Paderborn coach Ralf Kettemann discusses personal mental health challenges

Paderborn coach Ralf Kettemann has addressed his experiences with mental strain during his coaching career. In an interview with Sport Bild magazine on September 9, 2026, the 40-year-old explained that his ascent from local amateur leagues to the Bundesliga involved significant self-taught trial and error. Kettemann described instances during his tenure at the amateur level where he felt devalued by losses and required assistance to attend matches. To manage these pressures, he sought professional guidance to reflect on his approach to the sport. Kettemann emphasized the importance of separating personal worth from match outcomes. Before joining Paderborn, Kettemann served in roles at Ilshofen, the Hoffenheim second team, and the Karlsruhe under-19 side.

• 1:03 PMYahoo Sports — New Bundesliga coach Kettemann opens up over mental health struggles