Imke Wübbenhorst’s journey reflects her transformation from a stylish life in Bern to embracing motherhood while coaching the YB women’s football team. After welcoming her son, she faced challenges balancing family and her career but returned to coaching after maternity leave, leading her team to victory. Wübbenhorst, a trailblazer for women in sports, advocates for supportive policies for mothers in football, determined to inspire future generations while navigating her dual roles.
Imke Wübbenhorst: A New Chapter in Life and Career
When Imke Wübbenhorst made her way to Bern three summers ago, she arrived with just a few suitcases and her beloved Dalmatian. Driving a sleek Mercedes Cabriolet C-Class with stylish black rims, she exuded confidence, sporting cool sunglasses and having her dog comfortably seated in the passenger seat. A fan of elegant cars, she embraced her chic lifestyle.
Recently, Wübbenhorst reached out to friends back in Cloppenburg to share some exciting news: she had traded in her Mercedes for a new family-friendly Opel Zafira minivan. Her friends were taken aback, jokingly asking, “Who are you and what have you done with our friend?” This lighthearted banter reflects the remarkable transformation in her life.
Balancing Motherhood and Coaching
Since December 6, Wübbenhorst has embraced motherhood, welcoming a son while living with her partner and his two teenage sons in a cozy home just outside Bern. She made the decision to move from her one-room apartment near the train station, but the transition hasn’t been easy. With her newborn struggling with a cold, Wübbenhorst finds herself in a whirlwind of sleepless nights and new responsibilities, with her mother visiting from East Frisia to assist with childcare.
Despite the challenges of motherhood, Wübbenhorst continues to thrive in her role as the coach of the YB women’s team, which recently triumphed in the championship qualification phase. After a 14-week maternity leave, she made her much-anticipated return to the field for a thrilling match against GC, where her team celebrated a narrow victory in front of a record crowd of 10,647 spectators at Wankdorf Stadium. The emotional moment was a testament to her dedication and resilience.
In Switzerland, the idea of a female football coach taking a break for maternity is relatively rare, with only three out of ten top league clubs led by women. Wübbenhorst acknowledges the prevailing mindset in football, where many believe they are irreplaceable. She highlights the challenges of delegating responsibilities and the risks involved, especially when the deputy might excel in their role.
Rolf Kirchhofer, the representative and sports director of the women’s department, stepped in during her absence and managed to secure wins in all five games, maintaining Wübbenhorst’s approach. This smooth transition showcased the strength of teamwork and adaptability, further boosting her confidence as a leader.
Wübbenhorst has always been a trailblazer, being the first woman to coach a men’s team in a higher league in Germany back in 2019. Her journey has been marked by moments of frustration and triumph. She recalls a time when she faced ridiculous questions about her professionalism, asserting, “I am a professional. I set up according to tail length.” While she never aimed to be a role model, her path has inadvertently empowered many women in sports.
Her candid personality often catches people off guard, as seen during a memorable television interview where she criticized the playing style of a rival team. Though she quickly apologized for her passionate remarks, the impact of her words resonated with many, illustrating her unique approach to coaching in a traditionally conservative environment.
As Wübbenhorst navigates her dual roles as a mother and a coach, she remains committed to her passion for football. She appreciates the support from YB, which allows her the flexibility to manage her responsibilities as a new parent while pursuing her career. Although she had intended to wean her baby by now, she finds joy in continuing to breastfeed, demonstrating her adaptability in this new chapter of life.
Wübbenhorst’s story reflects the evolving landscape of women’s football, where more players are choosing to start families during their careers. Clubs and associations are beginning to recognize the need for supportive policies, with some considering measures to protect players’ contracts during maternity leave. As she continues her journey, Wübbenhorst is determined to balance the demands of motherhood and coaching, knowing that her experiences can inspire future generations of female athletes.
As she faces the challenges ahead, Wübbenhorst remains focused on her passion for coaching while cherishing her role as a mother. The path forward may be uncertain, but her determination and resilience shine through, paving the way for a brighter future in women’s sports.