Hoffenheim implements maternity protection in football: shielding expectant mothers. - Protective measures implemented by Hoffenheim football club for pregnant women
TSG Hoffenheim Makes a Statement in German Football by Extending Contracts for Pregnant Players
TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, a renowned team in German women's football, is making headlines with a groundbreaking move. They are now offering contract extensions to their players in the event of pregnancy during the final year of their contracts. This move is hailed as a significant stride in favor of the compatibility of professional sports and family life, the club announced.
Under this new policy, a player's contract will automatically be prolonged for at least another year with the same financial conditions if she becomes pregnant. This provision aims to provide players with peace of mind, allowing them to balance their careers and personal lives.
Ralf Zwanziger, the head of women's and girls' football at TSG, explained, "Given the increasing number of professional female footballers who decide to start a family during their active careers, this step is a logical choice for us as a club."
Similar measures have been implemented in the USA, Italy, and Norway, including collective agreements and subsidies for childcare. Markus Schuetz, TSG's business manager, commented, "We are closing the gap between FIFA guidelines, DFB implementations, and the current working reality of female footballers with this regulation."
Almuth Schult, a former national goalkeeper and Olympic champion, welcomed the club's decision. As a member of the initiative "FUSSBALL KANN MEHR", she said, "I am delighted that a German club like TSG Hoffenheim has finally taken this initiative. As a mother, I know the importance of stable professional support during this life-changing phase."
The move by TSG 1899 Hoffenheim comes as an increasing number of professional sports teams and organizations around the world are developing maternity protection policies for pregnant athletes. These initiatives aim to ensure that pregnant athletes receive adequate leave, healthcare, and support for a smooth return to play, setting new standards across global sports.
In the sphere of EC countries' football, this new policy by TSG 1899 Hoffenheim could stimulate vocational training and career advancement for female athletes, as they now have the assurance of job security during pregnancy. Moreover, the club's commitment to health-and-wellness and family life balance might foster a culture where sports, science, and wellness intertwine, inspiring generations of athletes in various domains, such as football, science, and sports.
