Unfortunately we have to mourn the loss of former FICEP president and honorary president of FSCF Clément Schertzinger.
As a board member, Secretary General and then President of the International Catholic Federation of Physical and Sports Education (FICEP) from 2003 to 2009, he played an active role in developing exchanges between European sports and educational movements. His bilingualism, his ability to foster dialogue and his extensive knowledge of the voluntary sector earned him widespread recognition.
With his passing, we have lost a great figure of the voluntary sector, educational sport and federation life. For more than half a century, he devoted his energy, expertise and vision to the development of associations, the FSCF and the promotion of the values they uphold.
A life shaped by commitment to the voluntary sector
Born on 24 July 1936 in Colmar, Alsace, Clément Schertzinger discovered the world of associations at a very young age within the Cercle des Sports et Loisirs de Neuf-Brisach. As an athlete, gymnast, handball player, coach and then leader, he gradually built an exemplary career founded on his unwavering commitment and sense of service. His local involvement also led him to serve as a municipal elected representative, alongside a distinguished professional career as a chartered accountant and statutory auditor.
From an early stage, he placed his skills at the service of the Avant-Garde du Rhin, where he first served as treasurer before becoming its president from 1984 to 1996. His work contributed to the development and structuring of the Alsatian voluntary sector, of which he remained one of its leading figures.
Ten years as President of the FSCF
Elected to the FSCF Board in 1990, he became President in 1992, at a time when stability, vision and the ability to bring people together were essential. During his ten-year tenure, until 2002, he supported the modernisation of the federation, encouraged the professionalisation of its structures and promoted the development of new activities. Under his leadership, new commissions were established, notably in the fields of early childhood development, hiking, performing arts and visual arts. These initiatives reflected his determination to respond to changes in society while remaining faithful to the foundations of the FSCF.
At the service of the common good
His commitment, however, extended far beyond the field of sport. As a member of the French High Council for Associative Life, a representative of the Holy See to the Council of Europe on sports-related matters, and an active member of numerous mutual, cultural and heritage organisations, notably those connected with Marbach Abbey, he consistently worked to promote civic engagement, dialogue between cultures and the role of associations in society.
The many distinctions he received bear witness to the recognition of his work, including the Gold Medal for Youth and Sports, the rank of Chevalier of the Légion d’honneur, Officer of the Order of the Crown of Belgium, Chevalier of the National Order of Madagascar and Chevalier of the Order of Saint Sylvester.
A lasting legacy
Beyond the titles he held and the responsibilities he assumed, those who knew him will above all remember a man deeply committed to human values, volunteering, the education of young people and the strength of collective action. He was a rigorous and demanding leader, but also a caring and attentive person, firmly convinced that voluntary commitment is an irreplaceable asset to our society.
The FICEP has lost one of its great servants. His legacy lives on through the projects he championed, the organisations he helped to strengthen and the generations of volunteers he inspired.
To his family, loved ones, friends and all those who shared his commitment, FICEP extends its deepest condolences and expresses its profound gratitude for his remarkable contribution.
