At onetwo, we have always been deeply invested in the cultural landscape that surrounds football and its vibrant micro-communities. Being based in Berlin offers us the unique advantage of being surrounded by a diverse creative ecosystem. This has allowed us to connect the dots with some of the most inspiring individuals in the industry, it happens to be on shoot together or during particular events — people who are pushing the boundaries of what football culture can be. One such connection we’ve long admired is the team behind "WE BALL." based out Düsseldorf. Their passion project blends grassroots football with creativity, style, and purpose in a way that’s simply magnetic. Finally, we had the chance to sit down with the masterminds behind it: founder Marco Michalzik (@easypeasy), creative director Florian Braun (@braunibaer), and photographer Niko Klinkhammer (@niko.klinkhammer). Here’s what we learned.

Hey guys thanks a lot for taking the time. What inspired you to organize this 5v5 grassroots event, and what message do you want to convey to participants and spectators?

Marco: "At a young age, a couple of friends and I would play football on indoor pitches during the holidays. The atmosphere was different from outdoor football — it felt intimate, raw, and intense. As we grew older, it became harder to organize these sessions since many of my friends moved away for university. But during Christmas, everyone came back home. So, in 2019, I took the chance to revive that tradition. That’s how WE BALL started. It’s now a yearly event just before Christmas, and every year, we support ‘Regenbogenland,’ a children’s hospice in Düsseldorf, with donations and proceeds.

But this year, we’re going bigger. It’s no longer just a football tournament — it’s a community event. It’s about football, but also about the people, the stories, and the culture around it. We’re bringing 120 footballers together to compete, but just as important are the stories off the pitch. These stories have the power to influence and evolve football culture in Germany.”

How does this event reflect the values and culture of grassroots football in Germany?

Marco: "In football, everyone wants to win. It’s universal, whether you’re playing in the Champions League or at your local sports ground. But grassroots football is more than just competition — it’s about community. The lower the level, the more vital that community aspect becomes. With WE BALL, we want to celebrate that. We want to show that football isn’t just about winning but about the bonds and stories shared on and off the pitch. Football can’t thrive without community, just like life. To have a lasting impact, you need the right people by your side, working towards a shared vision.”

What differentiates your 5v5 event from other similar tournaments happening right now?

Marco: "Recently, there’s been a rise in small-sided football formats, like Icon League or Kings League, often driven by big commercial interests. We’re not against that — those projects have their place — but we’re doing something different. WE BALL is driven by community, culture, and creativity. We’re not chasing algorithms or trends. Our goal is to bridge on-pitch football with the off-pitch culture that surrounds it. This isn’t about following the hype; it’s about shaping football culture with intention. Our impact may be smaller in reach, but it’s more authentic."

Is there a particular social, cultural, or creative statement you want to make with this event?

Marco: "Modern football has a problem connecting with younger generations. There’s too much noise and gimmickry. WE BALL is a return to the essence of the game — raw, real football. We’re keeping it simple. No gimmicks. No over-complication. Just community, emotion, and unity on and off the pitch. We’re bringing people together for the love of the game, not for spectacle’s sake."

In recent years, Germany has seen a surge in the rise of creator-driven leagues and less traditional football tournaments, such as the Icon League, Baller League, and soon the arrival of the Kings League in Germany. Have any of these emerging formats influenced your approach or inspired certain elements of your tournament?

Florian: "No, not really. For us, it’s all about following our creative vision. We’re not making content for algorithms or short-term trends. Our goal is to feed minds, not feeds. We focus on storytelling and visual identity that resonates with us and with those who love football the way we do. It’s about telling football-driven stories that inspire and stand the test of time."

Have you collaborated with other creators or organizations running similar tournaments?

Florian: "Not directly with other tournaments, but we’ve built a strong creative circle in the sports industry. Videographers, photographers, friends, and creatives all come together under the WE BALL umbrella. Collaboration is key. The goal is to work together to create something greater than the sum of its parts.”

What playful or unexpected elements set your event apart from other 5v5 tournaments?

Marco: "We’re not just a football tournament. WE BALL is a full cultural experience. Of course, the games are played raw and real — no gimmicks on the pitch. But off the pitch? That’s where we shine. Vintage jersey exhibitions, gaming areas, photo exhibitions, and even a barbershop on site. We’re curating an experience that appeals to players and spectators alike."

How do you balance competition with a fun, community-driven atmosphere?

Marco: "We make it clear from the start that WE BALL is about fair play and community. Yes, everyone wants to win, but that’s not the only goal here. The real goal is to celebrate football and its culture. Win or lose, the experience itself is what matters most."

How do you involve the local community — both players and spectators?

Florian: "This year, WE BALL is being held in our hometown, Düsseldorf. We’re making sure that local businesses, creators, and communities are part of the event. From location partners to event agencies to photographers, it’s all about keeping it local. Our charity support for ‘Regenbogenland’ is also a nod to our city’s community. Supporting local kids and families is what matters most."

Are there partnerships or collaborations that contribute to the event’s energy?

Florian: "Absolutely. This year, we’re working with photographers like Max Galys, Jacques Zaunbrecher, and Tom Kieslich to produce limited-edition prints inspired by the Euros in Germany. We’re also collaborating with JW Studios on footwear exhibitions and Daquaro, one of the city’s top barbers, who’ll be on-site offering fresh cuts. It’s about creating a fully immersive football experience."

What’s next for WE BALL? Are there plans to expand the event?

Marco: "Düsseldorf is our home base, and it will always be our heart. But by 2025, we want to bring WE BALL to other cities in Germany. The dream is to tie our event format to some of the biggest moments in German football. There’s a lot of potential to grow, and we’re ready to take it one step at a time.”

With their clear vision, authentic values, and unmatched passion, WE BALL is more than a tournament — it’s a movement. We thank the guys for their time and we can’t wait to witness WE BALL first event.

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