VfL Bochum is one of the oldest sports organizations in the world, claiming an origin date of 26 July 1848 when an article in the Märkischer Sprecher – a local newspaper – called for the creation of a gymnastics club.

The club was reorganized in May 1904 as Turnverein zu Bochum, gegründet 1848 and formed a football department on 31 January 1911.

[1][2][3] As World War II progressed, play throughout Germany became increasingly difficult due to player shortages, travel problems and damage to football fields from Allied bombing raids.

[vague] Although they fielded competitive sides, they had the misfortune[tone] of playing in the same division as Schalke 04, which was the dominant team of the era.

[citation needed] VfL won the division title in 1953 to advance to the Oberliga West for a single season.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

][citation needed] It was built in the 1970s on the traditional ground of TuS Bochum 08 at the Castroper Straße, north of the city centre.