professional soccer career cut short by financial issues and limited playing opportunities, and exacerbated by the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Grundmann sought greater financial security and a career he found fulfilling.
What is Grundmann currently studying to become?
Grundmann is undertaking a part-time training program to become a state-recognized educator, a qualification that will allow him to work with children and young people.
What challenges is Grundmann facing during his retraining?
Grundmann is balancing school, practical work at the Kinderschutzbund, and an internship, all while still attempting to recover unpaid wages from his time with VfB Leipzig.
What factors might influence someone to make a significant career change later in life?
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