Hoffenheim coach Christian Ilzer uses bizarre motivation tactic with players
Yasmine Green
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors
Hoffenheim head coach Christian Ilzer has taken an unconventional approach to motivating his players, reportedly using a sex toy as part of a pre-match speech, Bild reports.
According to the publication, before a match against Freiburg in December, Ilzer gave a unique pep talk that left his players stunned. Dressed in a chef’s hat and apron, he theatrically pretended to be stirring a magic potion.
He explained that success on the pitch required the right "ingredients"—for spice, he held up a chili pepper, and to symbolize toughness, he shockingly pulled out a sex toy.
It’s unclear how the team reacted to the unusual speech, but Hoffenheim managed to earn a draw in that match, ending a three-game losing streak.
Despite winning just four of 17 games under Ilzer’s leadership, Hoffenheim has maintained a seven-point cushion above the relegation zone.
The club declined to comment on the story, stating that “what happens in the locker room stays in the locker room.”
