GTO Hosts Charity Soccer Tournament with 16 German Companies to Support Children for a Good Cause

TAIPEI, Taiwan –On April 28th (Friday), the German Trade Office hosted the first "GTO German Company Charity Soccer Tournament - Play for Those Who Can’t" in Taipei. This event was co-organized by the Department of Sports, Taipei City Government, A Star Academy, and participated by 16 well-known German companies. Through the universally beloved sport of soccer, the event aimed to promote corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the spirit of teamwork for a good cause. Tianmu United emerged as the champions and scored the most goals in this competition. Bosch Taiwan and Siemens came second and third respectively. A total of more than NT$430,000 was raised during the event through the "donate NT$1,500 for every goal scored" rule. The money was handed over to the "Disabled Children’s Rights and Advocacy Association in Taiwan" so that their social inclusion would receive more attention from all walks of life.

Mr. Axel Limberg, Chief Representative and Executive Director of the German Trade Office Taipei emphasized that the GTO soccer tournament "is an excellent opportunity to bring people of different backgrounds in Taiwan together through sports activities and to inspire more positive CSR actions." The opening ceremony of this event featured special guests Mr. Wang Hong Shiang, Director of the Department of Sports for the Taipei City Government, Ms. Shu-Chuan Cheng, Chairperson of the Disabled Children’s Rights and Advocacy Association in Taiwan (DCRAAT), and representatives of participating German companies.

"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.”

Volkswagen Group Taiwan

“For Volkswagen Group Taiwan, it is a privilege to support children and to be able to positively impact the Taiwanese society.”

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.