When it comes to European football, especially women’s football, few names shine as brightly as Sarina Wiegman’s. She has guided teams to international glory and earned the admiration of fans worldwide. Yet, standing beside her – quietly, steadily, and with equal passion for the game – is Marten Glotzbach. Though not always in the media spotlight, his story is one of dedication, teaching, coaching, and contributing to the growing world of women’s football.
In this in-depth article, we’ll explore who Marten Glotzbach is, his career, personal life, and how he’s shaping modern football. We’ll also share verified facts to make this post informative and easy to rank on Google.
Early Life and Education
Marten Glotzbach was born in the Netherlands, a country known for producing some of the world’s most skilled footballers and coaches. While exact details about his birth date remain private, sources suggest he was born around 1969. Growing up in the Dutch football culture, Glotzbach’s interest in the game was sparked early – but his path took a slightly different turn than most professional players.
After finishing his early education, Marten Glotzbach pursued a degree in marketing and commerce, graduating around 1994. His education in economics gave him analytical and organizational skills that would later shape his approach to football coaching. He also undertook studies related to education and eventually became a teacher.
This combination of academic and athletic backgrounds helped Marten form a rare blend of intellect and sporting insight – traits that have become essential in modern coaching.
A Career Rooted in Education and Sports
Before stepping into full-time football coaching, Marten Glotzbach worked as a teacher and sports coordinator. He taught economics at the Segbroek College in The Hague, one of the well-known educational institutions in the Netherlands. Teaching wasn’t just a job for him – it was a way to shape young minds, encourage teamwork, and promote discipline.
At Segbroek College, Marten coordinated football programs for students, helping many young players learn the value of sportsmanship and perseverance. This experience proved invaluable, as it allowed him to bridge two worlds: education and sport. It also set the stage for his transition into professional football coaching.
Coaching Beginnings and Early Roles
Marten Glotzbach’s early coaching career began with HBS Craeyenhout, a respected local sports club in The Hague. Initially, he started as a youth trainer and coordinator, where he managed and developed young players. His work wasn’t just about tactics or drills; it focused on character-building and understanding the psychological side of football.
His strong communication skills, combined with a methodical approach, soon earned him a reputation for being both analytical and empathetic – qualities that separate good coaches from great ones. Over time, Glotzbach’s responsibilities expanded, and he became involved with several local Dutch clubs, including:
- SVV Scheveningen
- RKVV Westlandia
- SC Monster
Each role gave him deeper insights into the structures of grassroots football in the Netherlands – a system admired globally for its ability to nurture young talent.
Focus on Women’s Football
While Marten Glotzbach worked with various youth and amateur teams, his most meaningful contributions have come through women’s football. As the women’s game began to grow in both popularity and professionalism, Glotzbach became a key figure in the Netherlands’ coaching network.
He joined ADO Den Haag Vrouwen, the women’s team of ADO Den Haag, as a youth coach. Between 2018 and 2019, he trained the MO16 and MO17 (girls under-16 and under-17) teams. His coaching methods focused on skill development, discipline, and tactical understanding – essential for players transitioning to senior-level football.
His work with these young women reflected his philosophy: education and sport go hand in hand. Players under his guidance often describe him as patient, knowledgeable, and passionate about helping them reach their full potential.
Head Coach of ADO Den Haag Women’s Team
After years of dedication and consistent performance, Marten Glotzbach was appointed head coach of ADO Den Haag’s women’s senior team in December 2024. This was a major milestone in his career, marking his transition from youth development to top-tier professional coaching.
In this role, Glotzbach became responsible not just for on-field tactics but also for team management, player welfare, and long-term strategy. His appointment was met with enthusiasm by players and fans alike, as he had already built trust within the club.
Under his leadership, ADO Den Haag Women’s team aims to strengthen its position in the Eredivisie Vrouwen, the top division of Dutch women’s football. His focus remains on developing home-grown talent and promoting a disciplined, attacking style of play that mirrors the Dutch football philosophy.
The Personal Side – Husband to Sarina Wiegman
Beyond his professional achievements, Marten Glotzbach is widely known as the husband of Sarina Wiegman, the celebrated head coach of the England women’s national football team and former coach of the Netherlands women’s team.
The couple shares a deeply rooted connection through football. They met in their youth, bonded over their shared love for the game, and have been together ever since. Their marriage stands as a partnership built on mutual respect and understanding.
Together, they have two daughters – Sacha and Lauren. Both prefer to live away from the public eye, and the Glotzbach-Wiegman family is known for maintaining a low-profile private life despite Sarina’s global fame.
Marten has often been described as a pillar of support for Sarina. When she took the England job in 2021, he supported her decision wholeheartedly, even though it meant managing time between countries. His ability to balance family, teaching, and coaching responsibilities speaks volumes about his character and discipline.
Philosophy and Approach to Coaching
Marten Glotzbach’s approach to coaching reflects his educational roots. He believes that football is not only about winning but also about developing people. His sessions often combine tactical drills with lessons on teamwork, communication, and mental resilience.
Some of his key coaching principles include:
- Education before results – He encourages players to understand the game’s logic, not just follow orders.
- Team cohesion – A united team can outperform a technically superior but disconnected side.
- Focus on youth – Investing in young talent ensures long-term success.
- Work-life balance – Athletes perform better when their mental health and personal lives are respected.
This human-centric philosophy has made him popular among players, particularly young women who value an environment of trust and encouragement.
Contributions to Women’s Football in the Netherlands
Women’s football in the Netherlands has experienced massive growth over the last decade, thanks in part to figures like Sarina Wiegman and Marten Glotzbach. While Sarina took the national stage, Marten worked tirelessly at the grassroots and club levels, building a strong foundation for the future.
His efforts include:
- Developing young female athletes at ADO Den Haag’s youth system.
- Promoting academic balance, ensuring players continued their education while pursuing football.
- Creating inclusive football programs at the school and community level.
- Encouraging equal opportunities and breaking stereotypes about women’s roles in sports.
Through this work, Glotzbach has become part of a larger movement reshaping football’s culture in Europe – one that values equality, education, and empowerment.
The Quiet Strength Behind the Spotlight
Marten Glotzbach’s story is often intertwined with that of his wife, but it’s important to note that he has built an impressive career of his own. His humility, professionalism, and long-term commitment to education and football make him a unique figure.
While Sarina Wiegman leads national teams to trophies, Marten shapes future stars who may one day play for such teams. This partnership – one in the spotlight and one behind it – illustrates how success in football often depends on teamwork both on and off the field.
Why Marten Glotzbach Deserves More Recognition
- He’s a bridge between education and sports: His career shows how teaching and coaching can complement each other beautifully.
- He’s a pioneer in women’s football development: Few male coaches have invested as deeply in nurturing female talent in the Netherlands.
- He’s a mentor, not just a manager: His coaching style prioritizes growth and learning over results alone.
- He’s proof that quiet leadership works: Not all great coaches shout from the sidelines – some inspire through patience and purpose.
In short, Marten Glotzbach’s journey reflects the unsung heroes who sustain football’s growth from the ground up.
Challenges and Future Goals
Like every professional, Marten has faced challenges. Transitioning from teaching to professional football required adaptability. Coaching in women’s football – still underfunded compared to the men’s game – also presents logistical and financial difficulties.
However, his resilience and love for football continue to drive him forward. His main goals for the coming years reportedly include:
- Strengthening ADO Den Haag’s performance in the Eredivisie Vrouwen.
- Expanding youth development programs.
- Encouraging more male coaches to work in women’s football.
- Maintaining balance between professional duties and family life.
With women’s football now growing faster than ever, Marten Glotzbach’s experience and leadership could make him one of the key figures in shaping its next generation.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Marten Glotzbach?
Marten Glotzbach is a Dutch football coach, educator, and the current head coach of ADO Den Haag’s women’s team. He’s also an economics teacher and is known for his significant role in developing women’s football in the Netherlands.
2. How is Marten Glotzbach related to Sarina Wiegman?
He is married to Sarina Wiegman, the head coach of the England women’s national football team. The couple shares two daughters, Sacha and Lauren, and have supported each other’s careers throughout their marriage.
3. What teams has Marten Glotzbach coached?
He has coached several Dutch clubs, including HBS Craeyenhout, RKVV Westlandia, SC Monster, and the ADO Den Haag Vrouwen youth and senior teams. His experience spans both youth and senior women’s football.
4. What is his educational background?
Marten holds a degree in marketing and commerce (obtained in 1994) and has additional training in economics and education. He worked as a teacher at Segbroek College in The Hague, where he also coordinated football programs.
5. Why is Marten Glotzbach important in women’s football?
Because he’s one of the few male coaches who has consistently championed the development of women’s football in the Netherlands. His coaching, mentorship, and educational approach have helped many young players grow into confident professionals.
Final Thoughts
Marten Glotzbach’s life and career tell a story of quiet determination and meaningful impact. From teaching classrooms to football pitches, his influence reaches far beyond the game. He reminds us that success in sports isn’t always about fame – it’s about dedication, passion, and helping others grow.
As the women’s game continues to thrive globally, figures like Marten Glotzbach are shaping its foundation. His balance between intellect, empathy, and expertise makes him not only a respected coach but also a true ambassador for the values football should represent.
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