Michal Winiarski has stepped down as head coach of Germany’s men’s national volleyball team with immediate effect. The Deutscher Volleyball-Verband (DVV) confirmed that the 42-year-old Polish coach is leaving his post for personal reasons.
Winiarski, who took charge in 2022 and extended his contract until 2028, informed the team and federation of his decision after realizing the growing strain of juggling his club role with Aluron CMC Warta Zawiercie and his national duties.
“The past years with the German team have been some of the most meaningful of my career,” Winiarski said. “But my family needs more of my time, and with the heavy workload and some minor health issues, I feel it’s time to take a break and recharge.”
DVV sports director Christian Dünnes called his departure “a great loss,” praising Winiarski for taking the team “to a new level” and leading them to qualify for the 2024 Olympics — Germany’s first Olympic appearance since 2012.
