“96 Skills” is a groundbreaking school subject tailored for aspiring football players at the Hannover 96 Academy, co-developed by TWIN.
The journey from youth football to the elite level is long and demanding. At the Hannover 96 Academy, this pathway is clearly defined through the club’s vision, “Der 96-Weg”, which helps young talents grow, develop, and ultimately make the leap to the first team, all while pursuing their education. A key component of Der 96-Weg is “Plan A”, a concept developed with guidance from TWIN.
Since its gradual implementation in 2021, Plan A has focused on fostering personal development for both players and support staff, as well as improving the systemic performance of the dual career environment. This environment encompasses the football academy, the school, and the boarding school — all essential elements working together to support the athletes.
A novel blend
TWIN recently spent two productive days at Hannover 96, furthering their ongoing collaboration with the club’s academy and KGS Hemmingen, a German Elite School of Football. The main goal of this visit was to further develop 96 Skills, a novel school subject designed to promote the holistic development of young players.
TWIN Founder & CEO Wolfgang Stockinger worked closely with the academy’s directors, coaching staff, teachers, and other key stakeholders to fine-tune the 96 Skills curriculum, which is currently in its first-year test phase at KGS Hemmingen. This pioneering course, unique in German football, combines personal development, athlete-specific off-pitch training, and schooling education to ensure players aged 15-18 receive a well-rounded experience. Delivered as part of the school’s regular curriculum, 96 Skills equips young players with the tools they need for growth — both on the field and in their personal lives.
As part of the two-day visit, Wolfgang Stockinger facilitated a Master Class for Hannover 96’s football coaches. He also delivered a special guest lesson for the young players at KGS Hemmingen, offering them a hands-on look at what 96 Skills entails.
“At TWIN, our goal is to help build sustainable athlete development models that go beyond sport. 96 Skills is a perfect example of how high-level football and education can innovate and align based on a shared vision. It is fantastic to work with Hannover 96 and KGS Hemmingen to bring this concept to life.”
Wolfgang Stockinger
Founder & CEO, TWIN
