Breckmann makes history with Karlsruhe move
Monday, March 1, 2010
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At the tender age of 18, Faroe Islands forward Mona Breckmann has become the country's first women's footballer to sign for a club on the European mainland.
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Teenager Mona Breckmann has become the first female footballer from the Faroe Islands to sign a contract with a club on the European mainland after joining German side Karlsruher SC in January.
It was a historic move for the 18-year-old striker, who is already established in the national team, and for Faroese women's football, with the only possible precedent being goalkeeper Randi Wardum's spell with Valur Reykjavík in Iceland several years ago. Iceland, however, is outside mainland Europe.
Despite her youth, Breckmann made her international debut on 25 October 2008, and two days later scored a hat-trick in a 6-2 Faroe Islands victory over Luxembourg in a UEFA mini-tournament.
National coach Alvur Hansen said of the prodigy: "Mona is a strong forward – quick, strong and with a powerful shot. But, most importantly, she has the right attitude. Mona is a role model for other Faroese footballers." Nor does Hansen harbour any doubts about the benefits of Faroese players signing for foreign clubs.
Breckmann's transfer came about after Karlsruhe scouts spotted her in action for the Faroe Islands Under-19s. After a successful trial in the south-west German city, she was offered a contract – initially for six months.
Back home, the forward played for AB Argir, who finished the 2009 season as league runners-up and cup winners. Karlsruhe's women play in the third division in Germany.