Tabea Sellner of VfL Wolfsburg made a remarkable return to soccer five months after becoming a mother, scoring a goal in her comeback match. Celebrated for her contributions, she advocates for better support for pregnant athletes and mothers in sports. Despite facing challenges and limited playing time, Sellner emphasizes the importance of structures for balancing motherhood and athletics. She expresses hope for more opportunities in 2024 and aims to inspire others through her journey.
Tabea Sellner’s Inspiring Comeback Journey
In April, Tabea Sellner of VfL Wolfsburg embraced motherhood, and just over five months later, she celebrated her triumphant return to the pitch by scoring a goal in her first match back. As 2023 comes to a close, the 28-year-old is not only ready to celebrate her achievements but is also eager for more playing time and advocates for enhanced support for pregnant athletes and mothers within the league.
A Fairytale Moment on the Field
In late September, a local newspaper hailed a ‘VfL fairytale’ when Sellner netted a crucial goal in the Champions League qualification match against Florence, sealing a stunning 5-0 victory. The striker, who had been substituted in just nine minutes prior, was ecstatic. ‘I could hardly believe it was real. Oh, wow!’ Sellner expressed in an interview. ‘It was wonderful to see how genuinely happy my teammates were for me, and I had the chance to thank everyone,’ including the dedicated physiotherapists who supported her throughout her pregnancy and the comeback process.
Reflecting on the pre-game atmosphere in the locker room, Sellner noted, ‘It’s astonishing how something you’ve practiced for years can feel both so ordinary and remarkably special.’
Despite this success, Sellner’s journey has not been without challenges. Three months post her fairy tale moment, she has only made one appearance in the Bundesliga against Potsdam, where she played for just half an hour. ‘I still have my ambitions and want to be on the field. I’ve put in a lot of hard work and hope to showcase my skills,’ she stated, boasting 135 Bundesliga appearances and 48 goals.
The Road to Recovery and Future Aspirations
Sellner’s swift return to training during the summer break has drawn admiration, but it required significant effort. ‘When I first started jumping, I felt like everything was going to fall apart,’ she laughed, acknowledging the importance of a stable pelvic floor and the dedication required to regain fitness. ‘It’s crucial to listen to your body and not rush the process, a lesson I’ve learned as a competitive athlete.’
She aims to inspire others, emphasizing, ‘Very few athletes balance motherhood with their careers. However, despite some hurdles and her current dissatisfaction with playing time, Sellner insists, ‘I would do it all again. Support is essential, and structures need to be improved in Germany. Proactive initiatives are necessary, but I don’t feel like I’m facing closed doors at VfL.’
Her husband has taken parental leave to assist with their son during her comeback, even accompanying them to training camps. ‘The club allows me to bring my son on away trips, and I hope this leads to better structures for future players. It would be fantastic if not every athlete had to restart their journey after becoming a mother.’ She also advocates for improved childcare solutions, urging the need for a balance between what can be demanded from clubs and what they can provide. ‘I believe we are already engaging in meaningful discussions that will lead to positive changes.’
Looking ahead, Sellner hopes that coach Tommy Stroot will give her more opportunities to play after the winter break. ‘It’s wonderful to see my comeback taking shape, and I’m eager for more playing time to complete this journey.’ Despite the challenges, she has found a new sense of patience and tranquility, largely due to motherhood. ‘I’ve changed significantly this year,’ Sellner concludes, reflecting on her unique experiences.
As 2024 unfolds, the world of sports continues to evolve, with figures like Angelique Kerber stepping back from competition to embrace motherhood, while new talents like the 25-year-old golfer from Friesland, who made history with an Olympic medal, are poised to make their mark.