I'm packing my suitcase and taking
A glance into the pros' luggage
The second day of the training camp for the men's professional team of 1. FC Union Berlin at the adidas Home Ground went as expected: two training sessions, in the morning and in the afternoon. But what does it actually mean to really arrive at a training camp – not only physically but also mentally? It probably starts with packing the suitcase.
Move in with a System (or without)
On the day before, the team had the task of moving in, unpacking, and settling down. While a light summer rain fell outside, inside they sorted, folded, and organized – or simply packed everything away quickly.
Some players neatly arrange their shirts and pants in the wardrobe, while others prefer living out of their suitcase. And as always, it turns out that everyone brings something personal to create a piece of home away from home.
Suitcase Check: What Shouldn't Be Missing?
Today, we'll take a special look at what the players consider essential for feeling comfortable in the training camp. Because: Training is important – but the surroundings are just as important.
During the public training session in the afternoon, we first asked the traveling fans what they would have in their suitcase if they were going to the training camp as Union players.
“My own pillow – I want to be safe,” said one Unioner. Another would pack a piece of chocolate as a little reward after training. Classics like a tablet for streaming series were also mentioned – or with a grin: “A keg of beer – for the team evening, of course!”
But how close are fans and professionals in this regard? We asked Wooyeong Jeong and Diogo Leite – and got an exclusive look into their rooms.
Wooyeong Jeong presented not only training gear but also his outfits for the upcoming fan evening on Saturday. What can he not do without? His music box – he doesn't travel anywhere without it. Particularly: A small digestive drink from South Korea has also made its way into his suitcase. “I only take it when the food was really good and I’ve eaten too much – which has often been the case here so far,” said the 25-year-old with a smile. And there’s also a little surprise for the team – which Jeong is keeping strictly confidential.
Diogo Leite, on the other hand, opts for a good mix: In addition to training clothes and a tablet for series nights, there’s also a Bible on his bedside table – “I look things up in it from time to time.” Furthermore, the Portuguese has packed his self-mixed perfume in his toiletry bag – a small luxury he doesn't want to do without in the training camp. For optimal recovery, recovery boots are also ready in his room to loosen the muscles and keep him fit for the next sessions.
In the end, it remains: Whether with a Bible or a keg of beer – the main thing is that you feel comfortable.
Double Dose of Work
Amidst all the personal details, the sporting aspect remained the focus, of course. In two intensive sessions, they worked on game principles in buildup – with many position changes, close communication, and clear processes.
Even during the public training in front of 180 fans, they worked with high intensity. In several smaller game formats and a HIT block (High Intensity Training), the players were pushed to their limits again.
The direction is right – and at the latest during the joint dinner, it becomes clear: Even though everyone has their own suitcase, they are a team on the way.
Quote of the day: "Smells good, doesn't it?", asks Diogo Leite about his perfume scent, but received only a telling smile in return from the social media manager.
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