Hanno Balitsch

Balitsch was born in Alsbach-Hähnlein. In the 1999–2000 season, he transferred from his first team FC Alsbach to SV Waldhof Mannheim. In 2001–02 he moved to 1. FC Köln. Rapid development with the team and consistent first team performances brought him to Bayer 04 Leverkusen for €2 million. However, he was unable to assert himself within international competition. He saw the opportunity to move to a newly promoted team, FSV Mainz 05, where he moved during the 2004–05 season, and found form amongst the first team. The top league once again beckoned, and the former German Under-21 international moved to Hannover 96. On 29 May 2010, Balitsch returned to his former club Bayer 04 Leverkusen, signing a two-year deal. He retired from the professional stage after more than 400 first and second level matches in 2016.

He has made one appearance for the Germany national team, coming on as a substitute in a friendly against Spain on 12 February 2003 in Palma de Mallorca.