Schaeffler supports IAAF five-a-side event at The Hawthorns

Schaeffler fielded a strong team in the IAAF five-a-side competition at West Bromwich Albion’s stadium, The Hawthorns, in West Bromwich, UK. After a narrow loss in the final of the competition last year, Schaeffler returned with a strong side hoping to secure the trophy this year.

The squad was made up of a mix of Hereford and Birmingham office based staff, plus some of the external sales team. Schaeffler’s digital marketing guru, Tony Yates, returned as team manager, whilst territory manager, Kieran Smith was captain this time around.

Key players included product specialist, Brad Adams, warranty administrator, Jim Ridley, marketing executive, Kian Patel and sales and marketing director, Matt Selby, who made his debut as goalkeeper.

‘Schaeffler United’ joined 23 other teams gathered from all areas of the aftermarket. The tournament began with six mini-leagues of four teams, with all every team progressing to a different second stage of the competition, from ‘Shield’ to ‘Champions League’.

Schaeffler said Matt was untroubled for the first stage of the event, as the team won all four of the round-robin games with a total of 14 goals for and none against, as Kieran and Brad contributed some stunning goals. They then came up against eventual champions, ‘The LKQ Legends’, losing 2-0 in the semi-final.

Team mnager, Tony Yates, said: “We played fantastically well throughout the tournament and were pleased with our undeniable team work, but unfortunately, we came up against a very strong side in the semis.

“We did win the third place play-off, so it was a successful day overall, but it was never about winning. We had a great time at The Hawthorns and must thank the IAAF for once again putting on one of the highlights of the aftermarket sporting calendar.”