German Sabrina Witmann made history by becoming the first coach in the history of men's football teams in her country, following her appointment as interim coach for the "Ingolstadt" team in the third division. According to German media, Witmann replaces Michael Köllner until the end of the current season, having previously coached the Ingolstadt under-19 team.
Witmann stated, "There is no place I'd rather start my coaching career than Ingolstadt. It is special to me; it is my hometown club. I started here 19 years ago as a player and took my first steps in coaching here."
Witmann was enthusiastic and energetic during her first training session with the team on Thursday, and her first match is scheduled for next Sunday against Waldhof Mannheim.
Dietmar Beiersdorfer, the club's sporting director, commented: "Sabrina Witmann knows our club better than anyone else. As the coach of our successful under-19 team, she has developed significantly over the past few years, both personally and professionally, and is highly respected by everyone at the club."
It is not known whether Sabrina will take on the position permanently next season, as Ingolstadt currently sits in 11th place in the third division, which is the lowest in the professional leagues.
Ivo Grilck, a club official, mentioned the possibility of Witmann staying in her role longer: "It would be a mistake to rule that out; we are open to all options." He added, "She has the opportunity to experience professional football and understand things for three and a half weeks; she can continue to develop. We are not afraid, and the team will follow her path. We have a strong belief in her."
Last year, Marie-Louise Eta was appointed as the first assistant coach in the history of the Bundesliga when she took on that role at Union Berlin, but so far, no woman has held a head coaching position in any team within Germany's professional leagues.
