Borussia Dortmund have been lauded by Michael Heselschwerdt, head of UEFA's club competitions, who sent a letter to BVB youth coordinator Lars Ricken to thank the club's delegation for the example it set during the UEFA Youth League play-off away to Maccabi Haifa.

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"You set an example for other clubs. We value your exemplary commitment and outstanding dedication," read the letter. Among other things, the spirit and purpose of the Youth League is to "develop and support players" – a task that BVB carries out in a highly commendable manner.

The members of Borussia's travelling delegation commanded great respect while in Israel as "amazing ambassadors for the club and the city of Dortmund". This was because, prior to departure, they had expressed a wish to accompany the Maccabi team for a visit to the Beit Terezin memorial, in which the football league that once existed in the Jewish ghetto of Theresienstadt is commemorated. During their stay in Israel the team also attended a banquet together with players and officials of Maccabi Haifa once the tie was over. (wiwi)