Bernd Schipmann

When Bernd Schipmann arrived in Fort Wayne this preseason, he didn’t just bring gloves and experience—he brought a reputation. After three memorable seasons with Forward Madison FC, the German goalkeeper had become a fan favorite in Wisconsin. Now, he’s hoping to leave the same mark with Fort Wayne FC.

“I really loved the time in Madison… great community, great people,” Schipmann said. “It just gives me a good feeling that I left a mark in the city—not only on the pitch, also off the pitch.”

For Fort Wayne, that legacy—and leadership—could be invaluable.

A Football Journey That Spans Continents

Schipmann’s path to American soccer wasn’t typical. Born and raised in Germany, he came through academy systems at clubs like VfL Osnabrück, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Schalke before carving out professional time with Holstein Kiel.

Then came a twist: a brief stint in Thailand and an unexpected training opportunity in Chicago that led him to Madison.

“My best friend played in Chicago… the goalkeeper coach knew a guy from Forward Madison, and the rest is—now I’m here in Fort Wayne.”

That winding journey gave Schipmann a global perspective—and a resilience that now defines his approach.

From Fan Favorite to Locker Room Leader

In Madison, Schipmann wasn’t just a reliable shot-stopper. He was embraced by supporters who valued his connection to the community.

Now, in Fort Wayne, he’s stepping into a veteran leadership role with a younger roster.

“Just listen to the guys… lead by behavior, be a role model,” he said. “Go early in the gym, stay later… every day matters.”

That message resonates in USL League One, where contracts are short and competition fierce.

“League One is a really tough league,” Schipmann explained. “You underestimate the travel… guys play for contracts, for food on the table. It’s really, really hard.”

Building Chemistry With a Young Fort Wayne Squad

Schipmann has only been in Fort Wayne a few weeks, but preseason has already revealed a promising culture.

“You can tell it’s a young group, but they’re really hard-working,” he said. “We do video sessions almost every day… you can see progress already.”

He sees talent—and teachability.

“The guys are really teachable… they listen, they ask questions. In the next couple weeks we’re going to be on a good track.”

For a club aiming to compete in a rugged league, that mindset could be the difference.

Anchoring the Back Line With Musa and Solis

As Fort Wayne shapes its defense, Schipmann shared a little bit about two of his center backs: James Musa and Juan Solis.

When asked about Musa’s primary position, Schipman replied, “As of right now, he’s right in front of me—center back,” settling a playful debate about where we might expect Musa to play this season.

Solis, meanwhile, left an even bigger first impression—literally.

“The first time I saw him, I thought he was a basketball player… then he stood up and I was like, ‘Whoa, this guy is tall.’”

At nearly 6-foot-8, Solis gives Fort Wayne a commanding aerial presence. Combined with Musa’s experience, Schipmann believes the defensive core has the tools to compete.

“With all the talent we have and all the work ethic we have, the sooner we adjust to the league, the better we’re going to be.”

Lessons From a Career in the Game

Schipmann has seen plenty of gifted players come and go. His biggest lesson?

Work ethic beats talent.

“I saw guys who were super talented… I thought they’d play first division in Germany,” he said. “But the guys who made it were quiet, just working… happy, but not content.”

That philosophy shapes how he mentors younger teammates.

“There are so many guys who want a pro contract… you have to be grateful and make the best of it.”

Key Takeaways

• Veteran leadership: Schipmann brings experience and professionalism from three USL seasons.

• Global journey: Germany → Thailand → Chicago → Madison → Fort Wayne.

• Defensive backbone: Fort Wayne defense is stacked with size and experience.

• Winning mindset: Hard work and gratitude over raw talent.

• Team-first mentality: Focused on mentoring a young roster.

A New Chapter in Fort Wayne

Schipmann’s story is one of persistence, adaptability, and quiet leadership. From Germany’s academies to Midwest stadiums, he’s built a career on consistency and character.

If Fort Wayne FC’s young squad can match his work ethic, they may find themselves climbing the table sooner than expected.

As Schipmann put it simply: “Every training session matters… it can end any day, so you have to make the best of it.”

🎧 Want more insight from Bernd Schipmann?

Listen to the full episode of the podcast to hear his journey, stories from Madison, and his hopes for Fort Wayne’s season ahead.