ELF champion checks in at Wrocław! Ben Wenzler joins the Panthers Wrocław!

German cornerback Ben Wenzler is set to bolster the Panthers Wrocław defense for the 2026 season!

The 25-year-old defender began his American football journey in 2013 with the Stuttgart Scorpions. He honed his skills with the club until 2020, with a one-year hiatus in 2017 to attend high school in the United States. As he recalls, playing for Alma High School in Michigan was a valuable lesson that showed him just how fast-paced football can be at the highest level in the States. He made his senior debut in the GFL while still with the Scorpions, but in 2021, he decided to join the Stuttgart Surge in the European League of Football.

During his time with the Surge, he experienced both highs and lows, but over the years, he established himself not only as a starter but as one of the team's key leaders. Last season, he was a vital component of the Stuttgart squad on their way to the ELF championship. His vast experience—despite his young age—will undoubtedly be a major asset to the Panthers' defense in the upcoming AFLE campaign.

You started your American football journey with the Stuttgart Scorpions, but you also had the chance to play at an American high school. How do you look back on that experience?

I look back on my high school experience as a big impact on my football career. I learned a lot and worked really hard during that time and got way better. It also showed me how fast the sport is in the States so I had to adapt to it.

How would you describe your playing style as a cornerback to someone who has never seen you in action?

My playing style is pretty agressive and smart! I always try to get my hands on the ball and to create big plays. And I really like to hit people, something unusuall for some cornerbacks.

After winning the championship with the Stuttgart Surge, what convinced you to continue your career with Panthers Wrocław?

I had good and long talks with the Wroclaw Panthers, and their organisation and their stability convinced me. I believe that we‘re building something special here and that we can have success!

What are your expectations regarding the Panthers organization and the atmosphere at the Olympic Stadium compared to your previous experiences in the ELF?

My expectations are to be in a good surrounding where football is the priority and everything is taken care off so we can focus on playing football. Also I really like the Panthers Stadium and have good memories from playing there.

Have you already had a chance to speak with Coach Dave Likins about your role in the Panthers' defense for the upcoming season?

Yes, I talked about my role in the defense with Coach Likins. I fully trust his system and I‘m excited to learn from him. He told me that he might move me around a bit, and I‘m excited for that challenge and would like to contribute to this defense in any way I can.

What are the most valuable lessons you took from last year’s championship season that you’d like to share with your new teammates in Wrocław?

The most important lessons are that you always have to play together as a team and trust the guys around you. Also the preparation is key. The more you watch tape and study their plays the better you are ready for what's coming.

What is it like joining a new team as a reigning champion? Do you feel any extra pressure to immediately step up as a leader in the defensive backs unit?

No, I don't feel extra pressure. I‘m going to prepare the same as I did the years before and just give everything I have. Of course I want the guys around me to do the same so we can prepare together with good communication to play as a unit!

What are your main individual and team goals for this year? Do you believe the Panthers have the potential to become the first AFLE champion?

The team goal is clear. We want to turn some heads in the AFLE and get to that Championship Game. I think the Panthers have everything to make that a reality! My individual goals are to continue to play on the highest level and get even better than last year. I want to work hard and catch 5 picks again.

How do you plan to spend your first few weeks in Poland off the field? Is there anything specific you’d like to see or try in Wrocław?

I want to walk around the city and explore it. I want to see the buildings and the big market square and get to know their culture.I don't know a lot about the city so I‘m open for some recommendations.

Wrocław fans are considered some of the most dedicated in Europe. Do you have a message for them ahead of your debut in the Panthers colors?

Yeah Panthers fans: I‘m excited to be a Panther and let's fill the stadium like crazy, because this year is going to be special!