Patrick Wiencek, the 35-year-old pivot for THW Kiel, has announced his retirement from professional handball, concluding a remarkable career that includes a Champions League victory and multiple national titles. After his farewell match on July 25, he will transition to a new role within the club, taking on responsibilities previously held by Sabine Holdorf-Schust. Wiencek, who represented Germany 159 times, aims to contribute his expertise off the court while THW Kiel continues to pursue additional titles this season.
Patrick Wiencek to Conclude His Handball Journey
This summer marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in the world of handball as Patrick Wiencek announces his retirement. The 35-year-old pivot from THW Kiel shared this news on Thursday, revealing he will continue to support the club in a different capacity.
“Making this decision was one of the toughest challenges of my life, but I am relieved to have reached it and am excited about what lies ahead,” Wiencek expressed. “A significant journey is concluding, and it’s time to put my handball shoes away.” His contract with the legendary club will conclude this summer, as the team gears up for the 2025/26 season with players like Hendrik Pekeler, Petter Överby, and newcomer Veron Nacinovic.
Transitioning to a New Role at THW Kiel
Although stepping away from the court, Wiencek will transition to the club’s office, taking on new responsibilities following his farewell match scheduled for July 25. “Being a realist, I understand that time is not on my side. It was necessary to consider my next steps carefully. I have chosen to focus on my future beyond the playing field,” he remarked.
In his new role, Wiencek is set to represent THW Kiel while also taking on some of the duties previously managed by Sabine Holdorf-Schust, who will gradually step back from operational tasks at the club.
Since joining the “Zebras” in 2012, affectionately nicknamed “Bamm-Bamm,” Wiencek has made a significant impact. His accolades include a Champions League victory in 2020, six German championship titles, and four DHB Cups. He boasts an impressive record of 1,507 goals in 631 matches for the esteemed Förde club, and in 2018, he was honored as Germany’s Handball Player of the Year.
Hailing from Duisburg, Wiencek began his career at his local club, MSV, and represented the national team 159 times between 2009 and 2022, netting 316 goals. His crowning achievement with the German squad was capturing a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, although he missed the European Championship title that same year due to injury. He also served as captain of the national team at various points in his career.
“Patrick’s contributions to our successes as a player are immeasurable; he truly embodies the spirit of THW Kiel. We are thrilled that he will channel his passion and expertise into a new role following his retirement,” stated THW managing director Viktor Szilagyi.
Wiencek emphasized, “My involvement has always been driven by passion and heart, making this decision incredibly challenging. I owe so much to handball, my teammates, and the fans.” With the season still underway, he is determined to give his all, as there are three titles still within reach for him and THW Kiel. Currently positioned fourth in the Bundesliga, the team is just two points shy of leaders MT Melsungen and is set to compete in the Final Four of the DHB Cup in April, in addition to the quarter-finals of the European League.