Kurt Russ starts a new attempt: Turbine Potsdam before the start of training!

Kurt Russ starts a new attempt: Turbine Potsdam before the start of training!

A new era is on the horizon for the 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam. Kurt Russ, the 60-year-old Austrian coach, returns to the club after a turbulent period to turn things around following relegation from the 1st Bundesliga. On Monday, June 23, 2025, he will lead the team for the first training session and thus have the chance to bring a breath of fresh air into the club's structures. Loud maz online However, Russ will not make his return without conditions: “A lot has to change,” he said about the challenges that lie ahead.

The situation is tense. 15 players have left the club and external newcomers have so far been in short supply. During the preparation for the 2025/26 second division season, Russ will monitor up to six potential new talents. Two to three players are already close to signing a contract. Particularly pleasing: Lucia Stritzke (17) and Marike Dommasch (18) have signed their first professional contracts, which could bring a breath of fresh air to the team.

A critical eye

“I will watch closely in the first few days of training and look for reinforcements in all parts of the team,” announced Russ. He makes it clear that he sees the neglect of young talent in recent years as a major problem. Those responsible at the club are aware of this and are relying on Russ to turn things around. Club president Karsten Ritter-Lang expects a noticeable increase in performance and individual development of the players. Expectations are high and the pressure is increasing.

Bianca Schmidt, who has already shone as European champion, is also expected to take on a leadership role in the team. Your experience will be crucial in the coming months. Emilie Bernhardt has extended her commitment to the club and will also be an important support in the newly formed team. The season in the 2nd women's Bundesliga began on the weekend of August 23, 2025 and will be a first test for Potsdam.

A look outside the box

The challenges are not just internal. German women's football as a whole is faced with the task of improving visibility and structures. In December 2021, the DFB Executive Board launched the “Women in Football FF27” strategy, which serves as the basis for action in female football. Among other things, the number of active players and coaches is to be increased by 25 percent and the media reach of women's football is to be doubled. These projects can also benefit the Turbine Potsdam team in the long term in order to get back into the upper ranks and strive for titles. Those interested can find further information about the strategy on the website DFB.

Russ, who previously led training at the Austrian third division club ASKÖ Oedt, will play a key role in the new season not only as a coach, but also as a pioneer. With his extensive experience from 262 games in the Austrian Bundesliga and as a coach in various leagues, he has the right qualifications to get the team back on the road to success. The first steps towards this will soon be taken in Potsdam - the newly formed team can expect an exciting and challenging time.