Blog

Forget about the Colosseum, <a data-mce-href="https://playerzone.roundnetgermany.de/tournaments/330-2024-06-22-masters-munchen-powered-by-yfood" href="https://playerzone.roundnetgermany.de/tournaments/330-2024-06-22-masters-munchen-powered-by-yfood">Munich Masters</a> just became the hottest arena in Europe for Roundnet! Surpassing even the prestigious <a data-mce-href="https://fwango.io/etsbern2024/results?div=kobt712ardhK8vNrU6Gv" href="https://fwango.io/etsbern2024/results?div=kobt712ardhK8vNrU6Gv">ETS Bern</a>, this German tournament smashed attendance records with a staggering 264 teams. Buckle up as we dive into the stories that unfolded at the Munich Masters, fueled by <a data-mce-href="https://www.yfood.eu/" href="https://www.yfood.eu/">yFood</a> and <a data-mce-href="https://www.spezi-krombacher.de/" href="https://www.spezi-krombacher.de/">Krombacher Spezi</a>!<h3>Master attendance</h3>In a nail-biting showdown, Munich Masters, sanctioned by <a data-mce-href="https://www.roundnet.eu/" href="https://www.roundnet.eu/">EURA</a>, edged out ETS Bern by a single team—264 to 263—across two intense days. Now you know why I put “so far” in the preview about ETS Bern😉.But why the big numbers? Look at the map of Europe: both cities sit centrally, making them easily accessible by land and air. Plus, Germany boasts the largest player base across Europe, a fact that EURA and Spikeball have often overlooked. Just think about tournaments in the past in places such as Ireland, the UK, Romania, Latvia, or even this year's ETS in <a data-mce-href="https://fwango.io/etshelsinki2024" href="https://fwango.io/etshelsinki2024">Helsinki, Finland</a>.<h3>Depth of Women’s Field</h3>The Munich Masters showcased the depth of European women's roundnet. A staggering 46 and 51 teams competed in the women's division, respectively, fueling a massive 100 and 104 mixed/co-ed teams. This difference reflects the additional women's and mixed divisions offered at Munich compared to Bern's two. In the open category, Bern took the win with 117 teams across three divisions, compared to Munich's 109 teams spread across five.This raises the question: are more divisions the way to go for future tournaments? Let us know your thoughts <a data-mce-href="mailto:blog@futureroundnet.com" href="mailto:blog@futureroundnet.com">here</a>!<h3>Finishing on Time: A Refreshing Change</h3>European roundnet fans are accustomed to late finishes, sometimes stretching past 9:30 pm. The reasons vary, but that's a discussion for another time.The <a data-mce-href="https://munichroundnet.de/" href="https://munichroundnet.de/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Munich Roundnet Community</a> (MRC) organization team proved that timely finishes are possible. Both days, all players were off the court by 6 pm! Sure, there were adjustments like best-of-three finals to 15 points and an earlier 7:30 am start (even before the courts officially opened). But it worked!The secret sauce? Incredible teamwork from the "unsung heroes" - the volunteers and everyone who pitched in, as depicted below by <a data-mce-href="https://roundnetandsports.smugmug.com/" href="https://roundnetandsports.smugmug.com/" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">Ruwen Schröder - Roundnet Sports Photography</a>.<figure id="figure-3fuiv30jiulxx0585l"><img id="3fuiv30jiulxx0585l" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16UkBMs9AfPYpOYf35pAFLpDKfkVEElmmq7bV6V3iyZXXCkV5rpGUMDhhQI6QklT.jpg" alt="woman wearing blue top while standing on plain field" title="woman wearing blue top while standing on plain field" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Volunteers from Munich Roundnet Community e.V. 📸 roundnet.sports.photography" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16UkBMs9AfPYpOYf35pAFLpDKfkVEElmmq7bV6V3iyZXXCkV5rpGUMDhhQI6QklT.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Volunteers from Munich Roundnet Community e.V. 📸 roundnet.sports.photography</figcaption></figure>The <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/munich.roundnet/" href="https://www.instagram.com/munich.roundnet/">MRC</a> is a seasoned tournament organizer, running events since 2020 (at least twice a year). For example, in 2023, they hosted a U21 Championship at the same venue. Building on their experience, they implemented the lessons learned (apparently, 6 pm means 6 pm in Germany!) This year, under the leadership of Carolin Marquart, Fiona Rocholl, and the entire team, the Munich Masters was a resounding success, as I can personally attest!<figure id="figure-sxduaaunxolxw7w5nu"><img id="sxduaaunxolxw7w5nu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22U10fTxuHtxMzLGGR1tucLbU52NWGX2f9rJhu9At8trXGpDxtXDoNEmi9sDc1D2.jpg" alt="portrait roundnet tournament director" title="portrait roundnet tournament director" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 60% 50%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="One of the main organisers, Carolin Marquart had everything under control 📸 two_swedes" data-positionx="60%" data-positiony="50%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/22U10fTxuHtxMzLGGR1tucLbU52NWGX2f9rJhu9At8trXGpDxtXDoNEmi9sDc1D2.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 60% 50%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">One of the main organisers, Carolin Marquart had everything under control 📸 two_swedes</figcaption></figure><h3>Results - ETS Bern</h3>Open Pro - Eisenträger/Siemer 🇩🇪 played and won. Women Pro - Nova (Kunzelmann🇨🇭/Paysan 🇫🇷) played and won. Mixed Pro - Triple X (Siemer 🇩🇪/Kunzelmann🇨🇭) played and won.<h3>Results - MUC Masters</h3>Open Pro - Eisenträger/Siemer 🇩🇪 played and won. Women Pro - Tiramisu (Leybourne/Kadlec 🇦🇹) played and won. Mixed Pro - Racooligans (Claus/Knauf 🇩🇪) played and won.However, <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/tiramisu_roundnet/" href="https://www.instagram.com/tiramisu_roundnet/">Tiramisu</a>—the Austrian powerhouse—has danced on the edge of victory and defeat. Four finals, four heart-pounding moments. Three times, Nova stood as their nemesis (at the 3rd Mallorca Open, ETS Barcelona, and ETS Bern), while Chitty Bang&nbsp; (Washburn🇩🇰/Lorenz 🇩🇪) delivered the decisive blow at ETS Bologna. These battles have forged resilience, pushing Tiramisu forward.Speaking of Austria🇦🇹, the weekend was a showcase for their strong women's scene. They claimed podium finishes in the Advanced, Contender, and even a double-threat in the Pro division! Tiramisu secured the top spot, while Curly Fries (Teskey/Kornek) secured a well-deserved third place.&nbsp;To learn even more about the storylines, check out <a data-mce-href="https://roundnetgermany.de/nachbericht-masters-muenchen/" href="https://roundnetgermany.de/nachbericht-masters-muenchen/">Roundnet Germany's report</a> about the weekend! It is worth starting to learn 🇩🇪.<h3>Before you go - ETS Helsinki July 13-14&nbsp;</h3>Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure! Finland, the exotic roundnet destination, awaits. Sure, it might not be a stone’s throw away for most of you, but trust me—the <a data-mce-href="https://www.roundnet.fi/ets-helsinki-2024/" href="https://www.roundnet.fi/ets-helsinki-2024/">Roundnet Finland </a>crew has rolled out the red carpet. And it’s not just about roundnet; Finland boasts breathtaking landscapes, thousands of serene lakes, saunas, and a dash of vodka. What’s not to love?&nbsp;👉 Sign up <a data-mce-href="https://fwango.io/etshelsinki2024" href="https://fwango.io/etshelsinki2024">here: ETS Helsinki 2024 via Fwango</a><h3>ETS Championship 2024: Vienna Calling! &nbsp;August 10-11!</h3>Mark your calendars! Less than 6 weeks remain until the European Roundnet Tour Series Championship in Vienna, Austria. Over 150 teams have already secured their spots, but don’t dilly-dally—prices go up on July 11th! Check out the <a data-mce-href="https://ets.viennaroundnet.at/" href="https://ets.viennaroundnet.at/">extra website</a> made for the event!While it’s not a competition 😉, imagine being there—playing, cheering, and soaking up the electric atmosphere. With 12 different divisions (including intermediate and beginner), you’ll witness the pinnacle of Roundnet in Europe.👉 Sign up <a data-mce-href="https://fwango.io/etsvienna2024" href="https://fwango.io/etsvienna2024">here: ETS Championship Vienna 2024 via Fwango</a>Whether you’re chasing spikes in Helsinki or savoring the vibes in Vienna, these tournaments promise unforgettable moments. See you on the court! Attacke!------------------------Do you want to be the first one to learn about new articles, and special offers (coaching or events) and interact more with us, <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/future_roundnet/" href="https://www.instagram.com/future_roundnet/">Future Roundnet</a>? Sign up for our free <a data-mce-href="https://jakub32.ecomailapp.cz/public/form/7-c01458c4e85a58f0047857fac06ae283" href="https://jakub32.ecomailapp.cz/public/form/7-c01458c4e85a58f0047857fac06ae283">newsletter here</a> and don't miss another set😉.We recently developed our own <a data-mce-href="https://linktr.ee/futureroundnet" href="https://linktr.ee/futureroundnet">Roundnet Coaching App</a> - you can download it for free in the<a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/de/app/roundnet-coaching/id6478408138?l=en-GB" href="https://apps.apple.com/de/app/roundnet-coaching/id6478408138?l=en-GB"> App Store </a>or <a data-mce-href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.psrgrlubbkj.pt7oghaeapp&amp;pcampaignid=web_share" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.psrgrlubbkj.pt7oghaeapp&amp;pcampaignid=web_share">Google Play Store</a>.<figure id="figure-aepaj554q7lxvy7gwp"><img id="aepaj554q7lxvy7gwp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1d7mUYsF7ESurvTq5jsnCyRYKAAn6hGRLl3lgcLc0C7H32cXfIlpO7DHuXS4KSzx.jpg" alt="women talking" title="women talking" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Available now!" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1d7mUYsF7ESurvTq5jsnCyRYKAAn6hGRLl3lgcLc0C7H32cXfIlpO7DHuXS4KSzx.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Available now!</figcaption></figure>

Roundnet Royalty Gathers in Munich: Record-Breaking Masters Makes Statement!

Cover picture 📸 <a data-mce-href="https://www.instagram.com/roundnet.sports.photography/" href="https://www.instagram.com/roundnet.sports.photography/">roundnet.sports.photography</a>In the words of the greatest Arnold Schwarzenegger:<figure id="figure-4hr5s89s48lxhyixw0" class=""><img id="4hr5s89s48lxhyixw0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8uRtHoWzfSxz8nFMsyTqnNNb11GQdb7Rjzj4310x1Wkqy3iPbUjDoUAMXuQZZKAj.png" alt="person holding compass selective focus photography" title="person holding compass selective focus photography" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="*We´re" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/8uRtHoWzfSxz8nFMsyTqnNNb11GQdb7Rjzj4310x1Wkqy3iPbUjDoUAMXuQZZKAj.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">*We´re</figcaption></figure>I know we kept you waiting for the next podcast episode. Sorry about that. But trust us, it was worth the wait!<h3>Laura Kunzelmann - The Best Female Spikeball/Roundnet of the World and Even a Better Human</h3><figure id="figure-to1xo3h8glxhyo27y"><img id="to1xo3h8glxhyo27y" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1agSwOwFYk5ymBOKomw7rSzweem8LgF15M2fvytEpWKkzGWnOBu5PbuMk8Xt6VV9.jpg" alt="woman sitting on yellow armless chair near gray laptop computer" title="woman sitting on yellow armless chair near gray laptop computer" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Looks who is crawling back - Laura Kunzelmann! 📸 RC Bern" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1agSwOwFYk5ymBOKomw7rSzweem8LgF15M2fvytEpWKkzGWnOBu5PbuMk8Xt6VV9.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Looks who is crawling back - Laura Kunzelmann! 📸 RC Bern</figcaption></figure> This <a data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/LauraFRpodcast" href="https://bit.ly/LauraFRpodcast">podcast episode</a> discusses Laura's life on and off the court, her training routine, experiences, insights from playing with top players, competition in Europe, her coaching career, women's empowerment, self-confidence in crucial match moments, the importance of mental focus, and success in tournaments. Laura reflects on her competitive mindset, achievements, and participation in significant tournaments like the Cologne Trophy 2021. The conversation also covers handling pressure, mental strength, the importance of past successes, competitive spirit, learning from experienced players, and initial tournament successes.Let's work together to empower more people, especially women, to discover roundnet and help them to unleash their full potential.<h3>IMPORTANT side note:</h3>Shortly after we recorded the podcast in May, Laura decided to step back from roundnet for a couple of weeks to get a new perspective. That was the reason why we held off the publication of the episode since we (Jakub and Laura) wanted to make sure it would communicate the right message to the audience.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-eagisbjjblxhz9xpk"><img id="eagisbjjblxhz9xpk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20rvDuesAryF5dTGWmXyX7a8sxaYagCYUvIjvEU5hLNH4uAMlK7abHCdGktrgnZN.jpg" alt="person walking on beach during daytime" title="person walking on beach during daytime" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Laura had some thinking to do..." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20rvDuesAryF5dTGWmXyX7a8sxaYagCYUvIjvEU5hLNH4uAMlK7abHCdGktrgnZN.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Laura had some thinking to do...</figcaption></figure>Laura opted to create a different balance in her life, having dedicated a substantial amount of time to roundnet.Fortunately for all of us and the sport, Laura is back! And how! &nbsp;Last weekend at the ETS (European Roundnet Tour Series) Bern, 08-09.06.24, her teams won both women´s and mixed divisions - Nova with I. Paysan and Triple X with P. Siemer.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-3y2zdz3m1lxhygznp"><img id="3y2zdz3m1lxhygznp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38oQJdZ5M0zu1QDZHTDekENff3MAjWTZ4EDkIygiJopl2ocKiChXR1F1a95ZQw3v.jpg" alt="shallow focus photo of woman in beige open cardigan" title="shallow focus photo of woman in beige open cardigan" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Laura and Ines are all smiles again 😍 📸 RC Bern" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38oQJdZ5M0zu1QDZHTDekENff3MAjWTZ4EDkIygiJopl2ocKiChXR1F1a95ZQw3v.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Laura and Ines are all smiles again 😍 📸 RC Bern</figcaption></figure><h3>Psychology lesson</h3> Lastly, I (Jakub) mixed up the terms when discussing the science behind anchoring (Laura snapping her fingers, starting at the 20-minute mark). The finger snap is the anchor, which puts Laura in a ready state for the next point. That is called classical conditioning (Pawlow). Operant conditioning is learning from your actions. Doing your chores might lead to more phone time (positive reinforcement) or forgetting them could mean no TV (punishment).<h3>Anyway</h3>Enjoy the show on <a data-mce-href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Q6pftwH7GpE4hPaeI2mNO?si=b27757d901c24f88" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Q6pftwH7GpE4hPaeI2mNO?si=b27757d901c24f88">Spotify</a>!<figure id="figure-0hb13giqdhlxje0387"><img id="0hb13giqdhlxje0387" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18zMJQcwXSidxjTNLiKZu9RwXYMjER3AbHT2KGgnopt4ajFREMyCZD9AogluFjJy.jpg" alt="woman placing sticky notes on wall" title="woman placing sticky notes on wall" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/18zMJQcwXSidxjTNLiKZu9RwXYMjER3AbHT2KGgnopt4ajFREMyCZD9AogluFjJy.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>

Podcast Exclusive - Laura Kunzelmann - Meet the Other Side of the Roundnet Phenomenon

Written by He Who Must Not be Named, edited by J. PopluharMark your calendars! ETS Bern (June 8th &amp; 9th, 2024) is shaping up to be the biggest roundnet tournament of the season yet. With a staggering 119 open teams (including 41 in the Pro Division) and an impressive 46 women's teams, a total of 165 teams will battle it out across five divisions on Saturday. On Sunday, a staggering 103 mixed teams will play it out to see who is the best.We're well into the European roundnet season, with the fourth ETS about to take place. After Barcelona, Bologna, and Leuven we're now going to Bern, Switzerland.<figure id="figure-l40ciijuglx4e0dqq" class=""><img id="l40ciijuglx4e0dqq" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dqc3dBkXgja4aBU8O552g7M7QX5YVgSUr3DXT2uBFmrWTlZjQbwF8h6L6cKPm5HX.png" alt="two people sitting during day" title="two people sitting during day" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Community of RC Bern 📸 roundnetclubbern" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dqc3dBkXgja4aBU8O552g7M7QX5YVgSUr3DXT2uBFmrWTlZjQbwF8h6L6cKPm5HX.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Community of RC Bern 📸 roundnetclubbern</figcaption>The high participation in the ETS Bern tournament won't surprise casual observers. Being the only EURA-selected ETS tournament in central (Roundnet) Europe, Bern's accessibility naturally attracts many teams. In addition,<a href="https://www.roundnetclubbern.ch/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://www.roundnetclubbern.ch/"> Roundnet Club Bern</a> has been successfully running events since 2018 and it is known for its professionalism and welcoming community.</figure>The season has been quite unpredictable with some surprising results and upsets. Every tournament so far was been won by a different team. However, we'd like to mention that the European powerhouse Eistenträger/Siemer only played in one of those, winning Leuven in a very convincing fashion.Lukas and Paul haven't lost in Europe to a European team since their semi-final loss to RCG Powerline (🇦🇹) at the European Championship in Ireland in 2022 (the only other loss was at STS Toulouse 2023 in the semi-final against a Canadian duo V. Mathieu/E. Pilon). A very impressive win streak, making them the top favorites once again.Even if it's the most stacked tournament so far, it's hard to see a different outcome for ETS Bern, but... The weather forecast is looking pretty bad, predicting a lot of rain, which could prove to be a huge factor. There are a lot of serve-dominant teams who might struggle to find their cuts and reverses due to the wet conditions because one cannot get a good grip on a wet ball, necessary to give the ball a desired spin.<figure id="figure-lispqz9tblx4dsahx" class=""><img id="lispqz9tblx4dsahx" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1592246479015-953b2dab4711?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8cmFpbmluZ3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MTc3NDYyOTJ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="black and brown bird on wooden fence" title="black and brown bird on wooden fence" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Will players stay dry at the weekend?" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1592246479015-953b2dab4711?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxOXx8cmFpbmluZ3xlbnwwfHx8fDE3MTc3NDYyOTJ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Will players stay dry at the weekend?</figcaption>If we were to name a few: Harder/Bürkle, Willy Wonka, Christiani/Krehle (all 🇩🇪), Vibin', Bazzani/Borsotti,... All teams would be in a lot of people’s top 3 predictions. And yes also E/S won’t ace as much, as their improved serving game has helped them a lot so far this season.</figure>The rain offers the defensive-minded teams a bigger chance of victory. RCG Powerline (🇦🇹) is one of them of course, Rainbow Warriors (🇩🇪) also comes to mind, Erik/Markos (🇪🇸), RCB Drü (🇨🇭), Paindrops (🇩🇪/🇦🇹),… It's a pity French champions Hors Service (🇫🇷) aren't here this week, these conditions would have favored them a lot.If it turns out that it's not raining then this preview was for nothing - touché.<h3>Return of Willy Wonka</h3>Moreover, European Roundnet fans will finally have the opportunity to spectate the German phenomenon and roundnet entertainers - Willy Wonka from Berlin. Last season, after qualifying for Pro at ETS Prague by winning the Contender division, WW - E. Grönebaum/R. Prüfer, played only one other ETS - Vienna, where they finished 3rd, only falling short of eventual winners, consisting of two superstars: 2022 World Champion from the USA, Fredric Hinkle and Mario Bürkle (🇩🇪).<figure id="figure-0odfso2bw8lx4e6gee"><img id="0odfso2bw8lx4e6gee" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35MRuMziu85HKfAdP1w844cCHu58J6uKeWESMZmVRatsEl3pJWg8B1iEkA6PX4We.jpg" alt="shallow focus photo of woman in beige open cardigan" title="shallow focus photo of woman in beige open cardigan" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 30%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="E. Grönebaum low fives R. Prüfer after yet another ace" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="30%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35MRuMziu85HKfAdP1w844cCHu58J6uKeWESMZmVRatsEl3pJWg8B1iEkA6PX4We.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 30%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">E. Grönebaum low fives R. Prüfer after yet another ace</figcaption></figure>On the question, of why does WW not travel more, they answered:<blockquote>Although the people at the international tournaments are incredibly nice and always offer a nice atmosphere, the traveling distances and destinations are also far away and therefore more expensive than German tournaments, where you can also play at a high level against European top teams.</blockquote>Furthermore, WW explained that the German coaches decided at the start of the season that the performances at the German Masters tournaments would be the biggest factor in the selection process for German teams, therefore they focus on them. Their big goal for the season is to become part of the German national team for Worlds 2024 in London.<h3>Battle for Elite Points for the Championship</h3>Lastly, as we're getting closer and closer to the ETS Championship in Vienna more teams will also be thinking about the points they still need to earn to secure a spot in the elite division. It's proving to be a tight race.As we didn't want to have another regular preview, going over possible winners, we asked some of the teams to give their top 3 predictions.Frederik Hinkle (2022 World Champion 🇺🇸):1. E/S 2. Zwaffle Everyone 3. RCB DrüZwaffle Everyone1. E/S 2. RCG Powerline 3. Roundnet BourguignonNever Cold:1. E/S 2. Rainbow Warriors 3. Zwaffle EveryoneChristiani/Krehle1. E/S 2. Zwaffle Everyone 3. Christiani/KrehleRainbow Warriors:1. Rainbow Warriors 2. Zwaffle Everyone 3. Willy WonkaWilly Wonka:1. E/S 2. Zwaffle Everyone 3. Rainbow WarriorsPaindrops:1. Paindrops 2. RCG Powerline 3. Bo JondiErik/Marcos1. E/S 2. Zwaffle Everyone 3. Christiani/KrehleBazzani/Borsotti:1. E/S 2. Bazzani/Borsotti 3. Zwaffle EveryoneBürkle/Harder:1. E/S 2. Rainbow Warriors 3. Zwaffle Everyone 🔥Hot take🔥: Zwaffle Everyone are the only players in quarters not speaking German.You can follow the event scores<a data-mce-href="https://fwango.io/etsbern2024" href="https://fwango.io/etsbern2024"> here</a> and watch the stream on <a data-mce-href="https://www.youtube.com/@European_Roundnet_Association" href="https://www.youtube.com/@European_Roundnet_Association">EURA YouTube channel</a>.Do you agree with the predictions? Let us know <a data-mce-href="mailto:blog@futureroundnet.com" href="mailto:blog@futureroundnet.com">here</a>, or on <a data-mce-href="https://discord.gg/HJ52b7psKX" href="https://discord.gg/HJ52b7psKX">European Discord server</a> in the channel “hot-and-cold-takes”.--------------------------------------Do you want to be the first one to learn about new articles, and special offers (coaching or events) and interact more with us, Future Roundnet? <a data-mce-href="https://jakub32.ecomailapp.cz/public/form/7-c01458c4e85a58f0047857fac06ae283" href="https://jakub32.ecomailapp.cz/public/form/7-c01458c4e85a58f0047857fac06ae283">Sign up</a> for our <a data-mce-href="https://jakub32.ecomailapp.cz/public/form/7-c01458c4e85a58f0047857fac06ae283" href="https://jakub32.ecomailapp.cz/public/form/7-c01458c4e85a58f0047857fac06ae283">free newsletter</a> here and don't miss another set😉.We recently developed our own <a data-mce-href="https://roundnet-coaching.passion.io/" href="https://roundnet-coaching.passion.io/">Roundnet Coaching App</a> - you can download it for free in the <a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/de/app/roundnet-coaching/id6478408138?l=en-GB" href="https://apps.apple.com/de/app/roundnet-coaching/id6478408138?l=en-GB">App Store </a>or <a data-mce-href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.psrgrlubbkj.pt7oghaeapp&amp;pcampaignid=web_share" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.psrgrlubbkj.pt7oghaeapp&amp;pcampaignid=web_share">Google Play Store</a>.<figure id="figure-lfqgnlcp4llx4egzkp"><img id="lfqgnlcp4llx4egzkp" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1d7mUYsF7ESurvTq5jsnCyRYKAAn6hGRLl3lgcLc0C7H32cXfIlpO7DHuXS4KSzx.jpg" alt="Download and train roundnet!" title="Download and train roundnet!" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Download and train roundnet!" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1d7mUYsF7ESurvTq5jsnCyRYKAAn6hGRLl3lgcLc0C7H32cXfIlpO7DHuXS4KSzx.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Download and train roundnet!</figcaption></figure>

Biggest Roundnet Tournament of the Year! (so far) - ETS BERN, Open Pro Preview

by Jaroslav Cabala.E/S (Eisenträger/Siemer) will win. End of the preview. <figure id="figure-a9r1mz8p2lw0yldjz"><img id="a9r1mz8p2lw0yldjz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23bz5Pfv4vPQQ1ppjpH4KAk6JkbVrHV8hO7Ijf5m495RsOx0N3ouzgWh9113UZBU.jpg" alt="roundnet champions" title="roundnet champions" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="E/S recently winning the Cologne Trophy. 📸 1. Roundnet Club Köln" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23bz5Pfv4vPQQ1ppjpH4KAk6JkbVrHV8hO7Ijf5m495RsOx0N3ouzgWh9113UZBU.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">E/S recently won the Cologne Trophy. 📸 1. Roundnet Club Köln</figcaption></figure> Or will they? Yes, they will. Who can end up on the podium with E/S? Tomorrow, May 11 2024 in Leuven, Belgium, will bring the answer.Besides our predictions, you can expect the return of your favorite US-based roundnet content creator to Europe&nbsp; - Conor Prelich (Googles).Anyway, judging by the season, Vibin, Rainbow Warriors and Bazzani/Borsotti would be my picks. Bazzani/Borsotti just recently finished second at Cologne Trophy, Rainbow Warriors got podium in Bologna and Cologne Roudnet Trophy and Vibin won Barcelona. Levi also won Bologna with Nelson and he will play basically at home with lots of Belgians cheering for Vibin.<figure id="figure-8acwr0u1gelw0y3wt6"><img id="8acwr0u1gelw0y3wt6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0UwRasnwBJ9NBPCtB5YLaSJ2geOZxvhcxh02I1mXRluoCEp9tAvExvVUi4DAHFSY.png" alt="roundnet European superstars" title="roundnet European superstars" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: null% 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="from left: Vandaele L. (Vibin), Borsotti A. (Bazzani/Borsotti) and Eisenträger L. - will these three meet at the podium again with their respective partners? 📸 yellowballcult" data-positionx="null%" data-positiony="100%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/0UwRasnwBJ9NBPCtB5YLaSJ2geOZxvhcxh02I1mXRluoCEp9tAvExvVUi4DAHFSY.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: null% 100%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">from left: Vandaele L. (Vibin), Borsotti A. (Bazzani/Borsotti) and Eisenträger L. - will these three meet at the podium again with their respective partners? 📸 yellowballcult</figcaption></figure>But the field is stacked and I would love to see some surprising results.The following teams probably won't win, but they have a good chance to make it to Quarters and possibly further:Combat Boys(Anderle/Dziruni) is a strong team and have the potential to go really far. Their defense is incredible and Nelson actually improved his serving 🙂 I think they're the darkest of horses.Talking about great defense, Hors Service, French champions, is another strong defensive team with less serve pressure than lot of teams, but they got 4th place in Bologna with many spectacular plays. I recommend watching them play 🙂.RDO Flix und Fertig (Lucas Christiani and Max Schartmann) got 2. place at Cologne Masters, which is a great result as the tournament was stacked. Lucas also got second place with Julian Krehle in Bologna and made it to semis in Barcelona before his partner, Jonathan Harder got injured. It's safe to say this is another really dark horse with the potential to get a podium.Next, we have Marcos/Erik from Spain. They lost in quarters in Bologna against Hors Service in a spectacular match. Another team worth watching.Moreover, we have three German teams - Ball Busters(Sören Baumann and Tim Klement), PJ Trash (Phillip König and Jonathan Harder), and Bang Chilling(Marcus Gauterin and Bo Carstensen). I think it's safe to say that any German team is dangerous and cannot be underestimated.<figure id="figure-an2j5not1lw0y4278"><img id="an2j5not1lw0y4278" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/aSz6isNkX3DWYKXtDffKmq2DbUnfe7UceR8Z4KhH2QCSqgpUtprfWYzDthBy4uio.jpg" alt="roundnet court" title="roundnet court" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: null% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Stoisser (Smile) serving to Handschmann (Nerds of Disquise) - can they make a deep run on Saturday? 📸 yellowballcult" data-positionx="null%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/aSz6isNkX3DWYKXtDffKmq2DbUnfe7UceR8Z4KhH2QCSqgpUtprfWYzDthBy4uio.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: null% 0%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Stoisser (Smile) serving to Handschmann (Nerds of Disquise) - can they make a deep run on Saturday? 📸 yellowballcult</figcaption></figure>Bachler/Beeks - Well-known team formed by two EURA board members. They have a ton of experience and great strategic thinking, Scott has a dangerous serve. However, they will probably not win, but they can rig the tournament in their favor 😈 😈 😈 😈 😈.I cannot forget to mention teams like "We're faking the hobbits back to Isengard (Bermejo Pasetti/ Y. Vandaele), Le Spiko de Familia (Christensen/Søvndal), Smile (Milton/Stoisser), Seriál Chillers (Dudine/Zanelatto), Nerds in Disguise (Jindra/Handschmann) and probably more.Also, team Goggles (Prelich/Hanisch) won't win the roundnet tournament, but they will get you in goggles. So watch out for them.<a data-mce-href="https://www.youtube.com/@European_Roundnet_Association" href="https://www.youtube.com/@European_Roundnet_Association">European Roundnet Association (EURA)</a> shall be streaming on their YouTube channel AAAAAAAAnd a massive comeback of <a data-mce-href="https://www.twitch.tv/tops_roundnet" href="https://www.twitch.tv/tops_roundnet">TOPS Roundnet</a> on Twitch! Scores can be <a data-mce-href="https://fwango.io/etsleuven2024" href="https://fwango.io/etsleuven2024">followed here - on Fwango</a>.Read the Women's Pro Preview <a data-mce-href="https://futureroundnet.org/blog/spike-and-thrive--an-epic-ets-in-leuven--belgium---women-s-pro" href="https://futureroundnet.org/blog/spike-and-thrive--an-epic-ets-in-leuven--belgium---women-s-pro" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">here</a>.

ETS Leaven Men's Pro Preview

<h2>Spike and Thrive: An Epic ETS Preview in Leuven, Belgium</h2>Roundnet enthusiasts from all over the world will gather in<a data-mce-href="https://fwango.io/etsleuven2024" href="https://fwango.io/etsleuven2024"> Leuven, Belgium</a> for an unforgettable weekend of intense competition and camaraderie from May 11th to 12th, 2024. The third ETS roundnet tournament will showcase the very best of this rapidly growing sport. With teams from different countries set to showcase their skills, the event promises to be a true celebration of athleticism and sportsmanship.Written by M. Leybourne<h3>Women's Pro</h3>The women’s Roundnet Pro division has been full of surprises, interesting mashups, and exhilarating games – and only 2 ETS have passed so far…Recognizable is that Women’s Roundnet as a whole has stepped up the game – Not only the increasing number of fixed international teams make the competition more interesting: but also the serve-pressure and the athleticism have immensely increased, making the sport more and more attractive to watch.<figure id="figure-gvafsqngjlvy2kqnm"><img id="gvafsqngjlvy2kqnm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/f1RiQgSZb1eF8sNrMxEba71G9mR7btOLLWIjATlLMyLBJX3ZTBDeP6HAzXm3KqSC.jpg" alt="roundnet tournament serve receive coach" title="roundnet tournament serve receive coach" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 55%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="A. Peusch (GER) focused on serve receiving 📸 yellowballcult" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="55%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/f1RiQgSZb1eF8sNrMxEba71G9mR7btOLLWIjATlLMyLBJX3ZTBDeP6HAzXm3KqSC.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 55%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">A. Peusch (GER) focused on serve receiving 📸 yellowballcult</figcaption></figure>Doubtless favorites are Nova – the international combo of Ines Paysan (FRA) and Laura Kunzelmann (CH). Having won the first ETS of the season in Barcelona (in 3 against Tiramisu) and the prestige Invitational in Cologne (in 3 against Patatas Bravas - Lorenz/Knauf) the two of them are brimming with confidence. For sure the blend of French energy and incredible Swiss power will once again be hard to stop.<h3>Friendly Rivalries and Sportsmanship</h3>However, there is one team that has surpassed everyone’s expectation, showing remarkable Roundnet and winning the second ETS of the season (in 2 against Tiramisu) in Bologna. Chitty Bang, the new fixed team of the season consists of Louisa Washburn (DEN) and Ronja Lorenz (GER). It’s for sure Lou’s ambidextrous playstyle and Ronja’s smart in-game overview that makes them so dangerous.<figure id="figure-l4mpvdwzdalvy2ktoi"><img id="l4mpvdwzdalvy2ktoi" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28RDR6OSKrkAQlxrRzkKqythYynJ47YBBuKNfvZUj5f4Yjo9coIbXJBijE1RkgyG.jpg" alt="roundnet players having fun" title="roundnet players having fun" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Competition comes first but there is still time for having fun 📸 yellowballcult" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/28RDR6OSKrkAQlxrRzkKqythYynJ47YBBuKNfvZUj5f4Yjo9coIbXJBijE1RkgyG.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 25%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Competition comes first but there is still time for having fun 📸 yellowballcult</figcaption></figure><h3>A rare sight</h3>A rare sight is that Tiramisu (aka. new Second Sisters) won’t be playing because Daniela Kadlec can’t come to Belgium this weekend, due to her other sports career in dodgeball, Megan Leybourne (A) will mashup with Natacha Alt (FRA) as TAPERRR. The name says it all – energy and fun. Having no pressure on their backs they for sure have a chance to challenge every other team on the court, aiming for podium.No Austrian sweets this weekend, but something salty in return – Curly Fries consisting of Alina Teskey (A) and Ines Kornek (A) will try to attack from the underdog position. &nbsp;A fixed team for as long as we can look back, mostly underestimated but capable of being the upset of every tournament.<figure id="figure-l160cle4frlvy2kwmc"><img id="l160cle4frlvy2kwmc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/240ETH3HKTDbqhuBtQaJn987KJcWGkfVpG6rVHbhanbkgc0pyt9SVr3Q27yt0DYW.jpg" alt="roundnet action hitting" title="roundnet action hitting" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Grob and Altenwegner (GER) watching Fatt (GB) cluelessly on defense - Can they make a run? 📸 yellowballcult" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/240ETH3HKTDbqhuBtQaJn987KJcWGkfVpG6rVHbhanbkgc0pyt9SVr3Q27yt0DYW.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Grob and Altenwegner (GER) watching Fatt (GB) cluelessly on defense - Can they make a run? 📸 yellowballcult</figcaption></figure>The German pendant are MRC Stadlers. Sisters, friends, and fighters: Julia and Franziska Stadler (GER). Not being able to show their best performances yet, they want to step up their game in Belgium, and everybody knows: if they are on a roll, a lot can happen just as it is with another full German team: All in. Nothing better describes the duo Nora Haas (GER) and Tina Gulden (GER) more than determination.This brings us to the team that could catch everybody off-guard – two Germans showing amazing progress and skill in the German Winterliga. Double Ding Dong consisting of the power players Julia Grob and Aylin Altenwegner – receiving those two can lead others to frustration. For sure a team to watch out for this weekend…<h3>Where to watch</h3>European Roundnet Association (EURA) shall be streaming on their <a data-mce-href="https://www.youtube.com/@European_Roundnet_Association" href="https://www.youtube.com/@European_Roundnet_Association">YouTube channel</a> AAAAAAAAnd a massive comeback of <a data-mce-href="https://www.twitch.tv/tops_roundnet" href="https://www.twitch.tv/tops_roundnet">TOPS Roundnet on Twitch</a>! Scores can be followed <a data-mce-href="https://fwango.io/etsleuven2024" href="https://fwango.io/etsleuven2024">here - on Fwango</a>.<h3>To sum up</h3>Whether you're an avid Roundnet player or simply a sports enthusiast looking for a new and exciting game to follow, keep an eye out for upcoming tournaments. Roundnet is a sport that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you craving more.<h3>Last but not least</h3>Do you want to be the first one to learn about new articles, special offers (coaching or events) and interact more with us, Future Roundnet? <a data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/FRnewslettersignup" href="https://bit.ly/FRnewslettersignup">Sign up</a> for our free newsletter <a data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/FRnewslettersignup" href="https://bit.ly/FRnewslettersignup">here</a> and don't miss another set😉.We recently developed our own <a data-mce-href="https://linktr.ee/futureroundnet" href="https://linktr.ee/futureroundnet">Roundnet Coaching App</a> coaching app - you can download it for free in the <a data-mce-href="https://apps.apple.com/de/app/roundnet-coaching/id6478408138?l=en-GB" href="https://apps.apple.com/de/app/roundnet-coaching/id6478408138?l=en-GB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">App Store</a> or <a data-mce-href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.psrgrlubbkj.pt7oghaeapp&amp;pcampaignid=web_share" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.psrgrlubbkj.pt7oghaeapp&amp;pcampaignid=web_share" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Google Play Store.</a><figure id="figure-nsko4ad04lvy3v8ki" class=""><img id="nsko4ad04lvy3v8ki" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1d7mUYsF7ESurvTq5jsnCyRYKAAn6hGRLl3lgcLc0C7H32cXfIlpO7DHuXS4KSzx.jpg" alt="Roundnet Coaching App across platforms" title="Roundnet Coaching App across platforms" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="Roundnet Coaching App" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1d7mUYsF7ESurvTq5jsnCyRYKAAn6hGRLl3lgcLc0C7H32cXfIlpO7DHuXS4KSzx.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: 50% 25%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Roundnet Coaching App</figcaption></figure>--------------------------------Join our <a data-mce-href="https://discord.gg/HJ52b7psKX" href="https://discord.gg/HJ52b7psKX" target="_blank" rel="noopener">European Roundnet Community</a> on our Discord channel, connect with players from all around Europe, and voice your opinion on roundnet-related topics.If you are enjoying our content or our work for the sport, feel free to donate some money - just <a data-mce-href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/futureroundnet?country.x=DE&amp;locale.x=de_DE" href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/futureroundnet?country.x=DE&amp;locale.x=de_DE">click here and PayPal it </a>:) We promise to invest the money into the sport of roundnet. Thank you!

Spike and Thrive: An Epic ETS in Leuven, Belgium - Women's Pro

Cover 📸 <a data-mce-href="https://roundnetandsports.smugmug.com" href="https://roundnetandsports.smugmug.com">roundnet.sports.photography - R. Schröder</a><h3>—Long read—</h3>Recent weeks have been filled with back-and-forth theories, assumptions, and some evidence in the <a data-mce-href="https://futureroundnet.org/blog/spikeball-ceo-s-letter-gets-a-response-from-brookline---here-s-what-they-said" href="https://futureroundnet.org/blog/spikeball-ceo-s-letter-gets-a-response-from-brookline---here-s-what-they-said">Spikeball Inc. vs. Brookline conflict,</a> as I informed you on our blog. A lot of people asked me about my opinion, which I withheld till I had more information. After listening to the most recent <a data-mce-href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4STn0nugRtNL5A6vWLww1T?si=b012fca4d91f4ce8" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4STn0nugRtNL5A6vWLww1T?si=b012fca4d91f4ce8">That Roundnet Podcast episode</a> with Spikeball’s CEO, Chris Ruder, I decided to break the silence.This is not a throughout analysis of the conflict. I don’t claim either aim to be an investigative journalist, even though sometimes I feel like one. For those of you familiar with my work, whether it is <a data-mce-href="https://linktr.ee/futureroundnet" href="https://linktr.ee/futureroundnet">Future Roundnet, Coaching App</a>, or <a data-mce-href="https://munichroundnet.de/" href="https://munichroundnet.de/">Munich Roundnet Club</a>, you know my motto is “Done is better than perfect.”———————————————————————————————————Important side noteThe following opinions are strictly mine and not those of Future Roundnet (FR). Indeed, I am usually the driving force behind FR but I would never be able to organize such big events as FRESH or the <a data-mce-href="https://linktr.ee/futureroundnet" href="https://linktr.ee/futureroundnet" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Roundnet Coaching App</a> without a great team around me.Honestly, it is a very delicate line between me and FR brand. I am still learning to balance it and I want to already thank the people who keep me in check, and give me valuable insights or feedback, which may hurt my ego but ultimately benefits the FR brand and thus the sport of roundnet as well. You know who you are, keep it coming ;).<figure id="figure-imoibzpxzklvcnvyo8"><iframe id="imoibzpxzklvcnvyo8" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WXRBK5XCyQw" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXRBK5XCyQw" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WXRBK5XCyQw" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>———————————————————————————————————<h3>We're back.</h3>It is difficult to know the truth and we will probably never will. However, after each conflict, there are lessons to be learned. “Jakub, after?” Yes, I strongly suggest we wrap up this conflict with this article and move on for the sake of the sport.Actions speak louder than words.Before we dive into specifics, the current conflict underlines arguably the biggest outstanding problem in roundnet worldwide:<blockquote>Dependency on one company as a main driving force.</blockquote>“But Jakub, we have our NGBs, <a data-mce-href="https://www.roundnet.eu/" href="https://www.roundnet.eu/">EURA</a>, ARF or <a data-mce-href="https://www.roundnetfederation.org/" href="https://www.roundnetfederation.org/">IRF</a>… We do so much work, we the community…” Yes, I hear you… But first, who founded the International Roundnet Federation? Who spent thousands of $US to do so? Do you think lawyers work for free?Spikeball did. <a data-mce-href="https://spikeball.eu/" href="https://spikeball.eu/">Spikeball Inc</a>. poured its heart and soul into building roundnet from the ground up. Imagine their predicament: after ten years of development, they faced a tough choice. &nbsp;On one hand, they could maintain complete control over the sport. On the other hand, they could establish a governing body with experienced individuals, some of whom might retain ties to Spikeball Inc., raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. This governing body, though potentially beneficial for the sport's long-term growth, would come at a cost: Spikeball Inc. would have to relinquish some control and even financially support the body's establishment. The decision wasn't easy – trust the unknown or invest in a potentially conflicted entity. Ultimately, Spikeball Inc. prioritized the sport's future, even if it meant sacrificing some control.Ultimately, money is power. Spikeball Inc. invests the most money in the growth of roundnet. You don't need to like it but it's a fact.So, why are we so enraged?“But Jakub, Spikeball makes money when the sport grows. More people are buying kits…”Exactly!We tend to forget that Spikeball is in a kit manufacturing business. Does Adidas grow football/soccer? Or Nike basketball? No. FIFA and FIBA do - yes, international governing bodies.You may say: “But, among many other things, FIFA or FIBA have paid, experienced professionals doing the job… they make billions of $ in revenue.” IRF or EURA are made of rather young volunteers.Exactly!Therefore, shouldn't we focus on attracting highly qualified professionals to the NGB level and securing the necessary funding to support them?Before we start coming up with excuses, just let it sink for a minute.Spikeball's success in fostering a competitive scene – the very reason you're likely reading this – hasn't necessarily translated into their biggest profit driver. Selling the roundnet kits has. <h3>Do you want to sell roundnet kits?</h3>A few years back, I was exploring the kit production business and I sought advice from a friend who's a seasoned entrepreneur. He said, “Don't do it.” A couple of months later I worked with <a data-mce-href="https://bamball.de/" href="https://bamball.de/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bamball</a>, a German kit manufacturer. They were developing a new pro set and as I listened to all the headaches (think <a data-mce-href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/mar/24/huge-container-ship-blocks-suez-canal-evergreen" href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/mar/24/huge-container-ship-blocks-suez-canal-evergreen" target="_blank" rel="noopener">stuck container ship in Suez</a>), I understood what my friend meant. I'm glad I listened. Thank you, L.!<figure id="figure-75dh7zxwrklvcmfsay"><img id="75dh7zxwrklvcmfsay" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3813r1BxqFhTrN8VTZ5EbD4Kd6Z4rci7eScofKHv5FtD3HsyJXp6yJgdtcefPcaQ.png" alt="me - Jakub, promoting a Bamball roundnet kit, property of Bamball.de" title="me - Jakub, promoting a Bamball roundnet kit, property of Bamball.de" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="me - Jakub, promoting a Bamball roundnet kit, property of Bamball.de" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3813r1BxqFhTrN8VTZ5EbD4Kd6Z4rci7eScofKHv5FtD3HsyJXp6yJgdtcefPcaQ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">me - Jakub, promoting a Bamball roundnet kit, property of Bamball.de</figcaption></figure><h3>Disaster lurking behind the corner</h3>That brings us back to Brookline vs. Spikeball situation. The first time I heard about the situation, it rang a bell in my head… What was it, aaargh!?Then I realized it once again! A couple of years ago, I was reading yet another business book - “<a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.de/Built-Sell-Creating-Business-Without/dp/1591845823/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_de_DE=ÅMÅŽÕÑ&amp;crid=20JQO62RIKLR7&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.LFEI81arnJGZWg4bEw4mP2rb5H8n0stE1pPw08F8BRQw599w7IzisdlvXU4fL8Wkr6SBgtEJ-_vlxrRS2pN3lr5nqOV0Xm3PQYfpAiVEheiLYG00PBQasKBq2CnAFT5EgjdddLmzjUWGA21Hxk_0M7D29ptj_-gtIVeS38gXIXQtyjGe5oLVW1JvUMdCgFgx7Flrs9BPqIQ64wenKbN8hQOR2vkgXoaP9mRdp7R5RVM.jQSB-0MRcYQDZxfQ8q6Uyrq9dwkrouLrehXlkkYsNNU&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=built+to+sell&amp;qid=1713616177&amp;sprefix=built+to+sell,aps,161&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.de/Built-Sell-Creating-Business-Without/dp/1591845823/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_de_DE=ÅMÅŽÕÑ&amp;crid=20JQO62RIKLR7&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.LFEI81arnJGZWg4bEw4mP2rb5H8n0stE1pPw08F8BRQw599w7IzisdlvXU4fL8Wkr6SBgtEJ-_vlxrRS2pN3lr5nqOV0Xm3PQYfpAiVEheiLYG00PBQasKBq2CnAFT5EgjdddLmzjUWGA21Hxk_0M7D29ptj_-gtIVeS38gXIXQtyjGe5oLVW1JvUMdCgFgx7Flrs9BPqIQ64wenKbN8hQOR2vkgXoaP9mRdp7R5RVM.jQSB-0MRcYQDZxfQ8q6Uyrq9dwkrouLrehXlkkYsNNU&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=built+to+sell&amp;qid=1713616177&amp;sprefix=built+to+sell,aps,161&amp;sr=8-1">Built to Sell</a>” by John Warrillow. One of the key lessons is that a business needs to make sure that no one client (supplier) makes up more than XY amount (in the book 15%) of your revenue.The higher the dependence, the greater the risk. A large client/supplier, Spikeball, holds more leverage. However, If they (Spikeball) face financial difficulties (in the podcast, Mr. Ruder mentions Spikeball's challenges in 2023), your business can be severely impacted, potentially leading to closure (Brookline).<h3>Why is it relevant for us, the roundnet world?</h3>In my view, particularly in Europe, we are heading down Brookline's path - out of business. Most people rely on Spikeball to make things happen, especially from a financial perspective.Facts: Spikeball is the main sponsor of the 2024 ETS season and Worlds 2024 in London.As Mr. Ruder admitted <a data-mce-href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4STn0nugRtNL5A6vWLww1T?si=b012fca4d91f4ce8" href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/4STn0nugRtNL5A6vWLww1T?si=b012fca4d91f4ce8" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in the podcast</a>, Spikeball could have been more present in Europe. That was a stark difference in approach of Brookline, sInce Tom Schreus had his boots on the ground throughout the entire 2023 season. Players and the community could talk to Tom at any ETS event, he was there to learn, listen, and implement suggestions. The community felt listened to and thus Tom's and Brookline's popularity soared.On the other hand, while Spikeball employees might have been present at the event, they were typically competing themselves, making them difficult to reach. The same goes for the majority of EURA board members, who played at almost every ETS event, if they happened to be on the continent while helping to run the event.Anyway, how long do we want to be dependent on one main sponsor to solve our financial problems in Europe? In comparison, <a data-mce-href="https://www.roundnetclub.koeln/" href="https://www.roundnetclub.koeln/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">1. Roundnet Club Cologne</a> just hosted a <a data-mce-href="https://playerzone.roundnetgermany.de/tournaments/309-2024-04-20-indoor-masters-koln-powered-by-yfoo" href="https://playerzone.roundnetgermany.de/tournaments/309-2024-04-20-indoor-masters-koln-powered-by-yfoo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">massive indoor tournament </a>on <a data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/Premierspike" href="https://bit.ly/Premierspike">Premier Spike nets</a>, while having <a data-mce-href="https://en.yfood.eu/" href="https://en.yfood.eu/">yfood</a>&nbsp;and <a data-mce-href="https://www.spezi-krombacher.de/" href="https://www.spezi-krombacher.de/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Krombacher Spezi</a> (beverages) as main sponsors. Once again, Germans are leading the way in innovation.Do you think <a data-mce-href="https://www.roundnetclub.koeln/" href="https://www.roundnetclub.koeln/">1. Roundnet Club Cologne</a> doesn't have enough Spikeball kits at its disposal, being the largest roundnet club in Germany. Of course they do, yet, they give a chance to other brands because they realize it is very much needed and money is not everything in the short term.I did the same with FRESH events or Mallorca Open tournaments, hosting a Revol tournament, introducing <a data-mce-href="https://bit.ly/Premierspike" href="https://bit.ly/Premierspike">Premier Spike</a> prototypes to Europe or playing on Bamball or Rashball kits.<figure id="figure-w289sjwlehlv8332s2"><img id="w289sjwlehlv8332s2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bCYy0Wd9bneYnFJyLfJ8nFfUfi5FTMsCd9hxYH7uyNLK5qWB151pir6RC2TPASHY.jpg" alt="spikeball learning" title="spikeball learning" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="J. Stachiewicz serves during an annual Revol tournament in Mallorca, Spain 📸 yellowballcult" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/bCYy0Wd9bneYnFJyLfJ8nFfUfi5FTMsCd9hxYH7uyNLK5qWB151pir6RC2TPASHY.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">J. Stachiewicz serves during an annual Revol tournament in Mallorca, Spain 📸 yellowballcult</figcaption></figure><h3>Parting thoughts</h3>On the whole, Spikeball may not be perfect but it has introduced us to the sport of roundnet. Spikeball impacted positively our lives (certainly mine) and it wouldn't hurt if we were grateful for that. They have done a pretty awesome job. Just look at the video below - roundnet is all over the world!<figure id="figure-zopwaxg90elvcnzjo2"><iframe id="zopwaxg90elvcnzjo2" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dCLVHRxBcEM" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtube.com/shorts/dCLVHRxBcEM?feature=share" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dCLVHRxBcEM" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>Once we get out of this “entitlement” mindset, that some of us have, we can make roundnet a proper sport, unless we are waiting for good things to happen to us, Good things just don’t happen - actual people make them happen!So, send money to your favorite content creator, sign up for a roundnet club, pay membership fees, which are going to be reinvested in the sport (to pay coaches for example), organize a local tournament, get paid, or just introduce your friends to the sport and have fun.If I can leave you with one thought, it is this: <blockquote>What can you do for the sport of roundnet?</blockquote>-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Let us know what you think!You can also join the<a data-mce-href="https://discord.com/invite/HJ52b7psKX" href="https://discord.com/invite/HJ52b7psKX"> European</a> or <a data-mce-href="https://discord.com/invite/xDyrvNmSsv" href="https://discord.com/invite/xDyrvNmSsv">North American Discord</a> channels to chat about it all with fellow Roundnet fanatics.If you are enjoying our content or our work for the sport, feel free to donate some money - just click <a data-mce-href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/futureroundnet?country.x=DE&amp;locale.x=de_DE" href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/futureroundnet?country.x=DE&amp;locale.x=de_DE">here and PayPal</a> it :) We promise to invest the money into the sport of roundnet. Thank you!

Future Roundnet

Blog

Roundnet Royalty Gathers in Munich: Record-Breaking Maste...

Podcast Exclusive - Laura Kunzelmann - Meet the Other Sid...

Biggest Roundnet Tournament of the Year! (so far) - ETS B...

ETS Leaven Men's Pro Preview

Spike and Thrive: An Epic ETS in Leuven, Belgium - Women'...

Navigating Conflict: How to Resolve Spikeball Disputes wi...