Mascots have a long history in the Bundesliga, but our Attila is quite unique: the golden eagle of Eintracht Frankfurt is one of two living mascots (the other being Hennes at Cologne). The bird of prey celebrates his 14th birthday today.
A life devoted to Eintracht
Attila has been the symbol of the club for almost his entire life. In 2006, Eintracht Frankfurt decided to bring the club’s crest to life. Attila, a golden eagle born on 30 April 2004 in Coburg, made his way to Hessen where he’s been cared for by falconer Norbert Lawitschka ever since. He brings luck not just to Eintracht but also his owner. “Previously I could only go to the stadium if my wife let me, but now I have to go to every home game,” explained Lawitschka.
Preparing for third cup final
Lawitschka and Attila have become a well-functioning team. The duo have watched over 200 games together ‘arm in arm’ and they’ve even been to Berlin for the DFB Cup final on two occasions. In May they’ll be making their third trip, but before that there’s the business of the final home game of the season against Hamburg this Saturday. The 1.9-metre-wide bird will certainly be crossing his claws for Eintracht and hoping for a late birthday present of three points.
Facts on Attila
• Date of birth: 30 April 2004
• Place of birth: Coburg
• Nationality: German
• Position: Mascot
• Weight: 3.9 kg
• Wingspan: 1.9 m
• Trainer: Norbert Lawitschka
