January is also a month of decisions at ASC 09 Dortmund. First, the departure of coach Marco Stiepermann, and now a contract extension.

ASC 09 Dortmund and goalkeeper Joel Nickel are continuing their journey together: The 22-year-old has extended his contract and will remain between the posts for the Aplerbeck team next season as well.

Nickel has been wearing the ASC 09 jersey since January 2023, when he transferred to Dortmund from Wuppertaler SV. Since the second half of the 2024–2025 season, he has been the number one goalkeeper—and has long been more than just a goalkeeper. In 51 competitive matches, he has kept 17 clean sheets and has become a key factor in the team’s defensive stability.

“Joel epitomizes our journey,” emphasizes Dennis Hübner, sporting director of ASC 09. “He has developed significantly with us, both athletically and personally; he has taken on responsibility and become a true pillar of support for the team. It’s all the more wonderful that he has decided to continue on this path with us.”

Goalkeeper coach David Ringel also highlights the Hagen native’s remarkable development: “Joel brings ambition, composure, and a strong work ethic to training. He’s taken another big step forward this season. I’m very excited to continue working with him—we’re not only retaining quality but also a great character on the team.”

Just a few days ago, ASC 09 announced the departure of its head coach, which would have taken place this summer anyway. Now it’s happening sooner.

According to the club, the duo requested the early termination of their contracts. “Marco and Justin approached us with the request to terminate their contracts effective immediately,” said Hübner. “Despite the impending separation this summer, we would have liked to finish the season together with the two of them. Unfortunately, however, that was not what they wanted.”

ASC 09 Dortmund is currently in fourth place in the Oberliga Westfalen. Next summer, Magnus Niemöller will take the helm.