Story added: 21st July 2022

"The guys and girls loved him, and from that moment he became a firm favourite"

The Community Sports Foundation wishes Christoph Zimmermann all the best for the future, following his move to German side SV Darmstadt 98.

During Zimmermann’s five-year spell with the Canaries, he was the recipient of the Club’s PFA Community Champion award three times. The award, which goes to one player each season, recognises outstanding community and charitable efforts.

The centre-back was a familiar face with participants on the Foundation’s programmes, particularly those on our disability courses, whom he formed a close bond with.

Darren Hunter, the Foundation’s Disability Development Manager, first met Zimmermann back in 2017. He said:

“When Christoph first moved to Norwich, he lived nearby to our facility at Carrow Park, which is right next to the stadium.

“One afternoon, following a media appearance at the stadium, he popped his head into the disability team’s office and introduced himself. We got chatting about how he was settling in Norfolk, the differences between Germany and England, and more on what we did at the Foundation and who we work with.”

“After that, Christoph would often stop by our office on a Thursday afternoon for a cup of tea (always green!) and a catch-up. He was particularly interested in our disability programmes, so we invited him down to come and watch a session in action.”

Darren continued: “The guys and girls loved him, and from that moment on he became a firm favourite and a regular visitor to our sessions.”

“One time back in 2018, after helping to keep a clean sheet in a victory over Middlesbrough, he came over to visit the young participants in our disability matchday club at Carrow Park. Having just watched him play, it was amazing for them to be able to spend time with him so soon after the final whistle.”

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Zimmermann helped support the club’s efforts to support the community, helping deliver food and medical packages to vulnerable local residents. He also stayed connected with our disability participants, enjoying Zoom quizzes and catchups.

Alongside Christoph’s work with our disability programmes, he also visited local schools, met young and old participants on our Premier League Kicks and Extra Time programmes, and helped support Norwich City Fans’ Social Club events.

Darren said: “We’ll all really miss him. He’s been an incredible ambassador for the club in the community, and a perfect role model for our young participants.”

Everyone at the Foundation wishes Christoph and his family all the best in the next chapter. We’ll be following his progress closely and are looking forward to welcoming him back to Norwich for visits!