On May 18, 2025, the Muhlenberg Mules delivered a commanding 41-7 victory over the Ravensburg Razorbacks in the Global Ambassadors Bowl at Zeppelin Stadium in Friedrichshafen, Germany. This historic game, the first college football game in the city, showcased the Mules’ NCAA Division III dominance and marked a pivotal moment for American football in Germany. Led by Head Coach Nate Milne, the Mules’ strong defense and cohesive teamwork overwhelmed the German Football League’s Razorbacks, electrifying the crowd and demonstrating the sport’s competitive allure. The host team, the Ravensburg Razorbacks, did an absolutely tremendous job promoting the game. Special thanks to Frank Kienzle, Ronny Rühlemann, John Gilligan, and the countless other individuals that helped to produce such an extraordinary event.
The game was absolutely incredible for the sport of American football in Germany. The enthusiastic turnout at Zeppelin Stadium and the engagement of 3,000+ local fans highlighted the sport’s rising popularity in the region. Ravensburg Razorbacks’ Head Coach John Gilligan emphasized the event’s role in elevating the game’s visibility, with the Mules’ performance inspiring local youth through a pre-game football clinic. This matchup, part of Global Football’s 29-year mission to promote the sport internationally, not only showcased high-level play but also fostered cultural exchange, leaving a lasting legacy in the region.
Beyond the gridiron, the Mules’ eight-day tour through Germany and Austria, starting May 14, 2025, was a transformative experience that blended athletic preparation with cultural immersion. The team’s journey began with an overnight flight from Newark to Munich, arriving on May 15. In Munich, they explored the vibrant city center, followed by an orientation walking tour and dinner at the historic Augustiner Keller. On May 16, a guided tour of Munich’s landmarks and a somber visit to the Dachau memorial provided historical context, while dinner at Hirsch Garten offered a taste of Bavarian culture.
On May 17, the Mules traveled to Dornbirn, Austria, stopping to visit the picturesque Hohenschwangau Castle. That evening, they ascended via the Pfänderbahn gondola for a scenic dinner at Berghaus Pfänder, staying at the Four Points by Sheraton Panoramahaus. Game day on May 18 included a pre-game meal, team meetings, and a football clinic for local youth before the dominant performance at Zeppelin Stadium, followed by a post-game meal at the stadium restaurant. The team then traveled to Innsbruck, checking into the AC Hotel by Marriott for a buffet dinner.
In Innsbruck on May 19, the Mules visited the iconic Bergisel ski jump park and took a guided tour of the city, capped by dinner at the Hard Rock Café. On May 20, they journeyed to Vienna via Salzburg, where they enjoyed an orientation walk before settling into the Courtyard by Marriott Vienna Prater.
The final full day in Vienna on May 21 included a guided city tour, a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace gardens, and an evening at the Prater Amusement Park, highlighted by a ride on the Giant Ferris Wheel and dinner at Kolarik’s Luftburg. The team returned to Newark on May 22, concluding a trip that strengthened team bonds and cultural appreciation.
This tour, meticulously planned with cultural and athletic milestones, not only better prepared the Mules for their upcoming season, but also deepened their global perspective. The combination of competitive success and immersive experiences set a strong foundation for their 2025 season while contributing to the growing enthusiasm for American football in Germany.
