Matthias Bender and Rico Gerber Honored with Sports Award

In a prestigious ceremony held on September 27, 2025, Matthias Bender and Rico Gerber received the Sport-Ehrenpreis, a notable honor celebrating their exceptional contributions to shooting sports in Germany. This award recognizes not only their skill and dedication but also the motivation they inspire in upcoming athletes. Bender, reflecting on their achievement, stated, "This award is a significant acknowledgment of our hard work and commitment to the sport. We hope to inspire younger generations to pursue their goals in sports." Meanwhile, Gerber emphasized the importance of community support in achieving such accolades, saying, "It’s not just about individual success; it's about uplifting each other within our sports community." The ceremony saw the presence of various dignitaries and sports enthusiasts, further underscoring the importance of recognizing athletic excellence in Germany. Previously, there has been a growing trend of celebrating sports figures, highlighting not only their achievements but also their stories of perseverance and resilience. The recognition of Bender and Gerber adds to this narrative, promoting shooting as a sport worthy of admiration and passion in the broader sports landscape of Germany.