On the field, German handball players make no distinction between old and young. In addition, the age difference of up to 16 years is only noticeable when they take naps and carry balls.
In addition to the playing field, the distribution of roles in the DHB team is clear: “I don’t carry the ball bag anymore, I don’t bother with the ice case anymore”was the clear announcement from captain Antje Döll, to which she added: “I also wear things sometimes, but if a Nieke Kühne is standing next to me, then well…” A full 16 years separate 37-year-old Döll from the youngest, 21-year-old Nieke Kühne.
She shares the “ball office”, which is traditionally given to the youngest in handball teams, with 22-year-old Nina Engel. “That’s completely ok too”Engel said calmly at the media event on Saturday, “It’s clear that they have a little more to say to those who are more experienced and older.”
As clear as the hierarchy is when it comes to the distribution of tasks off the pitch, things are different on the field. “We are a very homogeneous structure, even when generations come together”said Julia Maidhof, who at 27 years old is pretty much in the middle between the young and old teams. “On the field, it doesn’t matter how old someone is or how many caps someone has.”
Youngster on a long leash
The second World Cup game against Uruguay showed that this is the case. Seven goals from 21-year-old Nieke Kühne, seven goals from 22-year-old Nina Engel. The boys lead the way, take responsibility, dare to do something. “We feel in great hands as boys”says angel, “I have the feeling that the responsibility is distributed really well. That everyone just wants to do their job. And that’s what makes us strong, that when one person can’t do it, the other jumps into the fray.”
“Of course they want to take advantage of their opportunity. They put 100 percent into the action without having to worry.”the captain praised the hard work and ambition: “They’re not afraid to go an extra session, they analyze their performance and have developed a certain level of self-confidence.” The “old people” give the young people a lot of freedom, not least because they know about the immense quality of Engel and co.
Mixture should bring success
“And then we have our experienced players who lead the way and lead the team.”Döll explained the distribution of roles, “And then we also say, now we have to put the brakes on, now we need more head in the actions.”
Leadership that the young embrace. “I’m happy that I can learn from such players”says angel, “They radiate a certain calm, bring experience and that helps you stay calm.” This mixture is the key to success for Döll: “The fact that we approach the games this way gives me courage for all the tasks that still await us.”
Next opponent: Serbia
The next task is on Sunday (November 30th, 6 p.m.) in the last preliminary round game against Serbia. There the Germans want to win the group with a win and create the best conditions for the main round taking place in Dortmund. In preparation for this, everyone gets involved and pulls together. There are no differences between young and old. With one exception: “Antje like this sometimes takes a little longer nap than others”Nina Engel revealed with a laugh.