"Return of prioritizing performance may lead to reduction in police force numbers."
For a week, Germany's been all about the soccer craze. The Euro 2020 atmosphere's electric, the matches are intense. On Thursday night, North Rhine-Westphalia's Interior Minister, Herbert Reul, appeared on Markus Lanz on ZDF. And he's got a wish.
Reul's buzzing. Although he's not a professional soccer player, the soccer buzz has hit him. He didn't expect that on Thursday night, the Spanish team would win via an own goal. "I thought the Spaniards would score their own goals," says Reul after the game on Markus Lanz on ZDF.
Reul's happy about the positive vibe at the Euro 2020. "People got lots of problems," Reul realizes. "But I believe: It's amazing that there's now such a vibe. 'Cause things ain't gonna get better, not from today to tomorrow. But if that leads overall to the willingness to reflect on a few things that are also important, and if it has something to do with community and also with celebrating together, and not just the world's problems to see, then I find that a real win."
The National Team as a Role Model
National coach Julian Nagelsmann's managed to create a real team, recognizes Reul. Many could learn from that. Teamwork means following the rules. Rules are essential for living together. Reul: "There's nothing better than team sports. That's priceless. That's better than any school."
At the same time, one can learn from the National Team's performance that it's not a problem to perform. On the contrary: "That's fun. And when that comes back into fashion, I can tell you: I can save a few cops."
It's a mistake to see performance as an insignificant part of human coexistence. It's also a mistake to believe that keeping rules isn't necessary. It's also a mistake not to learn how to handle defeats. With a particular focus on young people, Reul says: "Many can't handle that anymore, and then they get upset, and then I got people on the street who tell me: If I don't get my way, I'll pull a knife."
Therefore, it's Reul's opinion that more young people should be into team sports. "Sports as a team offers a better chance than sitting at home and surfing the computer."
The direction society's heading, especially in children's education, is wrong, says Reul. Changing that, however, is not difficult. "Our future are the children and young people. And we have to lead them differently," is Reul's conclusion.
Read also:
In the midst of soccer enthusiasm during the European Championships, North Rhine-Westphalia's Interior Minister, Herbert Reul, mentioned his wish for the European Football Championship 2024 to be held in Germany. (Reul's wish for the 2024 Championship)
Markus Lanz, a renowned German television presenter, hosted Reul on his popular talk show, providing a platform for the minister to discuss various topics, including the positive impact of soccer events on society. (Reul's appearance on Markus Lanz's talk show)
