Introduction
Marten Glotzbach may not be a household name globally, but within the world of Dutch football and sports education, he holds a respected position. Best known as the husband of Sarina Wiegman—one of the most successful women’s football coaches in history—Marten is also an accomplished football coach and economics teacher with a decades-long career in education and sport development.
While much of the spotlight shines on Sarina for her historic achievements with the England Women’s National Team and the Netherlands, Marten has quietly played an instrumental role in football development, youth coaching, and academic mentorship. His story represents a unique blend of teaching, coaching, and supporting women in sport, making him a significant figure in his own right.
Early Life and Educational Background
Born in The Hague, Netherlands, Marten Glotzbach developed an interest in both education and sport early in life. He pursued a career path that balanced academic rigor with athletic passion.
In 1994, Marten earned a degree in marketing and commerce, and by 2006, he had expanded his credentials in economics. His qualifications led him to a long-term teaching role at Sebroek College, where he taught economics for over two decades. His students remember him as a thoughtful educator with a knack for relating economic theory to everyday life.
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Coaching Career in Dutch Football
In parallel with his teaching, Marten built a substantial coaching resume in the Dutch football scene. His passion for the sport led him to work as a youth trainer and coordinator for HBS Craeyenhout, a football club in The Hague. Here, he spent nearly ten years nurturing talent and refining his skills as a coach.
Later, Marten served as head coach for several regional football clubs, including SVV Scheveningen, RKVV Westlandia, and SC Monster. He also coached youth teams at ADO Den Haag, including the under-16 and under-17 girls’ teams, where he contributed to developing the next generation of Dutch female footballers.
In 2024, he was appointed head coach of the ADO Den Haag women’s first team, solidifying his place in top-level women’s football coaching.
Personal Life and Relationship with Sarina Wiegman
Marten Glotzbach is married to Sarina Wiegman, a former professional footballer and the current manager of the England Women’s National Football Team. The couple has been together for many years and shares two daughters: Sacha and Lauren.
Though Sarina’s coaching career brought international fame, Marten has consistently supported her behind the scenes—managing the home front, advising on football matters, and providing emotional balance in their relationship. Their partnership is often described as mutually empowering, with each contributing to the other’s professional success.
Interestingly, Marten even coached his daughter Lauren at ADO Den Haag, blending his roles as both a father and a football mentor.
Contribution to Women’s Football Development
Marten Glotzbach’s involvement in women’s football goes beyond coaching. By leading youth teams and later a women’s first team, he has helped raise the standard of training, professionalism, and tactical education in the Dutch women’s game.
He brings an educator’s mindset to the pitch, emphasizing structured learning, mental discipline, and team development. His teaching background has allowed him to approach football coaching with a clear focus on progression and long-term success rather than short-term wins.
His career aligns with a broader movement advocating for gender equality in sport, where male coaches play constructive roles in growing and supporting women’s teams without dominating the narrative.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Build a Career Like Marten Glotzbach
If you’re inspired by Marten’s dual role in education and football, here’s a clear path to follow:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Obtain a relevant degree
Start with studies in economics, sports management, or teaching—this forms your academic foundation. - Pursue teaching or coaching certification
Get licensed as an educator or attend coaching clinics from accredited football organizations. - Start with youth programs
Volunteer or work as a trainer at local clubs to gain experience with young athletes. - Build a dual career
Balance coaching roles with part-time or full-time teaching positions to support personal growth and income. - Join larger clubs and networks
Move into more competitive coaching roles at clubs with strong development systems. - Focus on leadership in women’s football
Seek positions that promote growth and inclusivity in the women’s game.
Tips:
- Maintain work-life balance, especially if coaching family members.
- Use your academic knowledge to bring structure to your coaching style.
- Advocate for female participation and support at all levels of football.
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Conclusion
Marten Glotzbach embodies the strength of quiet leadership. While his wife Sarina Wiegman commands headlines with groundbreaking coaching milestones, Marten’s own contributions to football coaching, education, and family life are no less impactful. His story is a valuable reminder that success doesn’t always require center stage—it can also be found in the mentorship, patience, and support behind the scenes.
From classrooms to football fields, Marten’s life reflects a balance of intellect, dedication, and humility. For aspiring coaches and educators, his journey offers a blueprint for purpose-driven work that bridges sport and scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is Marten Glotzbach?
Marten Glotzbach is a Dutch football coach and former economics teacher, best known as the husband of Sarina Wiegman, head coach of the England Women’s National Team.
Q2: What football teams has Marten coached?
He has coached youth and women’s teams at clubs such as HBS, SVV Scheveningen, SC Monster, and ADO Den Haag, where he currently leads the women’s first team.
Q3: What is Marten Glotzbach’s educational background?
He holds a degree in marketing and commerce (1994) and studied economics, teaching the subject for over 20 years.
Q4: How is Marten involved in women’s football?
He’s actively coached girls’ and women’s teams and supports the development of the women’s game through inclusive and education-based coaching methods.
Q5: Do Marten and Sarina Wiegman have children?
Yes, they have two daughters, Sacha and Lauren, and have chosen to keep their family life mostly private.
