Sascha Lewandowski (5 October 1971 – 8 June 2016) was a German football coach and youth developer who worked at several clubs in Germany. He is remembered for his roles with reserve and youth teams and for brief periods managing in professional senior football. His career included a spell overseeing VfL Bochum's second team and later responsibilities at Bayer Leverkusen before a final managerial appointment at Union Berlin.
Early life and coaching beginnings
Lewandowski was born in Dortmund, West Germany, on 5 October 1971. He began his coaching career in the German club system, progressing through youth and reserve-team roles. Over time he gained a reputation for working with young players and preparing them for senior football, which brought him to the attention of professional clubs seeking to build from their academies.
Coaching career and appointments
One of his early senior posts was as head coach of VfL Bochum II; official records list his tenure there from 1 July 2006 to 31 December 2006. He later spent a significant portion of his career at Bayer Leverkusen where he held coaching responsibilities in the club’s youth and reserve setups and was involved with the senior squad in various capacities. On 1 September 2015 he was appointed head coach of 1. FC Union Berlin, a role he left on 4 March 2016 after six months in charge.
- Notable roles:
- VfL Bochum II (head coach, 2006)
- Bayer Leverkusen (youth/reserve coach; later senior-team duties)
- 1. FC Union Berlin (head coach, 2015–2016)
Coaching style and reputation
Lewandowski was generally regarded as a coach who emphasized player development and tactical preparation. Peers and commentators noted his focus on organizing teams and integrating younger players into first-team football. His work in academy and reserve teams made him a candidate for clubs looking to bridge youth systems with senior squads.
Death and legacy
Lewandowski was found dead at his home in Bochum on 9 June 2016; authorities reported that he had died the day before. His passing was reported widely in the German sports press and prompted reflections on his contribution to youth coaching and the brief periods he spent in senior team management. He remains a remembered figure among the clubs and players he helped develop.
For further information on his career and roles, see contemporary club records and profiles that document his appointments and work as a football manager and coach. Additional background and statistics are available through club histories and consolidated career summaries such as a career overview. Lewandowski was born in Dortmund and was found in Bochum, both cities in the German state of North Rhine-Westphalia.