"Our soccer tournament was inspired by the soccer matches
we held during our annual CSR Day, which brings German companies to the schools
in rural areas to share sustainable practices and share the joy of
sports," stated Mr. Limberg. He further emphasized, "We were amazed
by the enthusiasm and passion of both the students and local communities, which
motivated us to find more ways to support them and play for those who cannot
partake. This event embodies the spirit of unity and compassion for a good
cause." The GTO has been fostering Taiwan-Germany business relations and
promoting CSR practices through various events for over 40 years. Through the
soccer tournament, the GTO hopes to showcase the positive impact of German CSR
efforts in Taiwan.
The charity soccer tournament consisted of indoor 5-a-side soccer matches, with each match lasting 15 minutes. All participating players were from German companies, and for every goal scored by a team, it would donate NT$1,500 to the “Disabled Children’s Rights and Advocacy Association in Taiwan”. Parents, children, and enthusiastic members of the Disabled Children's Rights and Advocacy Association in Taiwan also came to watch the game. Ms. Shu-Chuan Cheng, Chairperson of the association said: "Thanks to the organizers and the DCRAAT for creating an inclusive environment and achieving cultural equity for children with disabilities."
Voices from the Field: Insights
from the Teams at the Tournament
Bayer
“This match-up is not only
important for Bayer Taiwan, but also a great opportunity to advocate the equal
rights for disabled children for the first time!”
Bosch
“Bosch Taiwan has been committed to assuming social
responsibility. Therefore, we are honored to participate in this charity event
to give back to Taiwanese society. “(Mr. Andreas Schmidt, Chairman and Managing
Director of Bosch Taiwan)
DEKRA
“Soccer
games need to maintain high acuity, professionalism, and teamwork, just like
DEKRA maintains high professionalism, innovative spirit, and team service in
the TIC industry.” (Mr.
Aaron Lee, Managing Director of DEKRA Taiwan)
Kärcher
“Soccer
is a symbol of the German national spirit, which can also enhance Kärcher’s
brand awareness, corporate image, and cultivate our team spirit. Sports are
like a common language that brings us closer to each other.”
Merck Taiwan
“Merck is honored to
participate in the GTO soccer tournament event to support vulnerable children
in our community.” (Dr. John Lee,
Managing Director of Merck Group in Taiwan)
SUSS MicroTec
“This soccer charity tournament provides SUSS
MicroTec employees the chance to show and foster teamwork skills.”
TÜV Rheinland
"This sport event ignites our passion to be
ready for action – sweating and cheering for life!"
TRUMPF
“This
year marks the 100th anniversary of TRUMPF. We will continue to participate in charity
events to give back to society and demonstrate our commitment to Taiwan.”
List of teams participating in the 1st GTO
German Company Charity Soccer Tournament:
Bayer Taiwan, Bosch Taiwan, DEKRA, ENERCON Taiwan, Evonik, Gandi.net, Kärcher, Merck Taiwan, RWE Renewables Taiwan, Siemens, SUSS MicroTec, Tianmu United, TRUMPF, TÜV Rheinland, TÜV SÜD, Volkswagen Group Taiwan.