Sabrina Wittmann: Pioneer in German professional football

A historic milestone

Thiago Calderaro

Sabrina Wittmann: Pioneer in German professional football

Sabrina Wittmann has made history by becoming the first female head coach of a men's team in German professional football. As the head coach of FC Ingolstadt, she has ushered in a new era and taken on a pioneering role that extends far beyond the football pitch.

Early Beginnings and Passion for Football

Born and raised in Ingolstadt, Wittmann began her football career at FC Ingolstadt, where she has been active for 19 years. As the U19 coach of the Schanzer, she made a name for herself, leading the team to second place in the A-Junioren-Bundesliga Süd/Südwest. These successes laid the foundation for her further career.

"There is no place I would have preferred to debut. Ingolstadt is very special to me, my hometown club." – Sabrina Wittmann

The Historic Promotion

After the dismissal of head coach Michael Köllner, Wittmann took the reins at the third-division club FC Ingolstadt. The club’s management decided to give the talented coach the chance to lead the team. This decision marks a turning point in German football, as Wittmann is the first woman to be fully responsible for coaching a men's professional team.

"If Sabrina were male, everything would be fine, and it wouldn't be exciting. But we focus on quality, not gender." – Ivo Grlic, FC Ingolstadt Sporting Director

Challenges and Expectations

With her commitment, Wittmann has taken on not only sporting but also societal responsibilities. She is aware of the role model function she now holds and wants to pave the way for other women.

"I believe that it is at a point where you can and should take on this pioneering role. I feel fully ready for it." – Sabrina Wittmann

Former national player and coach Inka Grings also spoke positively about Wittmann's new position:

"Sabrina will master her role; she knows the team. I am thrilled that the club is focusing on quality and giving an internal coach the chance to develop and advance." – Inka Grings

A New Path in German Football

Wittmann's appointment shows that a change is taking place in German football. So far, only a few women like Grings and Imke Wübbenhorst have held coaching positions with men's teams in the lower leagues. Wittmann, on the other hand, is now responsible for a team in one of the top three German leagues.

Sporting Director Ivo Grlic praised her direct and authentic manner as well as her talent. He emphasized that Wittmann has known the club's players for many years and has already imparted her style to them in a short time. This closeness and deep understanding of the club are crucial factors for her success.

A Role Model and Trailblazer

Wittmann wants to convince primarily through her work on the pitch. She emphasizes that it is less about talking and more about actions. She sees her task not only in achieving sporting successes but also in serving as a role model for future generations of female coaches.

"It is important to pave the way; but less with talking, more with doing." – Sabrina Wittmann

With her firm conviction and commitment, Wittmann has already inspired many people. The positive response from the football world shows that her path is supported by many. In addition to congratulations from her own club, she received numerous messages from other clubs and the DFB.

The Future of Sabrina Wittmann

Wittmann is full of enthusiasm and cannot wait to get back on the pitch. Her long-term goal is for her work and sporting successes to be the focus. She hopes that the hype around her will soon subside and the attention will be directed towards football.

"I hope that in a year we will be sitting here talking about sporting matters." – Sabrina Wittmann

Sabrina Wittmann's story is an inspiring example of how passion, talent, and perseverance can pave the way to new heights. Her appointment as head coach is a significant step for German football and a strong signal for equality and diversity in sports.