Births on February 11

Bernd Meier, German footballer and coach (d. 2012)

Bernd Meier: A Distinguished German Goalkeeper and Football Personality

Bernd Meier, born on 11 February 1972, was a highly regarded German professional footballer whose career as a goalkeeper spanned over a decade at the highest levels of the sport. His journey in football, tragically cut short by his passing on 2 August 2012 at the age of 40, saw him leave an indelible mark on several prominent German clubs, including Borussia Dortmund and TSV 1860 Munich.

The Essential Role of a Goalkeeper in Professional Football

In the dynamic world of football, the goalkeeper holds a uniquely critical position. Unlike outfield players who are primarily involved in attacking or defensive plays across the pitch, goalkeepers are the last line of defence, tasked with preventing goals through shot-stopping, commanding their penalty area, organizing the defence, and initiating attacks. This specialized role demands exceptional reflexes, decision-making, aerial prowess, and leadership qualities. Bernd Meier embodied many of these attributes, known for his reliability and professionalism throughout his playing days.

Bernd Meier's Illustrious Professional Career

Meier's professional journey took him to several significant clubs within the German football landscape, providing him with a rich and varied experience from contending for top domestic and European honours to being a pivotal first-choice player for a number of seasons.

• TSV 1860 Munich (1991-1994): Meier began his senior professional career with TSV 1860 Munich, a traditional club based in Bavaria. During his tenure, he played a role in the club's ascent, gaining valuable experience that laid the foundation for his future successes.
• Borussia Dortmund (1994-1999): His move to Borussia Dortmund marked a significant chapter, placing him within one of Germany's elite clubs. Although primarily serving as a reliable backup to the legendary Stefan Klos, Meier was part of a golden era for BVB. During these five seasons, he contributed to two unforgettable Bundesliga titles in 1995 and 1996, the coveted UEFA Champions League triumph in 1997 – European club football's most prestigious prize – and the Intercontinental Cup later that same year. His presence in the squad during these historic victories underscores his contribution to the team's depth and success.
• Arminia Bielefeld (1999-2005): At Arminia Bielefeld, Meier truly established himself as a first-choice goalkeeper. He became a key figure for the club over six seasons, making the majority of his career appearances here. His consistent performances were crucial in helping Bielefeld navigate the challenging landscape of both the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, earning him a reputation as a dependable and dedicated professional.
• VfL Wolfsburg (2005-2007): Meier concluded his playing career with VfL Wolfsburg, where he once again took on a backup role, bringing his wealth of experience to the squad before officially retiring from professional football in 2007.

Beyond the Pitch: Coaching and Legacy

Following his retirement as a player, Bernd Meier remained deeply involved in football, transitioning into a successful career as a goalkeeping coach. His passion for the game and desire to nurture new talent led him to work with various teams, including the youth and reserve squads of his former club, TSV 1860 Munich. He was highly respected for his technical knowledge, calm demeanor, and ability to mentor aspiring young goalkeepers, sharing the insights gained from his extensive playing career. Meier's commitment to developing the next generation of footballing talent further cemented his legacy within German football.

A Sudden and Tragic Loss

Bernd Meier's untimely death on 2 August 2012, at the age of just 40, shocked the German football community. His passing left a void, not only for his family and friends but also for the many colleagues, players, and fans who had come to appreciate his dedication, professionalism, and warm personality both on and off the field. He is remembered as a talented goalkeeper, a valued teammate, and a committed coach whose contributions to the sport will not be forgotten.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bernd Meier

When was Bernd Meier born and when did he pass away?

Bernd Meier was born on 11 February 1972 and tragically passed away on 2 August 2012.

Which major clubs did Bernd Meier play for during his professional career?

Bernd Meier played for notable German clubs including TSV 1860 Munich, Borussia Dortmund, Arminia Bielefeld, and VfL Wolfsburg.

Did Bernd Meier win any major titles as a professional footballer?

Yes, during his time at Borussia Dortmund, Bernd Meier was part of the squad that won two Bundesliga titles (1995, 1996), the UEFA Champions League (1997), and the Intercontinental Cup (1997).

What role did Bernd Meier undertake after retiring from playing?

After retiring as a player in 2007, Bernd Meier transitioned into a goalkeeping coach, working with youth and reserve teams, notably for TSV 1860 Munich.