Anniversary of Robert Enke's death

"I believe that everything in life has a meaning" - Robert Enke

On 10^th November 2009, football fans were searching for that meaning and not only in Hannover. They were searching because our goalkeeper, captain and role model had taken his own life. It was news that shocked the football community in Europe. The 32-year old seemed to be at the peak of his career at club level and several pundits considered him the favourite to Germany's starting goalkeeper in South Africa during the World Cup. Up until then, anyone who had met him, regardless of the circumstances, would have described him as a strong, friendly, modest and sympathetic individual. Friends, fans and colleagues a like knew nothing of his internal sufferings and the effect they were having on him. That day the word depression not only possessed a new meaning for many people, but it also put a new face to the illness. Robert Enke suffered from the serious illness for years and had received treatment in the past, but at the end, it ultimately left him feeling like he had no other way out than to take his own life.  

When you think back to last year and the days that followed 10^th November, there are several pictures that were seen the world over that will have stayed in the memories of many. For Germany the events were an unprecedented outpouring of support and sympathy. The seas of candles in front of the AWD-Arena, the scarves, autographed photos, kits and gloves all bore one name: Robert Enke. However, the sad memories are not the only that stuck with us. After difficult spells with both FC Barcelona and Fenerbahçe it was here in Hannover that Enke made his biggest contribution. Whether it was his world class saves or his incredible ability to put off the opposing striker. There were often moments when everyone thought the ball was in the back of the net, only for Enke to defy everyone and deny the goal scoring chance. We also remember the happier moments, when he made time to spend with the fans, signing autographs and letting them take photos with him. Not to mention the moment he first stepped out as part of the German national squad, the whole of Hannover was overflowing with pride. Everyone knew he had deserved his spot and took a lot of joy out of seeing him step out with the golden eagle on his chest.

From the very beginning Robert Enke and Hannover 96 were a success story. When he signed for the Reds in the summer of 2004 he immediately had the backing of his teammates. He had left behind successful and unsuccessful stories from Germany and abroad. His career began in 1985 when he joined his home town club; SV Jenapharm Jena. His stint there was followed by time spent at FC Carl Zeiss Jena and Borussia Mönchengladbach in Germany, while he travelled abroad as well playing for Benfica, FC Barcelona and Fenerbahçe. It was in 2004 when he spent the beginning of the season on loan at CD Tenerife in Spain, that he began to recapture his form. Ewald Lienen, the manager at Hannover 96 at the time, was impressed with what he had seen and snapped him up the following season. From then onwards Enke performed to the best of his abilities and always gave 110%. Unfortunately that is where this tragic story ends, but one thing is for certain: Robert Enke was 96.

"I don't know whether anyone can direct their own life. But one thing I know for sure: you cannot change it." - Robert Enke

There are a lot of people who would have happily helped Robert Enke change. It is sad that he is no longer with us, but we will forever be grateful and proud, that he was part of the 96 family. The time he spent at our club has made sure his name will never be forgotten and will always be linked with Hannover 96.